Comprehensive Roof Inspection

Certification and Inspection Association Business Member’s Guide

 

Comprehensive roof inspections are an essential part of maintaining a safe and functional building. A roof is often taken for granted until a problem arises. Regular inspections by a certified roofing contractor help to prevent any potential issues from becoming major problems.

 

The consequences of a leaky or damaged roof can be severe and can lead to costly repairs for both the building owner and occupants if not properly addressed in a timely manner. As a business member of the National Roofing Certification and Inspection Association (NRCIA), providing your clients with the best possible service to protect their properties is crucial.

 

Orange County Roof Inspection
Roof Inspection

Section 1: The Importance of Regular Roof Inspection: Preventative Maintenance for Roofing Integrity

 

1.1 Early Detection of Issues

 

Early detection of potential issues is crucial in maintaining the functionality and safety of your building’s roof. A proper roof inspection by a certified roofing company can detect any signs of wear and tear early on, allowing for appropriate remediation measures to be taken before more significant problems arise.

 

During a comprehensive roof inspection, the inspector will assess the roof’s overall condition, taking measurements such as slope, water spots, cracks, and leaks, and checking for any damage from wind or hail. They will also check for any potential issues related to gutters, downspouts vent pipes, and roof drainage patterns, ensuring that water is directed away from the roof and building.

 

Early detection and repair of issues such as damaged shingles, cracks, tears, or other weaknesses that may result from weather, fallen debris, or even simple aging can save time and money in the long run. It permits remediation before more significant problems arise, potentially averting the need for an entirely new roof. Furthermore, early detection can help to identify potential safety concerns, such as the presence of overhanging branches or any other potential structural issues. Addressing these concerns early can help ensure the safety of the building’s occupants.

 

Early detection of potential issues during a roof inspection is critical in maintaining the functionality and safety of your building’s roof. Detecting any signs of wear and tear early on during a structural inspection allows for appropriate remediation measures to be taken, potentially averting the need for an entirely new roof. It also helps identify potential safety concerns and ensures the safety of the building’s occupants.

 

1.2 Maximizing Roof’s Lifespan

 

Comprehensive Roof Inspection
Comprehensive Roof Inspection

 

Regular inspections are essential in maximizing the lifespan of your building’s roof. By detecting any signs of wear and tear early on, appropriate remediation measures can be taken, preventing further damage, and extending the roof’s lifespan.

 

Additionally, regular inspections can provide a better understanding of the roof’s lifespan, allowing for proper planning and budgeting for the eventual need for a new roof. By knowing when to replace the roof, building owners can avoid costly emergency roof repairs, and ensure that their roofing investment lasts as long as possible.

 

Regular comprehensive roof inspections can also increase confidence and peace of mind, knowing that the roof is in good condition and that appropriate measures are being taken to ensure its longevity. It also provides a safer and more secure building environment, ensuring that any potential safety concerns are identified and addressed promptly.

 

Moreover, regular inspections by a professional roofing company that can certify a leak-free roof, can help to identify any potential energy efficiency issues, such as improper insulation, which can increase heating and cooling costs. By identifying these issues early on, appropriate remediation measures can be taken, reducing energy costs and improving the building’s overall efficiency.

 

Regular inspections by a roofing professional are essential in maximizing the lifespan of your building’s roof. It allows for appropriate remediation measures to be taken, preventing further damage and extending the roof’s lifespan. It also provides a better understanding of the roof’s lifespan, ensuring proper planning and budgeting.

 

Regular inspections increase confidence and peace of mind, provide a safer and more secure building environment, and identify potential energy efficiency issues, reducing energy costs and improving the building’s overall efficiency.

 

Section 2: Thorough Assessment Techniques for Identifying Potential Roofing Issues

 

2.1 Comprehensive Inspection Techniques

 

Comprehensive roof inspections are critical in identifying potential roofing issues. It is essential to take measurements such as slope, water spots, cracks, and leaks, as well as assess the roof’s overall condition. These techniques can help identify potential roof damage issues before they become major problems, leading to costly repairs or complete roof replacements.

 

When it comes to assessing the roof’s condition, it is vital to take note of any discoloration, missing shingles, or any other signs of wear and tear. A thorough inspection of the roof’s surface can also identify any rusted or corroded flashings, which can cause leaks and structural damage over time. The inspector should also look for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or dents in the roof, which may indicate a potential weakness.

 

During the roof inspection process, it is essential to check the new roof for any damage from wind or hail. Wind damage can cause shingles or other roofing materials to lift, exposing the roof to potential leaks and water damage. Hail damage can result in cracked or dented shingles, leading to further damage and potentially requiring complete roof replacement.

