What parts of a roof inspection can I do myself?

Facility managers can benefit from knowing what a professional roofing contractor is going to be looking at – and looking for – when they’re on your roof performing an inspection. Over time, you can learn to detect problem areas starting to form. And maybe even what to do about them.

Most evaluations start with CAD drawings based on aerial photographs. This streamlines field inspection since the technician will then only need to verify the information.

Next, a visual inspection is performed and data is captured that can include roof type, age, size, pitch, composition, layers and projections, plus anomalies are identified and documented.

Data is captured that can include roof type, age, size, pitch, composition, layers and projections, plus anomalies are identified and documented.

Infrared scans will be done, if needed, to determine the presence of wet insulation. Trapped moisture can damage the roof system, decking and even the roof structure. Plus, wet insulation can result in higher energy costs.

Penetrations are given the greatest attention on the roof. That’s where the majority of leaks can occur. All inspections are customized to the type of roof system on your building. But generally speaking, the following areas are evaluated:

So, can some of this be done “in-house”? Of course. In fact, it’s recommended that a self-inspection be done after major  weather events and as part of your routine maintenance of the building.

However twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall, it’s prudent to have your roofs professionally inspected. Studies show that facility managers who make semi-annual professional inspections part of their routine experience a clear savings in overall roof maintenance costs over time.

Identifying and heading off small issues before they become bigger problems beats the run-to-failure model every time.

Does your roof have any of these issues?

Contact us to learn more about Simon Roofing’s inspection services!