The Importance of Inspecting Roofs and Gutters

Roof and gutter inspections are critical components of homeownership. Unfortunately, they often go overlooked. Most people neglect inspections until an issue arises before giving the top of their house any attention. Or they wait until it is time to sell and hope that nothing turns up. Although the risks of these approaches are fairly obvious, they nonetheless tend to be the norm. Keep reading as we discuss the importance of proactive roof maintenance and how regular roof and gutter inspections are vital components of the process. 

Uncovers Structural Issues

Roofing is one of the most important components of the building envelope. It is the home’s first line of defense against the forces of nature. Any issues with the roof will almost always carry over to other structural elements of the home, such as framing and foundation. As such, regular roof inspections keep you ahead of any ongoing maintenance issues with the home.

In addition to its protective properties, roofing plays a critical role in promoting the home’s energy efficiency. Along with sustainable insulation, airtight joints, and quality ductwork, the roof helps prevent unwanted air transfer between the interior and exterior of the house. This can lower utility bills and minimize the home’s environmental impact. 

Prevents Water Damage

Clogged gutters and degraded roofing materials create an environment ripe for water damage. Unfortunately, water-related issues are insidious. Without regular inspection, water damage often won’t rear its head until the effects are debilitating.

If caught early, many small leaks can be solved by applying a water sealant or replacing damaged shingles. However, more extensive trauma may require complete replacement of the roofing substrate and installation of a new roof and gutter infrastructure. 

Keeps You Ahead of Costly Repairs

As with all matters related to homeownership, preventive maintenance is far more cost effective than fixing acute damage. A routine roof/gutter inspection and cleaning will only cost a few hundred dollars and a couple hours out of your day. Overlooked issues that deteriorate over time can run into the 5 figures and may make sections of your home inaccessible while the repair work is performed. 

Boosts Curb Appeal

There is a definite “out of sight, out of mind” relationship that many homeowners have with their roof. Remote professionals might not get out frequently enough to see their roof from a streetside view. Others may get a bit of tunnel vision with their daily routine and only see the roof from one specific angle.

However, it is unlikely that these issues will go unnoticed by passersby. Standing debris, hanging gutters, or discolored shingles will stand out like a sore thumb to those giving your home a streetside appraisal. By performing regular roof and gutter inspections, you can ensure that the roof is doing its part to boost the curb appeal of your property. 

Promotes Home Value

A roof in good condition is a great way to boost the value of a home. This is especially true in the northern Illinois region, which faces the gamut of weather conditions: cold, snowy, and windy in the winter; hot and humid in the summer. If a buyer can look at a roof and know that they are set indefinitely, it is sure to enhance the value of the home over those properties whose roofs will need immediate attention upon closing. 

Tips for Successful Roof Inspections

With the importance of regular roof and gutter inspections established, let’s take a moment to discuss some best practices for carrying out the process.

Collect Necessary Equipment

Like any job, a successful roof and gutter inspection begins with collecting the necessary tools. Make sure you have ladders, brooms, and flashlights to access the roof and unveil any hidden areas. Have ample personal protective equipment such as harnesses, knee pads, hard hats, and safety goggles. If your home is multi-story and you do not feel like you have the necessary equipment or know-how to do the job yourself, contact a home inspection company. They will have the necessary scaffolding for construction and expertise to reach the most difficult areas of your roof.

Perform a Walk-Around

Getting a 360-degree view of the roof is crucial. As mentioned, too many homeowners only see the roof from a specific vantage point. Whether it be a section hidden beneath a shade tree or a side of the house abutting a neighbor’s yard, it is important to remember that large amounts of roof surface area are hard to see on a day-to-day basis. Drone photography is a trendy new technology that can help homeowners get a comprehensive view of their roof from all angles. 

Assess Ventilation

The quality of the roof includes more than just the surface materials. Ventilation is an important component that ensures the ongoing functionality of the roofing system. Make sure the attic is well sealed and insulated to prevent mold and rot formation due to trapped humidity. Look into the best soffit material for your roof type to ensure adequate airflow through the roofing system. 

Make a Decision on Care

A roof and gutter inspection will ultimately result in an action decision. Hopefully, the roof is in good shape. If it does need attention, decide whether to fix it yourself or hire a professional. Remember, inadequate roof maintenance, such as improper pressure washing, can actually do more harm than good, so it may be worthwhile to partner with a professional service to ensure the roof’s ongoing viability. 

Be Proactive with Roof and Gutter Inspections

Regular roof and gutter inspections should be a routine part of home maintenance. A proactive approach can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. If you live in the northern Illinois area and need some additional guidance on inspecting your roof and gutters, contact Bee Sure Home Inspection Services for a consultation today!

Author Bio

Brian Jeffries is a freelance writer who loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on construction projects and materials. He lives in Winter Park, Florida where he enjoys spending time with his wife and working on projects in his spare time. Brian’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.