 

It is also important to inspect the gutters, downspouts, and roof drainage patterns. Clogged gutters can redirect water into unexpected areas, leading to mold, leaks, pests, water stains, and even structural damage. Proper drainage is essential to ensure that water is directed away from the roof and building. Roof inspectors may also assess the condition of your roof’s insulation to ensure it meets current standards, which can improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs.

 

Lastly, inspectors may assess for any tree growth near the roof or any other potential issues that could cause structural problems. Overhanging branches can cause significant damage to the roof, leading to leaks and other issues. Any potential mold growth or structural issues should be identified and addressed to ensure the safety of the building’s occupants.

 

Professional inspections, by a reputable roofing contractor, are essential in identifying potential roofing issues before they become major problems. By assessing the roof’s overall condition, taking measurements such as slope, water spots, cracks, and leaks, and checking for any damage from wind or hail, roof inspectors can identify potential weaknesses and recommend appropriate remediation measures and sound roofing advice.

 

Additionally, inspecting the gutters, downspouts, and roof drainage patterns and assessing any potential structural issues can help ensure the safety and longevity of the roofing investment.

 

2.2 Importance of Gutters, Downspouts, and Drainage Patterns

 

During the roof inspection process, it is important to assess the gutters, downspouts, and roof drainage patterns as well. Cleaning gutters and downspouts is essential to ensuring water is directed away from the roof and building.

 

Roof inspectors may also look at the roof’s insulation to ensure it meets current standards, which can improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. Lastly, inspectors may assess the house for any tree growth near the roof or any other potential issues that could cause structural problems.

 

Section 3: Benefits of Hiring a Certified Roofing Contractor: Ensuring Quality Construction and Peace of Mind

 

3.1 Thorough and Experienced Inspection

 

When it comes to roof and home inspections though, hiring a certified roofing company is crucial in ensuring that the job is done thoroughly and professionally. A certified roofing inspector is an experienced and trained professional who can identify potential issues that an inexperienced or uncertified inspector may miss.

 

During the inspection process, the certified inspector will carry out a thorough assessment of the roof’s overall condition, taking measurements such as slope, water spots, cracks, and leaks, and checking for any damage from wind or hail. Additionally, the inspector will check the gutters, downspouts, and roof drainage patterns to ensure proper water flows away from the building. Any potential structural issues or overhanging branches that could cause damage to the roof will also be inspected and assessed.

 

The inspector’s experience and expertise will enable them to identify potential weaknesses and recommend appropriate remediation measures. They can also provide recommendations to help extend the roof’s lifespan, such as proper maintenance and cleaning techniques.

 

In addition to identifying potential issues, a professional roofer can fix any problems quickly and efficiently. They have the necessary tools and knowledge to carry out any repairs required, ensuring that the job is done to industry standards.

 

By hiring a certified roofing professional, you can have peace of mind knowing that your roofing investment is in good hands. A roofing professional carried out by an experienced and trained professional will help ensure the safety and longevity of the roof, maximizing its lifespan and reducing the likelihood of an expensive roof problem & roofing repairs down the road.

 

Roof inspections by a certified inspector are essential in ensuring a thorough and professional roof inspection. With their experience and expertise, they can identify potential issues and recommend appropriate replacement options, roof repairs, and remediation measures, ensuring the safety and longevity of the roofing investment. Additionally, they can fix any problem quickly and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs down the road.

 

3.2 Safety and Longevity of Roofing Investment

 

Hiring an experienced and certified roof company for a roof inspection is essential for the safety and longevity of your roofing investment. While it may be tempting to cut costs and hire an inexperienced or uncertified inspector, doing so can lead to significant risks down the road.

 

An uncertified inspector performing a roof inspection may miss critical issues during the inspection process, leading to costly repairs or even complete roof replacements down the road. Their lack of experience and expertise can result in overlooking potential safety concerns or issues related to building code compliance.

 

Additionally, an uncertified inspector may not have the necessary tools or knowledge to carry out any repairs required efficiently and effectively, leading to further damage to the roof and potentially putting the building’s occupants at risk.

 

By contrast, a certified roof inspector has the necessary expertise and experience to identify potential issues and recommend appropriate remediation measures. They are knowledgeable about industry standards and regulations, ensuring that the job is done to the appropriate level of quality.

 

Hiring a certified roof inspector can also provide peace of mind, knowing that your roofing investment is in good hands. They can provide recommendations to help extend the roof’s lifespan, such as proper maintenance and cleaning techniques, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs down the road.

 

The safety and longevity of your roofing investment are crucial. Hiring an experienced and certified roof inspector is essential in ensuring that the job is done thoroughly and professionally. An uncertified inspector may miss critical issues, leading to costly repairs or even complete roof replacements down the road.

