The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends a roof inspection twice a year for residential and commercial buildings.
In Florida, property owners and property managers should schedule a roof inspection at specific times of the year:
- Before rainy season begins: April or May
- After rainy season ends: October, November or December
Why twice? The first one ensures your roof is ready for what’s to come – intense UV rays, scorching heat, torrential downpours and, if there is a tropical storm or hurricane, high winds and flying debris. The second roof inspection is equivalent to a wellness check that evaluates how your roof fared during the summer.
Every type of commercial and residential roof should be inspected twice annually. Flat, tile, shingle and metal roofs can all sustain damage during rainy season. A good roof protects assets and lives. That’s why it’s so important to keep a roof in tip-top shape.
LEARN MORE: Why choose Lloyd Roofing?
Impact of Rainy Season
Florida summers are brutal. We feel it, and so does your roof. On hot, sunny days, the surface of a roof can easily reach 125 to 140 degrees. Attic spaces can be just as hot. These kinds of temperatures can break down any type of roofing material over time.
Now, throw in the rain. Afternoon thunderstorms can drop an inch or two of rain in an hour. Since the rate of accumulation can overwhelm engineered ditches and drains, it certainly can overwhelm a roof. Roofs that are properly designed and installed should channel water into gutters and downspouts, and away from the structure. However, low-lying spots or accumulations of organic matter can cause ponding. That can have devastating results on a roof.
Heat can loosen adhesives that keep shingles, tiles and roofing membranes locked into place. Once those seals are broken, water can damage decking and underlayment. High temperatures, combined with sunshine, can cause roof tiles to dry out and crack over time. A roof also can experience thermal shock when temperatures rapidly drop during a sudden downpour.
Flying debris is most associated with tropical storms and hurricanes. Thunderstorms can produce tropical storm-force winds that can send branches, twigs and leaves onto a roof. While significant damage is typically isolated to named tropical systems, debris can clog gutters, downspouts and drainage systems designed to channel water off the roof.
READ MORE: Roof slope, design critical in resisting hurricane damage
The Basics: Your Roof Inspection
Lloyd Roofing employs experienced roof inspectors trained to spot imperfections on all types of roofs. They do not try to “upsell” customers by recommending unnecessary repairs or services. Honesty and integrity are among the company’s core values, along with quality, professionalism and service.
Causes for concern during a roof inspection are cracks or chips in tiles, missing screws or nails, dislodged tiles or shingles, buckled spots, areas where ponding has occurred, worn-down adhesives and other imperfections. Inspectors will conduct their assessment from the ground, the roof and even from above with assistance from drone technology. Inspectors also may enter a home or business to inspect attic spaces.
Inspectors thoroughly examine all parts of a roofing system, including:
- Primary coverings (tiles, shingles, metal and membranes)
- Underlayment
- Decking
- Gutters
- Downspouts
- Drip edges
- Fascia
- Soffits
- Joists
- Flashing
- Seams
- Vents
- Insulation
After a roof inspection, property owners and property managers will receive a written report. This document will note any damage and include photos, as well as a detailed repair estimate.
READ MORE: How to find reputable roofers after hurricanes and tropical storms
Schedule a Roof Inspection
In the fine print, many manufacturers require an annual or semi-annual roof inspection to maintain the original warranty. Skipping an inspection could mean a property owner must foot the entire bill for a roof repair or replacement.
Looking for a trustworthy roofing contractor to provide an inspection? CONTACT US to get started.
