Roofing inspections complement scheduled maintenance appointments. Together, they help make sure that your roof is in its best condition, and can make the difference between minor repairs and an unplanned roof replacement when a storm hits your area. In today’s post, local roofing company Earl W. Johnston Roofing discusses the best time to have your roof inspected.
Inspections Vs. Maintenance
While the terms “inspections” and “maintenance” are often used interchangeably, they are two different activities that serve different purposes. To use a medical analogy, roofing maintenance is the equivalent of an annual physical — it’s comprehensive, conducted regularly, and can help your doctor spot signs of a potential problem. Comparatively, an inspection is something that you can do at home and involves activities like checking your pulse rate.
In roofing terms, you can inspect your own roof or have a professional do it. If you choose to do it yourself, all you will need is a pair of binoculars and something to record your observations, such as a notepad or your phone. The objective is to inspect every inch of the rooftop, paying attention to signs of damage and missing components, and taking note of areas that require repair. Professionals offer certain advantages such as thorough inspections, and is the best option if you are not sure what to look for.
When Should You Schedule a Roof Inspection?
If you are sticking to your annual maintenance appointments or have signed a maintenance agreement, then inspections should be conducted about six months after your last maintenance appointment. If you have a new roof, regular inspections are important during the first two years. This is the period where manufacturing defects and installation errors become apparent, and can be corrected through your warranty coverage.
A roofing inspection should also be conducted right after a storm hits your area, even when there is no apparent damage to the roof. Small problems like minor leaks or lifted shingles can become bigger problems if not addressed sooner.
Earl W. Johnston Roofing provides residential and commercial roofing services to clients in Ft. Lauderdale and Hollywood, Florida. To learn more about what we can do for your roof, give us a call at (954) 989-7794. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.