To detect potential issues, homeowners must regularly conduct roof inspections. Addressing problems early stops them from becoming huge and costly repairs. Additionally, regular checks are important due to warranty compliance. Some roofing material warranties need periodic inspections to ensure they remain valid. These warranties help you save money when there is a defect.
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All You Need To Know About Roof Inspection
Regular roof maintenance can improve your home value by enhancing its curb appeal and ensuring energy efficiency while also reducing cooling and heating costs. Below, we will explore various aspects of the cost of roof inspections to enable you to get the right information that allows you to make an informed decision regarding roof inspection costs. Let’s begin.
Types of Roof Inspections
With the advancement of technology, roof inspections are now more comprehensive, as experts can now perform closer and more thorough inspections. Some of these kinds of roof inspections include
- Infrared Inspection
This method is used to determine what goes on under your roof. Here, the expert roofer uses infrared technology to see problems or issues that cannot be spotted by the naked eye. This is the most expensive type of roof inspection.
However, its major advantage is that it provides a thorough review of your roof and allows experts to see signs that cannot be spotted otherwise. It usually costs anywhere from $400 to $600.
- Drone Inspections
With a drone, roofers can take a closer look at the roof from the air and other angles. By utilizing a camera-equipped drone to fly around your home, roofers record all the footage of the surface. After observing the house, the professional evaluates the video and makes recommendations on repairs that might be needed. Usually, the cost of drone roof inspections can vary depending on the location and the company. However, it can range from $150 to $400.
- Physical Inspection
This is the traditional method of inspections where professional contractors climb up a ladder to properly examine your roof. Physical inspections usually cost anywhere from $75 to $200. The price can vary based on your roof size and other factors such as the number of stories you have and the roof slope.
What Affects the Costs of Roof Inspection?
You may wonder how much does a roof inspection cost. The answer to this question can depend on various factors. Let’s discuss some of them below:
The Roof Material
- The various types of materials such as metal, tile, or asphalt often require specialized inspection equipment or techniques.
- For example, certain materials have specific issues that need roofers to have a profound understanding of the materials which can affect the total cost of the inspection.
- The Experience of the roofer or inspector
- Usually, a very experienced roofer or inspector brings useful skills and knowledge to the inspection process that allows them to find out possible problems.
- With their expertise, they can make precise assessments. However, this can also result in a high fee since their services are usually in demand.
- The size of your roof or its complexity
- A large or more complex roof design usually needs more effort and time for a detailed inspection. This is because inspections must carefully check its features and potential hazards.
- The need for a thorough evaluation and increased labor usually adds to the costs for the inspection process.
When Is a Roof Inspection Required?
Roof inspections are crucial for every homeowner to keep their home in good condition, secure, and safe. They are required to be performed regularly, but when exactly do you need to perform one? Let’s find out below:
Your roof age
- Roofs wear out with time, and while a roof can last long, they must be frequently maintained to ensure they remain in good condition.
- If your roof is getting old, ensure to contact a local inspector for inspection.
- Severe weather conditions
- Roofs are usually the first defense against weather elements. These weather elements such as storms often cause damage, warping, or wear and tear to your roof.
- If you reside in an environment with severe weather conditions, then you should opt for regular inspections.
- Home purchase or sale
- When you intend to buy or sell your home, ensure to conduct a roof inspection. Doing this can tell you if your roof is in good condition or requires repair.
- Additionally, you can assess its structural integrity. When problems are discovered by potential buyers, they can use this information during the negotiation of the final sale price and the contract time.
Choosing Between Professional Roof Inspections or DIY
Many individuals are often tempted to inspect their roofs themselves. However, professional inspections are recommended. There are various reasons for this. Firstly, professionals are properly equipped to do the job. They also have the required experience.
Additionally, they have the tools and knowledge to properly identify problems that an untrained individual cannot see or overlook. Lastly, they are very thorough. As professionals, they leave no stone unturned. This ensures they don’t overlook any potential issues.
While DIY inspections can save you money, they might not offer the same level of reliability and accuracy as professionals.
What Happens During A Roof Inspection
Knowing what you should expect during roof inspections helps you prepare. Usually, the process involves visual and structural inspection, and then a detailed report. In the visual inspection process, the roofer rigorously examines the surface of the roof. Here, they check for visible damages like signs of wear and tear, cracks, or missing shingles.
During the structural inspections, the roofer checks the roof’s structure and areas, such as support beams and attic spaces, looking for structural wear, moisture intrusion, and signs of damage. With this evaluation, the inspector makes sure there are no issues with the underlying framework and that it can support the roof’s weight.
Lastly, after the roof inspection, the inspection provides you with a comprehensive report that shows the problems found. It usually includes pictures and descriptions of the damage. The report usually contains maintenance tips and repair recommendations that can help you address the issue and ensure your roof’s integrity.
Endnote
Performing frequent roof inspections is a crucial part of maintaining your home and making sure your roof remains in good condition and protects your home from potential damage. While the cost of roof inspections is based on several factors, the benefits outweigh its costs as it allows you to save more in the long term, increase the lifespan of your roof and provide peace of mind.
