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. 

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Are you worried about your roof?  You probably should be.  Ok, maybe you needn’t worry, but you shouldn’t ignore it either.  Your roof is arguably the most structurally important feature of your home.  It’s not only what ultimately provides you shelter, but it is also responsible for much of your home’s structural integrity.  A well-maintained roof is one that protects your family and belongings from all kinds of inclement weather.  So, how often should you inspect your roof?

Daily exposure to the elements – sun, rain, wind, and snow – will take its toll on even the most advanced roofing system.  Most roofs are expected to last a maximum of 25 to 30 years, and to get the most from your roofing warranty, regular maintenance is a necessity.  Indeed, regular inspections allow for regular maintenance which will ultimately extend the life of your roof.  Without proper maintenance, some roofs will lose half or more of their lifespan; so even though there is a cost associated with professional inspection and repair, keeping on top of roof maintenance will actually save you money in the long run.

More importantly, many roof warranties stipulate that regular maintenance is required or the warranty is voided.  This applies to both commercial and residential roofing systems, so whether you’re a home owner or a business owner, you want to take roof maintenance seriously.  Typically, roofing professionals will tell you that twice annual inspections are the way to go.  This is especially true in climates where there are distinct seasons, particularly if you’re in an area that gets harsh winters. 

So then, when should you have your roof inspected?  In a perfect world, you want to bookend your inspections around the season with the most severe weather – typically winter.  Why?  It’s simple.  You want to make sure that your roof is ready to withstand all that Mother Nature has to offer before that season starts.  And when that season is finished, you want to be sure that your roof has survived without sustaining significant damage.  Plus, as a side-benefit, discovering roofing damage in the off-season (when roofers are least busy) means you can conduct repairs at a much more affordable rate.  On the other hand, if you wait until winter and you discover significant leaks in your roof, repairs will be significantly more costly.

Finally, a quick note on who should conduct inspections is warranted.  It is always advisable to work with a professional roofer for inspections.  Not only do they have the skills and expertise to thoroughly assess your roof for damage, they also have the required equipment to do the job efficiently and safely.  Remember, the modest cost of regular maintenance will most definitely save you when it comes to replacement and repair in the future.

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