The typical roof is made to last around 20 years before requiring replacement. During this time, frequent roof inspection procedures are essential for safety and structural stability. This is especially true in areas like Beaverton due to constant moisture, acidic rain, and trees that shed debris and foliage.
Roof inspections come with all sorts of strange stories and practices attached to them. From tales of how much the inspector will charge to the number of nails he’ll leave behind on your roof, the rumors are all over the place.
To help ease your mind, we’re going to clear up some of these common misconceptions right now. Read on to learn what you can expect during a roof inspection in Portland.
What’s Included in a Roof Inspection?
When you need a roof inspection in Portland, OR, you can expect a comprehensive exam from a qualified roofing contractor.
They will inspect your roof for any signs of damage or wear and tear, and provide you with a written estimate of the repair or replacement costs. In addition, they can provide you with a list of recommended maintenance measures to help extend the life of your roof.
An Experienced & Knowledgable Roofing Professional
First, we will send you a photo of the roofing technician that will be coming to your home. This will let you know who to expect so that you can easily identify them. Note that all our contractors are certified, drug tested, and trained to provide a high level of security.
A roof inspection can help you catch problems early before they become larger and more expensive to fix. It can also give you peace of mind, knowing that your roof is in good condition and is not going to cause any problems in the near future. A knowledgeable and experienced roof contractor can give you accurate assessments of potential problems with your roof.
Proper safety equipment is always in use to prevent any accidents or injuries. While taking appropriate precautions, the technician will come to your home and thoroughly inspect several elements of your roof.
1. Attic/Roof Ventilation
Improper attic ventilation can lead to increased heat and moisture in your home. In Portland’s climate, attic roof ventilation is most important in the summer to help keep the attic cooler and prevent heat build-up. In the winter, it’s also important to have some attic roof ventilation to help prevent ice dams from forming on the roof.
Improper ventilation can lead to mold/fungus issues that are ultimately detrimental to your health. A roof inspector will thoroughly examine your ventilation to reduce inconsistent temperatures, prevent mold, stop ice, and increase energy efficiency to lower your bills.
Ultimately, this also leads to your roof lasting longer than it otherwise would. It improves durability and ensures that your home is free of hazards.
2. Condition of the Roofing Material
The condition of your roofing material is important for many reasons. For starters, it affects the way your home looks. If your roofing material is in good condition, your home will look well-maintained from the outside.
Furthermore, the condition of your roofing material affects your home’s energy efficiency. If your roofing material is in good condition, it will be better able to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Additionally, the condition of your roofing material can affect your insurance rates. If your
roofing material is in good condition, you may be eligible for a discount on your homeowner’s insurance. Finally, the condition of your roofing material can affect the resale value of your home. If your roofing material is in good condition, your home will be more attractive to potential buyers.
A roof inspector will take an expert eye to your roofing material. Whether your roof is made from shingles, metal, or wood, they will let you know what shape it is in and how you should proceed. You may need to get minor repairs now to increase its overall lifespan and save money.
3. Evidence of Water Intrusion
Water intrusion is any water that enters a structure through an uninvited opening in the roof. It can cause many different types of damage to a structure depending on the amount of water, the type of water, the length of time the water is allowed to remain, and the temperature of the water.
There are many different types of water intrusion, but the most common is rainwater. Rainwater can enter a structure through roof leaks and openings that are not properly sealed.
Once rainwater enters a structure, it can cause damage to the walls, floors, ceilings, and personal belongings. Rainwater can also cause mold-related health problems for the occupants of a structure if the water is contaminated.
At Roof Life of Oregon, we will find the source and provide you with the best options to fix the issue. In order to get this information that will protect yourself and your belongings, you’ll need a professional with experience in roof damage to tell you when you need repairs.
4. Decking
Our roof inspectors also double as decking inspection professionals. They will be able to identify any potential problems with your deck and provide you with a report detailing their findings.
If you are having problems with your deck, or are thinking about having one built, it is a good idea to contact a roofing inspection professional to ensure that everything is up to code and will be safe for use. Those who have the certification to examine roofing also are knowledgeable in decking since the two are heavily connected.
5. Skylights, Vents, and Pipes
Skylights, vents, and pipes serve as penetrations in your roofing. While they are supposed to be there and are great features to have in your home, they also can cause leakage when they aren’t well-maintained.
Maintaining these features is crucial to the proper functioning of your home, and if they are not properly maintained, they can lead to serious ventilation problems. A qualified inspector will be able to check your skylight for any potential issues and make sure that these items are in good condition.
6. Chimney (Where Applicable)
Chimney inspection and ventilation are important for the safety of your home. A properly functioning chimney will remove smoke and fumes from your home, keeping your family safe from harmful toxins.
We provide a variety of chimney repair services:
- Identifying and repairing chimney leaks
- Applying mortar crowns
- Fixing chimney caps
- Tuck-pointing (replacing mortar)
- Brick replacement
- Flashing (closing the gaps where the roof and chimney meet)
A chimney inspection will ensure that your chimney is free from debris and other obstructions that could cause a fire or similar safety hazard.
7. Gutters
Poorly designed, clogged, or failing gutters can add unwanted stress to your roof, shortening its lifespan.
A gutter inspection is a simple way to ensure that your gutters are clean and free of debris. This is done by using a ladder to gain access to the roof and then using a flashlight to inspect the gutters. Professionals have the safety skills to execute this process safely.
This is a critical facet of any roof inspection because you can see if there are any leaks or damage that could lead to further problems. This is especially important in Portland where there is a lot of rainfall. By taking the time to inspect your gutters, you can avoid potentially costly repairs in the future.
A Video Recording of the Entire Inspection
We provide each potential customer with a high-resolution video of the in-depth inspection done by our technician. This type of transparency and honesty is something Roof Life Oregon takes pride in. It is a brand differentiator that builds trust between inspection professionals and homeowners.
It also serves as a run-down of your inspection’s results. Included in each video are explanations of the issues presented, solutions, as well as breakdowns of the associated roof inspection cost. This informs you of what steps to take next and helps you determine what questions to ask your roof inspector.
Schedule a Well-Care Checkup Today
If you’re in need of a reliable roof inspection in Portland, OR, you can count on our highly qualified team. With decades of experience, we know what to look for and can provide you with a detailed report of our findings.
We’re proud to offer honest, affordable roof inspections and will work with you to ensure your home is in top condition. Contact us today with any remaining questions that you have and to request a quote for your project.