A high-quality roof depends on a strong supporting structure. Inspectors look for sagging and other structural problems that affect the performance of the roof.
They also examine the condition of the gutters, downspouts and soffits. And they evaluate the flashing and seals around penetrations such as skylights, chimneys and vent pipes for leaks. Gain more insights by visiting https://www.bostonroofingco.com/.
The material inspection part of a roof inspection examines how well your roof’s materials are holding up. Inspectors check to see that shingles, metal plates, clay, or slate shingles are not missing or damaged. They also take note of stains from moss, algae, or water damage. The inspection can also include examining the flashing under shingles to look for cracks, signs of leaks, or pests.
The structural inspection of a roof is similar to the material inspection, but it focuses on what holds up your roof. Inspectors look for any signs of sagging or uneven roof planes, as well as the condition of your gutter system, fascia, and soffit. They might even inspect the chimney, vents, and skylights.
Even if you have a new roof, it’s still important to have a professional roof inspection done. This allows the roofer to spot any workmanship problems that could lead to future issues, such as leaks or structural damage. An inspection will also help if you ever put your home on the market, as it will provide documentation of the condition of the roof.
The most common type of residential roofing material is shingle. It’s available in a wide range of colors and styles, making it easy to match with your home’s exterior and style. However, shingles do not last forever and may require replacement. The lifespan of a roof depends on the climate, maintenance, and the quality of the installation.
Flashing
A professional roof inspector knows what to look for in flashing. They will check to see if the flashing is in good condition and that it has not been compromised by water or other elements that could allow water into your home. Flashing is a crucial part of any roof and is especially important at certain points where leaks are more likely to happen, such as at the seam between the roof and a wall or the roof and a chimney or vent pipe. Flashing consists of thin pieces of corrosion-resistant metal bent to fit and overlap in joints in your roof. They can be made of plastic, tin or galvanized metal and are usually installed along the edges of your roof where it meets walls, parapets or other roofing materials.
The inspector will also check to ensure that the flashing is properly secured and sealed around eaves and ridgelines where moisture can collect and cause damage. They will also examine the gutters and downspouts to make sure that they are not clogged or otherwise impeding drainage. This can be a problem for your roof as it can trap moisture and lead to wood rot, mold growth and other problems.
While a visual inspection is important, your roof inspector will also use a thermal imaging camera to find any hot spots on your roof. This device uses a laser to detect heat, and the color of the heat will indicate whether the area is warmer than the surrounding areas or not. The inspector will then be able to identify the location of any potential problem and take the appropriate action. This can help prevent unnecessary repairs and prolong the life of your roof.
Penetrations
Many people don’t realize it, but the roof over their head is a mechanical system that performs numerous functions. It sheds rain, keeps wind and snow from damaging the rest of a house, and allows air to circulate. But, just like the pipes and fixtures in your home’s plumbing and HVAC systems, it needs regular maintenance to function properly.
This is why regular roof inspections are so important. A professional will be able to detect signs of water damage and other problems before they cause serious problems.
A professional roof inspector will check all of the penetrations in a roof, including skylights, chimneys, and vent pipes. They will also check the flashing that covers them for rust and cracks, which can lead to leaks. Additionally, they will check associated features like chimney caps and masonry to ensure they’re in good condition.
The inspection will also include an examination of the fascia and soffit boards that cover the underside of the roof overhang. These boards need to be free from rot, which can compromise the structural integrity of the overhang. Additionally, they need to be able to drain water away from the roof. The inspector will look for clogged gutters and downspouts, and will verify that the attic has proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
If you’re interested in scheduling a roof inspection, give us a call. Our professionals are well trained and have the tools to assess the condition of your roof. And, we offer a flat roof inspection option that includes the use of a drone to capture video footage from the ground. This video can help to identify ponding water and other membrane damage that would be difficult to spot from the ground.
Fascia
Fascia is a network of connective tissue that envelops body parts, from organs to muscles. When healthy, it’s slippery and smooth. When injured, it gets thicker, stickier and drier, which prevents normal movement and can entrap nerves.
The 19th-century anatomist Erasmus Wilson called fascia “a natural bandage,” and that’s exactly what it looks like in dissection: sheets of fibrous, white, gloopy tissues that wrap around muscles, bones, blood vessels and more. But it’s not easy to study, and because of its leanness, fascia has received relatively little attention compared with the muscles, bones and organs it covers.
While fascia is important for reducing friction between muscles, it’s also responsible for transmitting the mechanical stress produced by muscle contraction. This stress, however, is not transmitted along the tendons; it is transferred through the fascia that surrounds each muscle.
When the hyaluronic acid that sits between fascia layers is too viscous, it causes those layers to become bound together and lose their gliding properties. This can happen due to low temperatures (think waking up in the morning and not being fully warmed up), limited physical activity, injury or surgery, emotional trauma, aging, poor posture, and even genetic conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which disrupts collagen production.
Stecco says the best way to keep fascia healthy is to move regularly and stretch, especially if you work at a desk job. He recommends starting with a 10-minute walk or light exercise when you wake up, and doing dynamic exercises throughout the day. A heat therapy, like a hot shower or a warm bath, can also help to reduce fascia adhesions. And remember to stay hydrated, he adds. This helps to improve the shearing properties of fascia.
Soffit
The soffit on your roof is important for keeping pests, weather damage, and moisture out of your home. It also allows for proper ventilation in your attic. During a roof inspection, a professional will inspect the soffit for signs of problems like attic condensation or mold growth, sagging in the fascia boards or eaves, and damaged gutters. They will also take a look at the chimney and any other penetrations to make sure they are properly sealed and protected.
Roofing inspectors will also check the condition of the edges of your roof. They will look for any areas where the shingles or metal panels have come loose or are lifting, as these can allow water and insects to enter your home. They will also examine the gutters and drains to see if any of them are blocked or clogged. This could cause ponding and lead to foundation problems and structural damage.
In modern homes, there are often additional penetrations through the roof such as solar panels, HVAC units, satellite dishes, and skylights. Inspectors will evaluate these areas for proper installation and sealant. UV exposure and temperature fluctuations can cause the sealants to deteriorate, leading to gaps that allow water in. This is a common cause of roof leaks. Inspectors will also assess the condition of any vents in your attic such as ridge, gable, and turbine vents. These can also be a source of leaks, so they must be installed and sealed correctly.
During a roof inspection, a certified home inspector will use their knowledge and experience to identify problems and determine the overall condition of your roof. They will avoid walking on any surface that is unsafe or that could damage the roof covering or structure.