If you live in Florida, a roofing inspection is not only a prerequisite for the sake of maintenance, but it may even save a life. Florida is known to be a hurricane region that has gusts of winding reaching an excess of 150 mph. If your roof is not a sound structure during one of the storms, you may have more damage than anticipated.
Regular roof inspections will identify a small problem that could result in a larger problem. Due to the extreme sun, wind, and rain in Florida; a small fault could expand exponentially.
Roofing Inspections in Florida
Insurance companies require roof inspections to be done before they provide insurance. This is because roof repairs can be quite costly. After hurricane Andrew hit Florida, which had winds reaching 165 mph, insurance companies have been encouraging home owners to do regular inspections in order to reduce claims and improve overall safety.
A roof inspection constitutes one of the four points of the “Four Point Inspection” amongst HVAC, electrical wiring and panels, and plumbing connections. Homes older than 25 years older are required to get the inspection done.
Tips to Pass Your Roofing Inspection
A roof inspection should be a preventative maintenance job that is done once a year. With this in mind, it is important to have your roof ready to pass an inspection. Here are a few easy ways to prepare yourself.
Ensure that all leaks in the roof are sealed properly. A leak can give way to a far larger problem by allowing water to seep in to the roof and damage the structure. Early signs of a leaks are easy to spot. You may note darker areas on your ceiling, or paint beginning to peel underneath your roof overhang. Water stains on pipes are also a clear sign of a potential leak.
Check your drainage system and make sure that everything is in top shape. Roof gutters play an important role in keeping the foundation of your home in proper condition. This is done by ensuring that the downspouts are directing water away from the home – this is particularly relevant in Florida where there are heavy rains during the stormy season. If your gutters are not thick enough or long enough, you may need to make amendments. An effective roof drain installation can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Look out for any rust spots or cracks, bucking shingles, missing or broken shingles, a damaged chimney and large amounts of moss (which hints at roofing decay). If you spot any of these warning signs, it is wise to get a roofing inspector in early enough to prevent further damage.
Benefits of a Roof Inspection
There are several benefits to be gained from a roof inspection that will help with the structural integrity of your roof, and entire home.
A roof inspection will indicate an estimation of the roof’s remaining years of life, provide a summary of any repairs that may be required, and give a roof certificate for any future sale or purchase. A roof certificate indicates that a roof has a future life expectancy of at least two to five years.
It is recommended that your roof undergoes inspection at least once a year. By doing so, you ensure that your home is as protected against potential damage and deterioration. Following these guidelines for passing your roof inspection should leave you well in the clear. If you notice any potential problems, call your local residential roofing contractors to assist.
