When Do I Need A Roof Inspection?

When Should St. Petersburg Residents Get A Roof Inspection?

We understand the critical role our roofs play in protecting our homes from the harsh elements. Moreover, given the extreme climate and environmental factors here in Florida, it is important to consider the value of having a professional roof inspection to keep things in check. That said, how often do you need a roof inspection? There are several factors that effect the condition of a roof. The age of a roof, local weather conditions and any surrounding tree lines can impact a roof. Whether you have a shingle, metal or tile roof, regular roof inspections are crucial for maintaining your home’s integrity and meeting insurance requirements.

Signs It’s Time for a Professional Roof Inspection in Florida

At Drew Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how Florida’s intense climate can take a toll on residential roofing. Furthermore, there are some key indicators that it’s time to call in the experts for a thorough inspection.

Visible Damage or Wear

• Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
• Loose or damaged flashing around chimneys and vents
• Sagging areas on the roof

These issues can lead to leaks and further damage if left unchecked. Regular inspections help catch problems early.

Age of Your Roof

As roofs age, they become more susceptible to damage. A good rule of thumb is to have the roof inspected according to the following roof ages.

• Inspections every 3-5 years for roofs under 10 years old
• Every 2-3 years, inspections for roofs over 10 years old
• Annual checks for roofs nearing the end of their lifespan

After Severe Weather Events

Florida’s weather and storms have been known to wreak havoc on roofs. It is a good idea to schedule an inspection after intense storm activity.

• Hurricanes or tropical storms
• Hailstorms
• High wind events

Even if you don’t see obvious damage, hidden issues could compromise your roof’s integrity.

Interior Warning Signs

Sometimes, roof problems manifest inside your home. The following symptoms could be related to a problem with the roof.

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Unexplained mold growth
• Increased energy bills (possibly due to poor insulation from roof damage)

Don’t wait for these signs to worsen. A professional roof inspection can identify the root cause and prevent costly repairs down the line.

How Often Should You Get Your Florida Roof Inspected?

At Drew Roofing, we recommend that Florida homeowners schedule regular roof inspections to ensure the longevity and safety of their homes. The frequency of these inspections can vary based on several factors.

Age of the Roof

Newer roofs typically require less frequent inspections, while older roofs may need more attention,

• 0-10 years old: Every 3-5 years
• 10+ years old: Every 2-3 years
• Roofs at the end of their lifespan: Every year

Climate Considerations

Florida’s climate, with its intense sun, high humidity, and frequent storms, can accelerate roof wear.

• Have you roof inspected after major weather events (hurricanes, tropical storms).
• Inspect the roof before and after hurricane season.

Tree Coverage

Homes with significant tree coverage may require more frequent inspections due to potential damage from falling branches. The accumulation of leaves and debris can also cause water to gather causing degradation of the roofing materials.

Insurance Requirements

Unfortunately, due to fraud and scams, many Florida insurance companies have become aggressive when it comes to maintaining specific roof inspection requirements.

• Some policies mandate annual inspections by state licensed roofers
• Others may require more frequent checks for older roofs
• Some carriers won’t even insure homes with a roof older than 15 years.

What’s Included in a Comprehensive Roof Inspection?

We believe in thorough, professional roof inspections and proper documentation that leaves no stone unturned. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of your roof is examined with expert precision. Here’s what you can expect during one of our detailed roof inspections:

Exterior Examination

We begin with a meticulous exterior assessment. In particular, our skilled inspectors carefully examine the roof’s surface, looking for signs of wear, damage, or potential weak spots. This includes:

• Checking for missing, cracked, or curling shingles
• Inspecting flashing around chimneys, vents, and other protrusions
• Evaluating the condition of gutters and downspouts
• Assessing overall roof structure and pitch

Interior Inspection

Our thorough process doesn’t stop at the exterior. Additionally, we conduct a detailed interior inspection, which involves:

• Examining the attic for proper ventilation and insulation
• Looking for signs of water damage or leaks on ceilings and walls
• Checking for daylight penetration through the roof deck

Professional Documentation

Following the inspection, we provide a detailed report outlining our findings. This comprehensive document includes photographs, recommendations for repairs or maintenance if needed and an overall assessment of your roof’s condition. Our goal is to equip you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your roof’s care and longevity.

Can I Inspect My Roof Myself?

While professional inspections are crucial, homeowners can perform basic visual checks.

• Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
• Sagging areas on the roof
• Visible water stains on interior ceilings
• Granules in gutters (indicating shingle wear)

Conducting your own roof inspection can certainly save you money. Regular visual checks from the ground can help identify obvious issues like missing shingles or sagging areas, DIY inspections have significant limitations. However, without proper training and equipment, it’s easy to miss subtle signs of damage or wear that could lead to costly roofing repairs down the line. Additionally, walking on your roof without proper safety measures can be dangerous, especially in Florida’s often wet and humid conditions. Lastly, if an inspection is required by your insurance company, a DIY roof inspection will be declined.

The Benefits of Professional Roof Inspections By Drew Roofing

We strongly recommend hiring a licensed professional for thorough roof inspections. With this in mind, our experienced roofers have the expertise to spot potential problems that untrained eyes might miss. In fact, we use specialized equipment to assess the structural integrity of your roof, check for moisture intrusion and evaluate the condition of flashing and other critical components.

Professional inspections also provide detailed documentation that can be valuable for insurance purposes or when selling your home. By staying proactive and attentive to your roof’s condition, we can help prevent costly damage and ensure your home remains protected. If you need to have your roof inspected, call Drew Roofing today to schedule an appointment at 727-522-3739 or contact us on our website here.