Roof Inspection Checklist

Full Roof Inspection Checklist Explained

Here’s a deeper breakdown of what each part of a full inspection involves and what your roofer is looking for.

Exterior Roof Surface: First Line of Defense

1. Shingle Condition:
   We assess for common signs of aging and damage, like curling, cracking, blistering, or missing shingles. Granule loss is especially concerning, as it indicates UV and weather exposure has compromised the asphalt layer. This is often the first visual cue that your asphalt shingle roof is nearing the end of its life.
2. Metal Roofing Panels:
   Metal roofing systems, while durable, are not immune to failure. Our inspection checks for panel separation, exposed fasteners, corrosion (especially around seams), and areas where expansion or contraction may have stressed the roof.
3. Tile, Slate, or Composite Materials:
   Cracked or displaced tile roofing and composite slate systems require immediate repair. Tiles can break under foot traffic, while composite systems must maintain bonding strength and seal integrity to prevent underlayment exposure.
4. Roof Penetrations & Flashing:
   These are the #1 source of leaks. We examine all roof penetrations, including chimneys, plumbing stacks, skylights, and vents, for rusted flashing, open seams, and worn sealants. According to industry reports, over 90% of roof leaks originate from flashing-related issues.
5. Valleys and Ridges:
   These high-flow areas often suffer from granule erosion and accelerated aging. Debris buildup here can redirect water under shingles, leading to deck rot. Our inspection clears debris and verifies that water is shedding properly.

Roof Perimeter & Drainage: Managing Water Flow

1. Gutters and Downspouts:
   Clean, correctly pitched gutters protect fascia, siding, and foundations. We inspect for sagging, separation at seams, and downspouts that discharge too close to the structure. Blocked systems can backflow water onto the roof deck, reducing shingle life and promoting leaks.
2. Drip Edge and Eaves:
   Improperly installed drip edge is a common oversight in roof installation. We verify that it overlaps under the starter shingle and properly channels water into gutters. Rotting fascia boards are a sign of failure here.
3. Overhangs and Soffits:
   These areas offer critical attic ventilation and protection from rain splash. Mold, peeling paint, or signs of pests may indicate trapped moisture or compromised airflow. We ensure soffit vents are clear and undamaged.
4. Flat Roof Drainage:
   On flat or low-slope systems like TPO or modified bitumen roofing, we check for ponding water and blocked scuppers. Just ½ inch of standing water can weigh up to 5 pounds per square foot, a serious load over time that can damage membrane seams.

Interior Roof Inspection: Hidden Threats Beneath the Surface

1. Roof Deck and Rafters:
   Our attic inspection checks for water stains, mold, soft decking, or signs of sagging. If decking has delaminated or softened, it may need partial or full roof replacement.
2. Insulation Moisture:
   Wet insulation loses R-value and can promote mold growth. If insulation near roof penetrations is wet or matted, we use moisture meters to trace the leak’s origin.
3. Attic Ventilation and Airflow:
   An unventilated attic overheats in summer, causing premature shingle failure, and traps moisture in winter. We inspect ridge vents, gable vents, and soffit intake for blockages or damage.
4. Interior Ceilings & Walls:
   Stains, sagging drywall, or bubbling paint are visual proof of long-term leaks. If visible, they usually indicate damage that extends well into the attic.