Articles > Roof Replacement > A Complete Roof Inspection
Many home improvement companies offer "Free Inspections". Unfortunately, these inspections don’t typically offer the homeowner the full value of what an inspection rIeally entails! If you are inviting a contractor to your home to complete a roof inspection, be sure that they complete the following:
1. Talk to You: This may seem like the most obvious part, but many contractors fail to speak with the homeowner about their specific problems, needs and possible solutions. Having never seen a home before, it is important for anyone completing an estimate or inspection to speak with the homeowner about what prompted the need for the inspection — have they been experiencing leaks? Are they concerned about mold in the attic? Have they seen missing shingles? Having the homeowner available to point out exactly where they have seen these problems, and discuss how long they have been happening will give the inspector a much more thorough understanding of the problem at hand.
2. Inspect the Roof: Again, an obvious point, but something that is sometimes skipped over by contractors who think they can determine the roof’s condition from street-level. Sure, there are some things that are obvious from street-level, but there are some problems that must be examined up close (for instance, rotted decking, missing granules, flashing issues). There are some roofs that are not accessible by foot, because of poor condition, extremely steep slopes or other situations, but the contractor should at least place a ladder against the roof to examine the eave edges before fully assessing the condition. Failing to do so may cost you more in the end, because problems have been overlooked!
3. Inspect the Attic: Many homeowners think that their attic is completely independent from their roof. This is not true! The condition of your roof can affect your attic, and vice versa. Poorly ventilated attic space can result in a prematurely failed roof system and mold and mildew on the attic rafters and decking. And of course, a poorly installed roof can cause water damage to your attic or the interior of your home.
4. Provide You with Options: Contractors should be able to take the information gathered from the inspection and their discussions with you to present a variety of options to solve your roofing problems. Avoid companies that offer only a single product to you, without giving you choices between warranty, price or style. Also, be sure that the company is completing the job the right way (according to manufacturer’s specifications) and is willing to take the time to explain all of the details to you.
Remember, not every house is exactly the same, so choose a contractor that deals with your home as if they have never seen it before. You will end up with a better finished product, and you will have a better understanding of the value of your roof system!
