77% of the inspected roofs need maintenance, while 9% need replacement. In addition, the roof is the most expensive replaceable component of a home, costing over $15,000.
A roof inspection costs only $225, but not conducting them regularly could cost you $1200 in annual roof maintenance charges. Regular roof inspections can help you avoid these additional costs.
What Is a Roof Inspection?
A roof inspection is used to assess elements of a roof, like sealings and cracks. It is essential to know the life of a roof. In this process, a licensed inspector examines every roof component and prepares a report.
Home inspection data reveals that most problems are associated with the roof, i.e., 19.7% of all issues. On average, 98% of homes sold have home inspections, while 85% of them are sold with roof damage.
It is one of the most crucial inspections when buying or selling a house. Make sure to get an independent inspector to get an objective evaluation.
Roof Inspections vs. Home Inspections
Roof inspections are included in home inspections. However, the former only focuses on roofing issues. On the other hand, home inspections find and outline broader issues related to the property.
However, a complete home inspection would be cheaper when you are selling a house. A dedicated roof inspection is always expensive as it delves into a deeper examination.
What Does a Roof Inspector Look For?
A roof inspector examines these 5 elements in the property:
1. Surface Materials
A roof inspector checks signs of damage such as curlings, splits, cracks, etc. In addition, the inspector will make a special note if there is any algae buildup or water damage.
2. Roof Penetrations
Holes are created in the roof for vent pipes, media installation, and more. These holes are plugged by seals, flashing, or boots to keep the water out. The roof inspector checks the condition and effectiveness of the seals.
3. Flashing
The flashing strips are installed according to the building codes. The inspector will check the flashing to ensure it is up to code.
4. Attic
The inspector checks the attic to evaluate the roof structure. They check rafters, joists, and decking, including signs of roof leaks.
5. Gutters and Downspouts
The inspection ends with an examination of gutters and downspouts. Here, the inspectors check broken seams, blockages, and cracks. They inspect shingles and other materials to check whether they are deteriorating.
How Much Does a Roof Inspection Cost?
On average, a roof inspection costs around $225. However, it can range from $75 to $900 depending on the type. Here is a list of the average costs according to their types:
| Sr. No. | Type of Inspection | Cost |
| 1. | Physical | $75 to $200 |
| 2. | Drone | $120 to $320 |
| 3. | Infrared | $400 to $600 |
How Long Does a Roof Inspection Take?
On average, a roof inspection takes 45 to 60 minutes. However, it depends on multiple factors:
- Size
- Damage
- Condition of Attic
- Type
If your home has a larger area, the inspector can take up to 2 to 3 hours, or more. The inspector clicks photographs and maintains documents to support their findings which may take some time.
A roofer can finish the same job within 15 to 30 minutes. However, they might miss out on some major details as they don’t document issues as thoroughly.
How Often Should You Get a Roof Inspection?
Ideally, you should get a roof inspection once a year. It could help you tackle the damage caused by rain and snow. Being proactive can help you avoid unforeseen and expensive repairs in the future.
Apart from that, you can consider roof inspections in these situations:
- After a Storm: To claim the storm damages, you will often require a roof inspection report.
- For a Roof Appraisal: For buyers, it is always better to get a roof inspection while buying a house. For sellers, a roof inspection can be a selling point for the property.
Should You Get a Roof Inspection?
Yes, you should. Small leaks and cracks on the roof can cause damage and warrant costly replacements over time. A roof inspection can save you up to $1,200 annually, so consider it an investment.
A positive inspection report means that you will have to spend less money on renovations. It also helps you determine and extend the life span of the roof. So get that inspection done – don’t let your new home turn into a money pit!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do inspectors need to walk on my roof?
In most cases, yes. A close-up inspection is necessary to assess shingle condition, flashing integrity, and identify potential trouble spots. Safety measures will be taken by the inspector.
How much does a roof inspection cost?
On average, a roof inspection costs around $225. Many roofers offer free or low-cost inspections. Prices can vary depending on your location and the size/complexity of your roof.
How long does a roof inspection take?
Generally it depends on the size of your home, type of inspection and other factors. On average, a roof inspection takes about 45 to 60 minutes. However, larger homes takes up to 2 to 3 hours in inspection.
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