Buying or selling a home can be fraught with a number of unforeseen issues, one of them being the current state of the home’s roofing. For buyers, a bad roof can easily turn into thousands of dollars of added expenses spent on unexpected repairs. For sellers, it can result in a significantly reduced selling price or even the loss of the sale itself. A roof inspection can provide peace of mind to both parties by uncovering minor issues before they become major problems. At Vertex Roofing Contractors, our licensed Roofing Contractors in Utah handle the process of inspecting your roof, using what we’ve learned since 2009 within the Wasatch Front.
What is a Roofing Inspection?
A roofing inspection plays an important role in keeping the roofing system in excellent shape for years to come. A thoroughly conducted inspection can not only verify the roofing system’s overall health, but also alert prospective buyers and sellers to issues that could affect its longevity. Most lending agencies require a roofing inspection to be performed during the home buying process, since it can protect unwary buyers from unforeseen and potentially expensive pitfalls.
A Roofing Inspection Checklist: What Roof Inspectors Look For
A typical roofing inspection checklist may start with the inspector visually assessing the roof from the ground. Armed with a pair of binoculars, the inspector will look for obvious signs of wear, tear and damage, including broken, loose, or severely curved shingles, missing shingles and sagging at the ridges.
After the ground-based inspection, the inspector may decide to climb on the roof and take a closer look at its current state. Here are a few things you can expect your inspector to do during this time:
- Check for broken or exposed nails
- Look for damaged or missing flashing
- Check the gutters and other areas for excessive shingle granule loss
- Closely inspect the fascia board for signs of damage or deterioration
- Look for rust or corrosion on the metal flashing
- Check for cracked caulk on flashing
- Inspect areas that may be prone to leaks, including the roof valleys
- Check the vent pipe rubber boots for signs of cracks and wear
- Check for signs of algae growth
- Inspect the drains, gutters and downspouts
The inspector may also take a look at the underlying roof structure from within the home. Here are a few things that your inspector will look for:
- Signs of improper attic ventilation
- Signs of deck sagging
- Inappropriate Outdoor light penetrating through the roof structure. Some light is appropriate.
- Cracks and other defects on roof sheathing
- Rotted or otherwise damaged roof rafters
Residential and Commercial Roof Inspections in Salt Lake City, Utah
At Vertex Roofing Contractors in Salt Lake City, we are proud to offer comprehensive roofing inspection services for both residential and commercial properties. Our team of experienced roofing contractors understands the importance of a thorough inspection in maintaining the longevity and integrity of your roof. Whether you are a homeowner looking to assess the condition of your roof or a business owner in need of a detailed inspection of your commercial property, we have you covered. With our attention to detail and expertise, you can trust the roofing contractors at Vertex Roofing Contractors to identify any issues or potential problems, ensuring that your roof remains in excellent shape for years to come.
Understanding the Difference: Commercial Roof Inspections vs. Residential Roof Inspections
Commercial roof inspections differ significantly from residential roof inspections. Here are some of the key distinctions between the two to help you better comprehend the unique requirements and considerations involved in each type of inspection.
- Roof Size and Complexity: Commercial roofs tend to be larger and more complex than residential roofs. They often feature multiple levels, intricate designs, and additional structures such as HVAC systems, skylights, and rooftop equipment. Consequently, commercial roof inspections require specialized knowledge and equipment to thoroughly assess these complex systems.
- Accessibility: Residential roofs are typically more accessible compared to commercial roofs. In residential inspections, roofing contractors can easily navigate the roof and perform a comprehensive examination from various angles. On the other hand, commercial roofs may have limited access points, requiring contractors to utilize advanced equipment such as cranes, scaffolding, or aerial lifts to reach certain areas safely.
- Regulations and Codes: Commercial properties are subject to specific building codes and regulations that differ from residential properties. During a commercial roof inspection, contractors must ensure compliance with these codes, including fire ratings, insulation requirements, and safety measures. Familiarity with these regulations is crucial to identify any potential violations and ensure the roof meets the necessary standards.
- Material Considerations: Commercial roofs often incorporate different materials compared to residential roofs. While residential roofs commonly use asphalt shingles,commercial roofs may utilize a variety of materials such as built-up roofing, modified bitumen, metal panels, or single-ply membranes. Each material has its unique characteristics and requires specialized knowledge to assess its condition, identify any defects or damage, and recommend the appropriate repairs or maintenance.
- Long-Term Investment: Commercial roofs are a significant investment for businesses, and their lifespan can greatly impact the overall cost of ownership. Unlike residential roofs, which are often replaced every 20-30 years, commercial roofs can last anywhere from 10 to 50 years, depending on the material and maintenance. A thorough commercial roof inspection helps businesses assess the remaining lifespan of their roof, plan for future repairs or replacements, and ensure they are making the most cost-effective decisions for their property.
Preventative Maintenance Tips to Help Protect Your Investment
Preventative maintenance is always the key to a long-lived roofing system. Here are a few tips you can use to extend the life of your roof:
- Always inspect your roof for damage after high winds, hailstorms or other severe weather activity.
- Always keep your roof free of leaves, branches and other debris.
- Keep your gutters, drains and downspouts clean to promote proper drainage and reduce the chance of leaks.
- Arrange for twice-yearly maintenance and inspection from a trusted contractor.
Schedule an Inspection with Vertex Roofing Contractors
At Vertex Roofing Contractors, we pride ourselves on offering trusted, high-quality roofing Salt Lake City. Before you buy or sell your real estate or file an roof damage insurance claim, you should give us a call and have our professional team of roofing experts perform a careful inspection of the roof. Not only do we offer comprehensive reports of any and all issues found with the roof, but we can also recommend repairs before buying or selling your home. Contact Vertex Roofing Contractors using our online form or call (801) 639-0477 today to schedule your free roof inspection today.