Reasons To Consider A Professional Roof Inspection After A Storm
A well-built roof acts as the first line of defense against the various outdoor elements. However, nature is unpredictable. A strong storm can affect even the most robust roofing systems. Seasonal storms can prove catastrophic for your roof, causing severe damage. Undetected or unassessed roof storm damage compromises its ability to keep the home protected. Hail, heavy snowfall, high-intensity winds, and heavy rains can wreak havoc on a roofing system.
Inspecting the roof visually following a storm is insufficient. It is in the homeowner's best interest to hire a professional roofing contractor for roof inspection and assessment after a bad storm. If you are on the fence or tempted to save a few bucks by doing the examination yourself, here are a few reasons highlighting the importance of considering professional roof inspections:
Assess the roof’s condition
Professional roofers perform a comprehensive inspection that involves inspecting the interiors, structure, materials, and workmanship. It helps them assess the stability and structural integrity of the roof after a storm. They know the problem areas and what exactly to look for. Expert roofers can thoroughly inspect the roof for leaks, foundation issues, and visible damages.
Identify hidden damages
A homeowner can identify visible damages like missing shingles, broken flashing, granules in the gutter, and cracks from the ground. However, a storm can cause several minor hidden issues, which may fail to catch attention and create significant and costly problems later. A roofing contractor climbs up the roof and looks for damages that are not visible to the untrained eyes. Some issues like small leaks and minor structural problems may seem trivial but can cause extensive damage when overlooked. An experienced roofer has trained eyes to identify weak spots and small and hidden issues.
Prevent further damage
After inspecting the roof, the roofer apprises the homeowner with the roof condition and suggests the required repairs. Timely identification of problems and quality repairs after a storm prevent issues from worsening. It helps save money in the long run and prevents the need for early roof replacement. Preventative inspections go a long way in saving time and money. Some homeowners find professional roof inspections expensive and unworthy. But the amount invested in hiring professionals or treating minor damages is nothing compared to repairing extensive damages or getting a new roof.
Avoid injuries
A severe storm may weaken the roof and leave it vulnerable. Climbing up on the roofing system without prior experience or skills can lead to serious injuries. Roofing contractors have the proper safety equipment, experience, and training that an average homeowner lacks. It allows them to inspect the roof safely and avoid any potential accidents.
Get help filing insurance claims
A roof inspection by professionals facilitates the insurance claim filing process. Roofers take pictures, document everything, and provide a detailed report mentioning their observations during the examination. Roofing contractors also give accurate written estimates for the amount of money needed to fix the roofing and other pieces of evidence insurance companies require for claim settlement.
Prolong the roof’s lifespan
A roofing system is a significant investment. Scheduling a professional inspection and performing repairs on time after a storm adds years of life to the roof. Regular examinations keep the roofing in the best shape and improve its efficiency and performance.
It is not wise to leave the roof unprotected after a storm. It is advisable to understand the roof’s condition and prepare it for similar events in the future. Call a local roofing contractor to inspect the roofing system after a big storm to save time, money, and a lot of stress down the line.
Professional roof inspections may come with a price but are worth it and prove cost-effective in the long run.
