On a lazy day in Vancouver, all you really want is to relax with some good television. Whether it’s a show or a movie, curling up with Netflix is the perfect way to unwind. Sometimes we resort to ignoring chores and errands, forgetting the potential costs we may incur later. Take your roof, for example. We all know that regular maintenance is essential, but there are days when we just don’t feel like dealing with it, and that can come at a cost.
A roof inspection can delay cash outflows for repairs and replacements. Consistent inspections and proper maintenance can prolong your roof’s lifespan, postponing costly problems for years to come. Since we’re on the topic of lazy days, calling a professional roofer to inspect your roof is a great way to take a break. You can relax while someone else ensures your roof is in good shape.
When To Get A Roof Inspection
Annually: it’s great if you can go a year without needing roofing services, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be proactive. To maintain your roof’s integrity and identify any potential or overlooked problems, it’s important to schedule an annual roof inspection.
After Bad Weather: Roof problems don’t always stem from poor maintenance; they are often caused by bad weather, such as storms, strong winds, and heavy rains. If you have a tree near your roof, it can lead to several potential issues, including algae growth, roof tears, missing shingles, and clogged gutters and downspouts from fallen twigs. Especially in cities like Vancouver, Richmond, and Langley, where rain is a frequent occurrence. Additionally, it can help you document the incident for insurance purposes.
Roof Inspection after installation: According to Tony Mariotti in his article on Home Inspection Statistics 2024, 88% of homebuyers hire an inspector when buying a new home.
For both sellers and new homeowners, it can be tempting to forgo a roof inspection on a new home, assuming that a new roof guarantees no issues. Although it may seem unnecessary, getting a roof inspection can offer peace of mind, ensuring that your roof is in good condition and worry-free. If any issues are discovered, you can address them promptly, potentially delaying costly repairs or replacements in the future.
When You Spot A Problem: This item is an obvious reason. When you notice an issue, delaying an inspection can allow the problem to grow larger and cause more damage. It’s best to respond promptly with a roof inspection and repair to avoid further complications and get it fixed as soon as possible.
Also, read on What You Need To Know Before The Commercial Roofing Starts: Common Mistakes and Qualities of a Good Roof for more on roofing problems.
We’ve discussed when to do an inspection, but what do we really know about roof inspections? What actually happens during a roof inspection, and how does the process work?
How Do Roof Inspections Work?
A roof inspection is a detailed and systematic assessment of your roof’s condition conducted by a professional roofer. What do these professionals do during roof inspections?
- Roofers inspect the roof from the ground for signs of damage, including curled or missing shingles, sagging areas, dents, bubbling, and algae growth. If granted access, they then proceed inside the house to examine the attic for signs of leaks, mold, or damage from water puddles.
- To get a closer look, roofers climb onto the roof for a thorough examination. They assess the condition of the roofing material to determine if it is still in good shape. They also examine seals, including flashing around chimneys and vents, which are typical entry points for rainwater. Finally, they examine the performance and water flow of the gutters and downspouts to ensure there are no twigs or leaves causing clogs.
- Drone Roof Inspection: the third option, which is optional, is that some roofing companies now use drones to obtain a bird’s-eye view of the roof. This provides an alternative to physically climbing onto the roof for a detailed inspection. Other technologies that help roofers in their work include heat detectors, which can identify insulation problems related to moisture.
- After the thorough examination, the roof inspector prepares a report detailing their findings, areas of concern, and recommendations for repairs and maintenance.
Roof inspection and repair: the next step is to follow up on the roof inspector’s report. Addressing the concerns and issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of your roof. Postponing repairs can result in more severe issues later on, leading to increased costs and greater disruptions. By acting promptly, you can preserve your roof’s integrity and safeguard your home from potential leaks and structural damage.
Roof Inspection Cost
Roof inspection costs vary depending on the roofing company you hire. That’s why it’s important to obtain multiple quotes and compare fees to select the best deal available.
The basic inspection typically starts at $100 to $300, while a comprehensive inspection ranges from $200 to $500. These amounts represent the principal fees for the roof inspection itself. If additional tools, such as drones and thermal indicators, are used, you can expect an extra charge of $100 to $300.
Some roofing companies offer free inspections if you choose to have the roofing services done by them. Bundled services can also be a cost-effective option for inspections.
