Roofing Inspection Belle Isle FL: Don't Be Pulled In! Roof inspections are often misunderstood by consumers. Roofing inspections are not just for the contractor or handyman. An inspection should be performed by anyone with basic familiarity with inspecting structures - in this case, your home's roof. You should know what to look for and what to do in case of an emergency. Here's how to keep you and your family safe from roof leaks, costly repairs, and other problems.

Chimneys, Flues, and Stem Rings A roof inspection should begin in your attic, and not on your roof itself. The underside of a roof reveals some more and hidden structural defects that you might not even be aware of. First, a roofing inspector will check for proper ventilation, which includes any blocked ducts. A good chimney sweep will be able to identify any problem areas where moisture or cold air can buildup. If you have existing cracks, leaky pipes, or missing mortar joints, it's also your responsibility as a homeowner to make sure these issues are repaired or replaced.

Condensation Build-up After a heavy rain or storm, there's likely to be water trapped in your house. When it rains for several days in a row, this water builds up and causes damage to your roof. If you live in an area that experiences high precipitation, such as in Colorado or the Pacific Northwest, a new roof inspection is especially important after a particularly wet season. Your roofing company should check for standing water and clean out drainage points. Once the new roof is on, your roofing company will probably install an air mattress to help the soil release through the seams without causing problems such as sagging. This helps prevent future issues.

Leaks There is nothing worse than being in the middle of the rainy season and discovering a huge, leaking pipe. Whether it's a pipe leading to your hot water heater or a drainage system, your roofing inspection team will quickly fix these problems. It's important for the homeowner to understand the importance of routine maintenance to ensure their property is kept in peak condition. When leaks are noticed, they must be repaired and the area caulked and filled with caulk. If the homeowner does not perform regular maintenance inspections, problems can become much worse.

Galvanized Sheet Metal While a roofing inspection is most often triggered when a leak is detected, there are other reasons a roof might need repair or replacement. In some cases, metal or asphalt shingles may become weak due to corrosion from salt air. In other cases, the metal may become brittle due to the weather. Either way, it's important to have your roof checked for signs of deterioration and to replace or repair damaged sections of metal or asphalt. A professional roofer can inspect both the inside and outside of the structure and spot other possible weak areas. It's very common for shingles to fail in hot, humid areas, which is why such inspections should be scheduled at the start of each season.

Gutters and Chimneys Gutters are probably the most neglected components of the home. They are not looked at as often as they should be because they are rarely if ever visible from the exterior. Even when they are inspected, homeowners rarely know what type of damage is occurring under the gutter. If left unnoticed, gutter and chimney repairs can lead to more serious problems. A roofing inspection is a great way to identify problem areas and bring the structure back to its original appearance.

Roof Vent Inspections While leaks are by far the most prevalent reason for a roof inspection, even fewer homeowners realize the importance of inspecting their chimneys. If not inspected for leaks, the accumulated sediments and minerals from rain can lead to decay and damage over time. Chimneys should be inspected monthly in order to maintain an aesthetically appealing appearance. If you notice signs of damage in your chimney, it is important to contact a reliable professional to ensure the damage is not extensive and will need professional repair.

If you have any questions or concerns about your current roof, contact a local roofing expert today to schedule an inspection. It's never too early to start protecting your home. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the road. Preventative measures are key to keeping your home in great shape.