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How Often Should Your Roof Be Inspected
September 21st, 2023
Determining the appropriate frequency of roofing inspections is not what you would call an exact science. There are a number of factors that will influence how often your roof should be inspected from the materials used in its construction to the age of the roof, not to mention the impact of weather such as wind, snow, rain, and sun. As the homeowner, you should ideally commit yourself to giving your roof a quick once over at least twice a year where you look for signs of damage, but you will also want to schedule regular professional roof inspections. Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors you should consider when determining how often your roof should be inspected.
Roofing Components
The most common exterior component of your roof is likely a layer of shingles – generally these are made from asphalt or wood. But, there are many other roofing materials including metal roofs, ceramic tiles, and more. Additionally, your roof is composed of more than that external layer; and all these components require regular inspections and maintenance. For example, a roof is held up by trusses that are then covered by a sheeting material to provide the main structural support for your roof. Then of course there is an underlay upon which this exterior surface (i.e. singles) are installed. Additionally, roofing features are surrounded by flashing and you will have gutters that need to be inspected as well. So, while a homeowner may be well poised to identify superficial signs of damage or deterioration, only a qualified professional will have the skills to thoroughly inspect your roof.
Inspection Schedules
One of the most obvious times to schedule regular inspections is after the harshest season in your climate. Many homeowners want to know how their roofs have held up to winter weather or stormy seasons. And it’s true, scheduling inspections after severe weather can help prevent future damage and ensure your roof is in good condition. Alternatively, some professionals recommend inspections just before you expect the worst weather – once again, this helps to ensure your roof is in good stead for the coming harsh weather. However, these shoulder seasons also tend to be busier for roofers and inspections may cost more.
Still, perhaps the main factor that influences how often your roof needs inspection is the materials used in its construction. Depending on the type of material, you can expect different rates of deterioration. More specifically, guidelines dictate that asphalt, composite, and wood shingle roofs should be professionally inspected every 1-3 years, depending on the age of the roof. Older roofs should be inspected more frequently. On the other hand, a ceramic tile roof may reliably protect your home with inspections scheduled every 3-5 years, again depending on the age of your roof.
As you can see, there are many factors that influence how often your roof should be inspected, but there’s no question that regular inspection can extend the lifespan of your roof and prevent leaks that cause damage to interior structures. And one more point to note – if you are not confident managing your own twice-yearly checks, don’t hesitate to work with a professional.