 

By contrast, a certified roof inspector can identify potential issues, recommend appropriate remediation measures, and provide peace of mind, ensuring the safety and longevity of the roofing investment.

 

3.3 Adherence to Industry Standards

 

Certified roof inspectors pay close attention to current roofing industry standards, ensuring that the job is carried out to the appropriate level of quality. They have the necessary certification examinations, training, and continuing education to carry out a thorough inspection and make appropriate recommendations.

 

As such, certified inspectors have extensive experience with all types of roofing materials, allowing them to identify potential issues and recommend appropriate remediation measures. They know what to look for and what methods to use when assessing different materials, ensuring that the job is done to industry standards.

 

Additionally, certified inspectors are knowledgeable about building codes and regulations, ensuring that the roof’s installation and maintenance comply with appropriate standards. Compliance with industry standards is essential in ensuring the safety and longevity of the roofing investment.

 

Hiring a certified roofer for an annual inspection, provides peace of mind, knowing that the job is being carried out to the appropriate level of quality. The inspector’s adherence to industry standards ensures that any potential issues are identified, and appropriate remediation measures are taken, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs down the road.

 

Certified roof inspectors are trained professionals who pay close attention to current roofing industry standards. They have extensive experience with all types of roofing materials, allowing them to identify potential issues and recommend appropriate remediation measures. Their adherence to industry standards ensures that the job is carried out to the appropriate level of quality, ensuring the safety and longevity of the roofing investment.

 

3.4 Confidence and Peace of Mind

 

Hiring a certified roof inspector brings certain confidence and peace of mind that anyone needs when making a significant roofing investment. Roofers’ associations generally stand by certified roofers, ensuring that they adhere to proper protocols and quality construction. Besides, a certified roof inspector can provide useful tips for maintaining the roof effectively, thus avoiding costly repairs in the future.

 

As a business member of the NRCIA, providing your clients with the best possible service to protect their properties is crucial. Regular roof inspections can detect potential issues before they become major problems, maximizing the roof’s lifespan, and ensuring a safer and more secure building environment.

 

Comprehensive roof inspection techniques and assessment of the gutters, downspouts, and drainage patterns are essential in identifying potential roofing problems. Hiring a certified inspector for your roof brings the confidence and peace of mind that comes with a thorough and experienced inspection, adherence to industry standards, and useful tips for maintaining the roof effectively. Avoiding risks in terms of the safety and longevity of the roofing investment is vital for anyone looking to protect their properties.

Comprehensive Roofing Inspections: A Service to Clients

Maintenance is a normal part of our daily lives, and it never seems to end. Cars need oil changes, light bulbs need to be replaced, exterior paint needs to be touched up, the lawn needs to be trimmed, the house needs to be cleaned, and the kids need to be fed. As with most other things, the roof system of a structure requires maintenance.

Owner Approaches to Roof Maintenance


There are two main approaches property owners can take when it comes to their roof systems: proactive or reactive. Most property owners would fall under the reactive category for various reasons, including time constraints and budget. These property owners ignore the roof system until minor problems that could have been detected earlier result in expensive damages — by which point it may already be too late. In certain parts of the United States, precipitation is not a year-round threat, so roof issues can be out of sight and out of mind until they later present themselves at inconvenient times. It goes without saying that there is something left to be desired by this approach. Despite many owners taking reactive approaches to roof inspections, others are finding that a proactive approach is better suited to their needs. Roof inspection requests are thus increasing nationwide, with requests coming from:

● Residential and commercial property owners in escrow
● Those establishing a cause of loss for an insurance claim
● People shopping for property insurance or attempting to secure a loan

● Owners who just want to be informed

The final category in particular indicates that some owners are becoming more proactive, trying to determine what their roofing needs may be before a minor problem becomes a disaster. However, even though they may prefer to be proactive, many owners are at a loss for what to look for when attempting to prevent and fix roofing issues. There are fewer components to a roof system than a pepperoni pizza, but owners are rarely roofing professional themselves. In completing roofing inspections, roofing professionals must “think like a raindrop,” as rain often precipitates the discovery of roofing problems. Our job is to educate owners on their roofs’ conditions to help them make informed decisions.

Roof Inspections: Benefits and Types


Roof inspections are critical in establishing a baseline for the overall care plan for a roof. It is true that roof issues may be picked up on a property/building inspection report; however, these reports usually contain limited remarks made by a generalist with a recommendation to have the roof further evaluated by a licensed roofing specialist. A proper inspection helps achieve RoofAssurance ™.

