Why Regularly Inspecting a Roof Is Crucial for Property Maintenance

We know that a roof isn’t just a shelter over your head; it’s a key component of your home or business that keeps you safe, warm, and dry.

But, have you ever thought about how much your roof goes through every year? Hot summers, chilling winters, hailstorms, and not to mention, the occasional tree branch falling onto it! It’s essential to give your roof the TLC it deserves, and that’s why we want to chat with you about the importance of regular roof repairs and inspections.

The Importance of Catching Issues Early

Just like you go for regular check-ups to the doctor, your roof needs its own kind of medical attention. Small issues can become major headaches down the line if you neglect them. A minor leak can turn into water damage, affecting your ceilings, walls, and even your electrical system. And let’s not even talk about the added costs when things spiral out of control!

Extending The Life of Your Roof

You made a significant investment in your roof, so why not make it last? Regular inspections can add years to the life of your roof by spotting problems like missing shingles, loose nails, or tiny leaks that you can easily fix before they become disasters.

Energy Savings

A well-maintained roof doesn’t just keep out rain and snow; it also keeps your home well-insulated. That means lower energy bills for you! A damaged or deteriorating roof lets out heat in the winter and lets in heat during the summer, making your house and heating and cooling systems work overtime.

Insurance Claims

Did you know that some insurance policies can become void if your roof isn’t adequately maintained? An annual inspection can be a small price to pay compared to a rejected insurance claim after your roof suffered damage during a major storm.

Peace of Mind

Last but not least, the peace of mind you’ll have knowing your own roofing company is in top-notch condition is priceless. You won’t lie awake during the next thunderstorm, wondering if every creak and drip you hear is causing damage.

How Often Should You Schedule a Roof Inspection?

Residential Roofing

For most homeowners, an annual roof inspection is generally sufficient. This yearly check-up allows you to catch potential problems early and to stay ahead of maintenance needs. However, if your area has been hit by severe weather like a hailstorm or a tornado, it’s advisable to have a post-storm inspection to assess any damages.

Commercial Roofing

For commercial buildings, the guidelines can be a bit different. Due to the complexities of roofing companies and the types of materials often used in commercial roofing systems, semi-annual inspections (every spring and fall) are usually recommended. Regular check-ups can also be crucial for warranty claims, which are often much stricter for commercial roofs.

After Major Weather Events

Mother Nature doesn’t stick to schedules, and neither should you when it comes to scheduling roof inspections after significant weather events. After a heavy storm, hailstorm, or even strong winds, it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection to ensure your roof hasn’t suffered damage that could lead to more significant issues down the line.

When Buying or Selling Property

Are you on the market to buy a new home or looking to sell your current one? Then, a thorough roof inspection should definitely be on your checklist. The last thing you want is to purchase a home only to discover it needs a new roof, or conversely, to have a sale fall through because the prospective buyer found roofing issues during the home inspection.

Older Roofs

If your roof is over 20 years old and hasn’t been inspected in a while, it might be time for a thorough evaluation. Older roofs are more susceptible to wear and tear, and you don’t want to wait until you’re dealing with water damage to realize it’s time for repairs or even a complete roof replacement.

Should you hire a contractor to inspect your roof?

Absolutely, hiring a professional contractor for your roof inspection is a wise move. While DIY check-ups might catch obvious issues like missing shingles, a trained eye can spot subtler, more complex problems that you may overlook. These can include early signs of water damage, potential weaknesses that could worsen over time, or even issues that could void your warranty if not addressed.

What does an Oklahoma City roof inspection include?

We know our unique climate and weather conditions can be tough on roofs, which is why a comprehensive roof inspection guide, is crucial for maintaining the health of your property.

Structural Inspection

We’ll start by assessing the overall structural integrity of your roof. This more thorough inspection includes checking for any sagging areas, which could be indicative of underlying issues that need immediate attention. We’ll also inspect the condition of your roof’s soffit, fascia, and gutter systems to ensure everything is functioning as it should.

Material Examination

Oklahoma weather can be harsh on roofing materials. We’ll do proper roof inspections to look for missing, damaged, or curled shingles, as well as any wear and tear on metal roofing or other types of materials you may have. In addition, we’ll inspect the rubber boots and seals around vent pipes and chimneys to make sure there are no gaps or deterioration.

Interior Checks

We don’t just make interior inspections to stop at the exterior; we also head inside to your attic to check for signs of water damage, mold, or poor insulation. Moisture in the attic can lead to more severe issues if not addressed promptly.

Ventilation and Insulation Review

Proper ventilation and insulation are critical for prolonging the lifespan of your roof and improving your home’s energy efficiency. We’ll check to ensure that your roof’s ventilation is adequate and that your entire roof and insulation is in good shape.

Drainage Assessment

Effective drainage is crucial to avoid water damage. We’ll ensure that your gutters and downspouts are free from debris and functioning correctly to direct water away from your home.

Final Report and Recommendations

After the inspection, we’ll provide you with a detailed report outlining our findings, complete with photos and recommendations for roof repairs or maintenance. This report can be invaluable for insurance claims, property sales, or simply for your peace of mind.

How Much Does a Roof Inspection Cost?

The cost of a roof inspection can vary based on several factors such as the size of your roof, its complexity, and location. However, for a standard residential property in Oklahoma City, Mustang, or Norman, you can typically expect to spend anywhere from $150 to $300. Commercial properties may incur higher costs due to the additional complexities involved in fall roof inspection. It’s a small investment when you consider the peace of mind you’ll gain and the potential savings from catching issues before they become significant problems.

If you’re in our neck of the woods and have been considering getting your roof inspected, don’t hesitate to contact us at Robbins Roofing. With over 40 years of experience in risk-free roof inspections, we’re committed to providing you with a thorough, honest assessment of your roof’s condition. Take the first step in extending the life of your roof and protecting your property—schedule an inspection with us today!