What Do Roof Inspectors Look For?

Roof inspections are one of the most important maintenance tasks for homeowners and businesses, especially in a place like Fraser, MI, where the weather can be unpredictable. With harsh winters that bring heavy snow, ice, and wind, along with spring rains and summer storms, your roof takes a beating throughout the year. These weather conditions can cause damage that, if left unchecked, might lead to severe issues like leaks, structural damage, and even mold growth inside your home.

In this guide, Select Renovations will walk you through what roof inspectors look for, how different roofs impact the inspection, and what you can expect from the inspection process. We’ll also cover costs and how to choose the right roof inspector in Fraser, MI. So let’s dive into the details of protecting your roof from the elements!

What is a Roof Inspection?

A roof inspection is an essential check-up for your home’s roofing system. Think of it like taking your car to the mechanic for a tune-up — except this check-up happens on top of your house. Roof inspectors examine the condition of your roof to spot any signs of wear, tear, or damage. Regular roof inspections help homeowners like you stay ahead of any issues before they become costly repairs.

When you live in a place like Fraser, MI, where the weather can be unpredictable, with hail, snow, and high winds, keeping your roof in good shape is a must. A simple problem like a missing shingle can turn into a roof leak that damages your home if it’s not caught early. So whether you’re a DIY homeowner or planning to hire a pro, understanding what roof inspectors look for can save you time and money.

If you want to know more details, check out our ultimate roof inspection checklist before you get started!

What Do Roof Inspectors Look For?

When we come to your home, we focus on two main areas: the exterior and the interior. This will determine whether your house needs a roof replacement or a simple repair. Let’s break down what we check in each part of the inspection.

Exterior Roof Components

The exterior of your roof is the first line of defense against the elements. During a roof inspection, our inspectors look for several things, including the condition of shingles, roof penetrations, gutters, and other roof parts. Here’s what we’ll be checking:

• Shingles: We will look for any missing, cracked, curling, or damaged shingles. If you have an asphalt shingle roof, which is common, we’ll also check for granular loss (those tiny particles that protect your shingles from the sun). Damaged shingles can lead to roof leaks and other problems.
• Roof Flashing: This is the material that seals the joints and edges around things like chimneys, skylights, and vents. Flashing protects your home by directing water away from vulnerable areas. We will make sure the flashing isn’t loose, missing, or rusted, as this could lead to leaks.
• Roof Penetrations: Roof penetrations are anything that pokes through the roof, such as vents, pipes, or chimneys. These areas are often the first to show signs of roof damage because they disrupt the roofing system. Our inspectors will check for proper sealing around roof penetrations to ensure water doesn’t sneak into your home.
• Gutters and Downspouts: Select Renovations will look to see if gutters are securely fastened and free of debris. If gutters aren’t working properly, water can pool on the roof, causing roof decking to rot or deteriorate.
• Soffits and Fascia: These parts of the roof’s edge help protect your home from water damage. We will check for any rotting, cracks, or signs of pests in these areas.
• Overall Roof Condition: Finally, an exterior inspection looks for any signs of wear from weather, especially in areas prone to heavy rain or hail. Hail damage can create small dents or cracks that might not be obvious right away but can lead to bigger issues down the road.

Interior Roof Components (Attic Check)

After checking the outside, we will head inside your attic for a look at the roof from underneath. You might not think about your attic much, but it plays a big role in keeping your roof and home safe.

• Attic Leaks: We will look for any signs of water damage, like dark spots, mold, or damp insulation. If water is getting through the roof, it’s likely you’ll see evidence in your attic first.
• Ventilation and Insulation: A properly ventilated attic keeps your roof in good shape. If there’s too much heat and moisture trapped inside, it can damage your roof decking and shorten the lifespan of your shingles. We will check if your attic is ventilating well and if the insulation is in good condition.
• Structural Damage: While in the attic, we will also look for any sagging or structural issues with the roof. This might be caused by water damage or a weakened roof system, especially in older homes.

Types of Roofs and How They Impact the Inspection

Not all roofs are the same, and the type of roof you have can change how the inspection is done. For instance, an asphalt shingle roof is common in homes, but metal roofs or flat roofs have different inspection needs. Let’s look at a few roof types and what we look for with each:

• Asphalt Shingle Roofs: We check for missing or damaged shingles, granular loss, and signs of aging. Since asphalt shingles are one of the most popular materials, they’re usually easy and affordable to repair.
• Flat Roofs: Flat roofs often require special attention because they don’t drain water as quickly as sloped roofs. We look for ponding water, membrane damage, and proper drainage systems.
• Tile or Slate Roofs: While these roofs are beautiful and durable, they’re also heavier and more expensive to repair. We will check for cracked or loose tiles and make sure the roof’s structure can handle the weight.

Metal Roofs: We look for rust, bent panels, or signs of improper installation in metal roofing systems. These roofs are long-lasting, but damage from storms or poor installation can cause issues.

What to Expect During a Roof Inspection

Whether you’re inspecting your roof yourself or hiring a pro, knowing the inspection process helps. The typical roof inspection guide will follow these steps:

• Visual Check: We start with a structural inspection and a visual check from the ground, noting any obvious damage, such as missing shingles, signs of leaks, or damaged gutters.
• Roof Walk: If safe, we’ll climb onto the roof to inspect the surface up close. We will check for roof penetrations, damaged flashing, signs of leaks, and other weak spots.
• Interior Inspection: After the exterior is checked, we move indoors to examine the attic space for leaks, insulation issues, and structural damage.
• Report: Finally, you’ll receive a report that outlines any roof damage and recommends repairs. This report is valuable whether you plan to fix things yourself or hire a professional roofing company like Select Renovations.

Roof Inspection Cost in Fraser, MI

The cost of a roof inspection in Fraser, MI, can vary based on the size of your home and the complexity of your roofing system. On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $400 for a professional roof inspection. The cost may be higher if you have a larger home or if you need special services like drone inspections or infrared scans to detect moisture.

While some homeowners might shy away from the cost, regular roof inspections can actually save you money by catching small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. Plus, if you’re in an area prone to storms or hail, it’s a good idea to have an annual roof inspection for peace of mind.

How to Choose a Roof Inspector

When it comes to choosing the right roof inspector or roofing company, here are a few tips:

• Look for Experience: Make sure the inspector or company you hire has experience with the type of roof you have, whether it’s asphalt shingles, metal, or tile. Select Renovations has extensive experience with all types of roofing and specialize in Duro-Last and metal roofing.
• Check Credentials: A professional roof inspector should be licensed and insured. This protects you in case of accidents during the inspection. We are fully licensed and insured to operate in the Metro-Detroit area.
• Read Reviews: Look at reviews from other homeowners in your area. A good roof inspector will have positive feedback from past clients. We have a 4.9 rating on Google and live up to our exemplary reputation. 
• Ask for a Detailed Report: Ensure the inspector will provide a full report with pictures, so you know exactly what condition your roof is in. We will always provide you with a report so you can hand it to your insurance or have it at hand. 

Conclusion

Understanding what roof inspectors look for is key to keeping your roof in good shape, especially in areas like Fraser, MI, where weather can take a toll on your roofing system. Whether you’re doing a DIY inspection after a hailstorm or hiring a professional for an annual roof inspection, knowing what to check can help you spot roof damage before it becomes a bigger problem. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule our regular roof inspections to protect your home from leaks and costly repairs. Call us today and we’ll fit you in as soon as possible!