There are two main types of roof inspections currently offered on the market. The first is a free inspection. This service provides a free estimate to clients who, in many cases, are already dealing with an active roofing problem. These reactive owners are a target for higher-than- average quotes due to the immediate need for work. In addition, this “free” service is typically limited in scope — the company typically only inspects approximately 20 percent of the roof (rooftop only), and the owner will, at best, receive a simple estimate on company letterhead. Costs may therefore grow as the roofing work proceeds and more problems are found with the roofing system. A Roof inspectors goal should be to effectively and confidently determine the integrity of the roof system. This can’t be accomplished only inspecting 20% of the system excluding the interior components of the structure.

The other type of inspection is a paid service with prices ranging from $300 to a few thousand dollars depending on the property’s size and the purpose of the inspection. The national average for an average-sized roof inspection is $350 for a LeakFREE ™ Roof Inspection and $475 for a ForensicROOF ™ Inspection. Because situations vary, the amounts of effort or time spent during the inspection significantly impacts the pricing. The investigation process in these inspections is much more detailed, starting from the inside out. There are hidden components to all roof systems that can’t be observed from the rooftop, such as the waterproof underlayment, mechanical fasteners, and moisture stains. This type of paid inspection should come with a comprehensive written report and a proposal package without an additional fee. The choice of whether to apply a portion or all of the inspection fee to work later completed is up to the contractor.

You may ask: “What is the difference if a licensed roofing company completes both types of inspections?” To help explain the difference to customers, I’ll share a short personal story. I like to golf. I’m not very good at it, but I enjoy the game. Each time I golf, I usually have a few good shots, and these keep me returning for another round of frustration. I was interested in purchasing a new set of clubs a few years ago. I could either go to a golf shop or attend free demo events to try out the manufacturer’s latest and greatest products. However, these events left me feeling like I was just being sold random golf clubs without truly finding out what I needed to succeed. Instead, I chose to pay for a professional fitting so I could find out what clubs would work the best for me. In addition, a portion of the fitting cost would be applied to a set of clubs if I decided to purchase them after the fitting. Similarly, when it comes to the roofing industry, you pay for what you get. Contractors offering free services want to close deals, sell roofs, and move on to their next free appointment. However, a paid roof inspection brings much more value to the client, as the inspector is paid for his time, knowledge, expertise, and transparent documentation.


Following a simple process is the key to producing comprehensive, detail-oriented, and informative inspections that not only correctly educate clients but also bring in revenue. A service-first attitude and transparent process helps increase job conversion. Stepping into a new service may seem daunting, but my advice is to try not to overcomplicate things. Inspecting a roof system is not difficult as long as you “think like a raindrop.”

Inspecting Roofs the NRCIA Way


An NRCIA-Certified Roof Inspector investigates five different zones of the structure: the interior, attic, exterior, perimeter, and rooftop. In addition, they will ask themselves three main questions:

1. Is the roof currently leaking?
2. Does the roof have a likelihood of leaking?
3. Is the roof system repairable should a leak occur within two years (average certification
period)?

If you have training and roofing experience, these points should be relatively easy to identify. Of course, there are times when a further exploratory inspection is required when roof trauma is not observable at a leak location. Exploratory inspections (in which a roof may require opening to find the faulty area) are a separate service and should be billed accordingly. A roof inspector should not cause any damage while inspecting a roof system, and should instead leave no trace that they were ever present. Once you have identified key issues, you will have to document them in a way that can tell a story to the client. Photo documentation and software technology is essential to staying ahead of the competition. Taking photos of the various inspection zones is the primary building block to creating a good report for the owner. A roof should last at least two years after an inspection, along with any necessary repairs, are completed. Suppose the roof’s remaining serviceable life is less than two years — in that case, a complete roof replacement should be professionally recommended and presented in a way the owner can respect and agree with.

Comprehensive Roof Inspection Reporting

The easiest way to do this is by providing a photo-centric inspection report that indicates:
1. The roofing red flags you observed and implications if those deficiencies are not
corrected.
2. The cause of the red flag (i.e., deferred maintenance, workmanship defect, normal wear
and tear, storm-related damage, etc.).
3. How to properly repair or replace the deficiency.

Providing a well-written, photo-centric report will help clarify the need for restorative work, explain the location of the roof deficiencies, and support job conversion as the owners can see exactly how the inspector came to their determination. These reports are a great resource to review if a reinspection is requested or if you are selected to perform additional roof work later on.

Final Words of Advice


Keep in mind that we, as roofing professionals, are in the service industry. By focusing everyday on being a service to others, the client will know you are there to serve their best interests and a sale will ultimately follow. Remember to:

● Serve first.
● Follow the inspection process in five zones: interior, attic (if accessible), exterior, perimeter, and rooftop.
● Stand out from your competition and inspect 100 percent of the roof system.
● Evaluate, educate, and document.
● Take pictures that can educate the client.

Paul J. Watrous is president of the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association (NRCIA).

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