Whether you have a metal roof or not, the fasteners, rivets, and screws should be inspected to ensure they aren’t loose or crooked. They should also be checked for corrosion or a possible leak zone.
Mold, mildew, or sagging indicate internal damage and need immediate repair. Also, look for rust in the metal valleys around chimney flashing and skylights. If you need some professional help, contact Colorado Springs Roofing Contractor.
Gutter damage is often overlooked, but a gutter system is important not just for the roof but also for the foundation and landscaping. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and erode the foundation, which can damage the structure of the home.
During a roof inspection, the contractor will check the gutters for signs of damage that can affect the shingles and other parts of the roof. They’ll look for dents and dings, as well as sitting granules. If the granules haven’t been moved by the wind, they can indicate that hail has caused enough damage to warrant replacement of the roof shingles or tiles.
They’ll also check for any signs of leaks. This can include water spots in the attic or on the ceiling, but it can also be things like sagging between rafters, wet insulation, and moss or fungus growing on pipes or the gutters. If these are found, they should be checked and repaired as soon as possible.
Finally, they’ll take a closer look at the gutters and the flashing. They’ll check the gutters for holes and rust and ensure that they aren’t sagging or pulling away from the house or the overhangs. They’ll also look for the flashing around skylights, chimneys, vents, and pipes, ensuring that it is not cracked or damaged.
They’ll also make sure the gutters are properly sloped so that water can move quickly and easily down the gutters and into the downspouts. A good gutter system should slope down at a rate of 1/16-inch per foot, or 1/4-inch every 10 feet. Anything less, and the water won’t move as quickly and could pool in the gutters or erode the soil. If the gutters aren’t sloped correctly, they should be corrected as soon as possible. This is an easy fix, but it’s one that many homeowners don’t think about. It’s also a good idea to clean the gutters at least twice a year, especially after heavy storms. This will help prevent clogs and other problems.
Inspect the flashing.
During your roof inspection, be sure to pay close attention to the flashing. This is what seals the transition areas on your roof, such as those around skylights, roof valleys, and chimneys. Without proper flashing, water can seep in through these areas and damage insulation and wood. Flashing is available in a variety of materials, but metal is typically the preferred choice because it is both durable and flexible.
In addition to checking for any rust or other signs of wear, you also need to check for any gaps in the flashing. This is an important step because 90 percent of all leaks occur at flashing points. If you notice any signs of looseness or gaps, then it is necessary to have the flashing repaired or replaced before the problem gets worse.
A professional roofing company can help with any repairs to your roof flashing. However, it is important to hire a licensed and insured roofer who has experience working with different types of flashing. It is also a good idea to ask the contractor about his or her experience working on the type of roof you have.
While inspecting your gutters and shingles, you should also look for any damage to the fascia and soffit boards. These areas are designed to keep rainwater and snow from damaging your roof and leaking into the home. Be sure to look for any dents or other signs of damage, especially after a strong storm.
It is also a good idea to check the downspouts for any signs of blockage. Clogged downspouts can cause a great deal of damage to your roof and lead to leaks throughout the house. Be sure to clean out your gutters and downspouts as often as possible to ensure that they are working properly.
Inspect the shingles.
Every roof has shingles, and these are your home’s first line of defense against rain, snow, ice, hail, and other weather damage. A roofing professional will inspect your shingle for signs of deterioration or damage, such as loose shingles, curled or blistered shingles, and shingles that have lost their granules. If you have a shingle that looks bare, you should have it replaced right away to prevent leaks and other problems with your roof.
A professional roof inspector will also check your shingles for any signs of water damage. These can include dark stains on the ceiling and walls, which indicate that water is getting under the shingles and into your home. Your roof inspector will also check the shingles for any cracks or other damaged parts and look for any dirt and debris that may have accumulated on your roof.
If your roof has skylights, the inspector will check for any signs of leaks or moisture damage around them. He will also check the flashing and vents to ensure that they are well sealed. Your inspector will also look for any deteriorating or missing parts, such as rubber boots and seals around vent pipes.
An inspection of your gutters is important, too. When they become clogged, the water that overflows can get under the shingles and cause leaks. It’s also possible for clogged gutters to erode the foundation of your house and rot the siding. A good roof inspector will check your gutters to make sure they are not clogged and that they are working properly.
If you have a metal roof, the inspector will check it for any signs of damage, such as dents or rust. He will also look for any areas of the roof that are showing signs of water damage, such as stains or mold. He will also check your attic for any signs of a leaking roof and look for water stains on the interior ceiling and walls. Water leaks can cause mold, rot, and other structural damage to your home, so it is very important that you have any leaks repaired as soon as they are noticed.
Inspect the soffit.
The soffit is the underside of your roof overhang. It’s the part you can see if you look up at the underside of your roof overhang from the ground. It’s usually made of wood or fiber cement, and it can be designed to match the rest of your home’s exterior, providing a beautiful finish for your roof overhang. Soffits serve several important functions for your roof and home, including ventilation and moisture control.
Moisture can cause a number of serious problems for your home, including water damage, mold, and wood rot. Soffits prevent moisture from entering the region immediately under your roofline, which can help prevent the formation of mold and rot. They also provide adequate venting to your attic space, ensuring that warm air can escape and that your attic remains well ventilated.
Your soffit is also responsible for protecting the area beneath your roof from pests and debris. Inspect it regularly for any signs of pests, and ensure that it is securely sealed and caulked.
If the soffit is damaged, it can affect your home’s ventilation and contribute to water damage within your home. If you notice condensation on your walls or ceiling, water stains in your attic, or sagging fascia, these may be signs of a soffit that needs to be repaired or replaced.
The fascia is a board that covers the ends of the rafters that support your roof overhang and helps to direct rainwater down into the gutters. The fascia can be made from a variety of materials, and it is often designed to match the color and style of your home’s exterior. The fascia can be a significant factor in your home’s appearance, and it is often a good idea to invest in uPVC fascia that is durable and low-maintenance. Inspect your fascia regularly for any signs of rot or insect infestation, and ensure that it is properly caulked and painted to maintain its durability.