A Guide to Minnesota Residential Roof Inspections
Your home's roof is a primary source of protection for your interior space from extreme temperatures, critters, and harsh weather. To help it withstand all the exterior elements, it's essential to have a regular roof inspection performed every few years or if you suspect there's a problem.
Knowing what to expect can help you prepare, and we have a list of common things the expert will check for during your roofing inspection.
Why Get an Inspection?
From insurance company requests to buying a new home or selling your old one, there are many reasons why roofing inspections are invaluable. Some other common reasons why it might be the right time to schedule one are:
You Had a Major Storm
Minnesota is no stranger to storms, so if you recently had a major weather event, there's always the risk of ice and snow damage or projectiles hitting the surface from strong winds.
The Building has Settled
Any building will move as it expands and contracts, and the older it is, the more it will settle and shift in the foundation, which can cause displacement in the roofing system that may need to be addressed.
Shoddy Design or Construction
If the building has a bad design, it wasn't constructed by experts or previous roof repairs weren't done correctly, these can all spell trouble for the roofing system.
Basic Wear and Tear
A lot is riding on your roof; everyday wear and tear can cause aging. A professional inspection can help you spot any issues and resolve them quickly.
What Gets Inspected in the Process?
Once your appointment is scheduled and the inspector arrives, they will have a checklist to make sure every component of the roof is checked out, and the primary things they inspect are:
The Materials
The inspector will look at all components and materials, whether you have shingles or metal, to make sure they are still holding up and in good condition. They'll check for staining, water damage, moss, and standard damages and include the flashing underneath the roofing material to make sure it's free of signs of pests, leaks, or cracks.
Structural Integrity
The inspection will also include how well the system is performing. This means they look for sagging and how the planes are laid out. The structural portion examines the well-being of the roof's main components and the condition of extras like gutters, chimneys, vents, skylights, and any exterior seals and grout to make sure they are not damaged.
Interior Spaces
There will also be an interior inspection, and the expert will look for damage that's not visible on the roof. They will check walls, ceilings, and the attic space and look for signs of:
- Wood rot
- Mold
- Water stains
- Cracks or holes
- Infestations
Once completed, you will receive a full assessment and a quote to turn in to your insurance provider for any recommended roof repairs or if they believe a replacement is needed.
Should You DIY an Inspection?
While you could DIY the inspection and try to save yourself a couple of bucks, this can be dangerous because if you're not trained, you can overlook signs that something is wrong. A professional will not only have the experience but also the right equipment to stay safe during the process.
A pro will also be an excellent resource if you end up filing a home insurance claim for roof repair and need support with the process.
Get a Professional Roof Inspection with Restoration Geeks
While roofing inspections can feel like an extra process to navigate, they can keep your home safer and reduce the likelihood of a bigger issue, like structural integrity damage from leaks.
When you need experts in the business, Restoration Geeks has been Minnesota's premier roofing company for over 20 years. Whether you need a residential or commercial roof repair or exterior services like siding, gutters, or windows, we have you covered!
Book your consultation online or give our Edina office a call at 952-500-9546 today.