It is not an easy task to find a good roofing contractor. For an honest and professional roof inspection, select several local companies with good reviews and ratings. Then check the company’s website to make sure that the constructors work with a roofing system that you have and contact them by phone or online and ask some essential questions.
Essential questions for your roofing contractor
- How is a roof inspection carried out?
A roofing inspector will arrange a convenient time and come to your property and inspect your roof using specialist equipment and a checklist.
- What kind of report does the homeowner receive from the roofing inspector?
After the survey, the roofing inspector issues a specialist homeowners report. This report contains photographs of the roofing structures and inspections. The specialist report should be ready within one or two days from the inspection’s date. If your roof has severe damage that requires emergency repair, the inspector will set the earliest possible date for repair.
- How will the roofing contractor inspect the roof?
A licensed roofing inspector will go up to the roof to conduct a thorough inspection of the roof structures, gutters, shingles, the condition of the attic, and fascia in detail. It is crucial to examine all the roof elements to assess the scope and cost of work. Suppose you come across a roofing expert that gives you an immediate estimate without a detailed roof assessment of the cost of the work. In that case, we recommend refusing the services of this specialist.
- How long does the roof inspection take?
Inspection time may vary. In average, a roof inspection can take from twenty minutes to one hour. The time mainly depends on the size and the complexity of the roof structure. Inspecting a roof with a complex roof structure may be complicated and take longer.
- What qualifications are required for a roofing expert?
To carry out roofing work, contractors must have roofing qualifications. City law does not provide specific qualification requirements for a roof inspector. However, building companies that provide quality work hire certified professionals. M&Y Remodeling Pittsburgh Roofing inspectors are accredited by the Nationals Claims Institute. To get this qualification, all roofing inspectors undergo theoretical and practical training courses and have to pass an exam. NCI is one of the most trusted roof inspection training organizations and provides all the necessary knowledge and skills.
Always get quotes from more than one roofing contractor, but do not necessarily choose the cheapest. A roofing contractor should provide detailed and clear answers to all your questions. Obtain written quotations and make your choice based on the quality of the advice and information given.
When do you need a roof inspection?
You should book a roof inspection at your property in following sutiations:
- Your last roof inspection was over 10 years ago;
- You have ongoing issues such as leaks, breakages, clogged gutters, puddles near the house;
- Loose and broken-off shingles are found at the property; they may indicate that the roof was damaged by storm and wind;
- Wet patches on ceilings that may be a sign of water in the attic;
- Signs of mechanical damage, bent or slipped tiles;
- Hurricane or hailstorm in your area. Hail damage may not be noticeable at first glance. However, a licensed roof expert will inspect the roof and identify any existing problems;
- Sudden discoloring or blackening of the shingles. This phenomenon can often appear on rooftops in Pittsburgh and is related to algae. A licensed roof inspector will search for pockets of fungus, mold, or algae in your attic. To prevent these unplwasant growths on your roof in the future, we recommend GAF HDZ shingles with a 25-year guarantee with Stain Guard technology.
Regular roof inspections are crucial for maintaining a healthy roof.
It helps to save your money as the roof problems are discovered in the early stages and easily fixed at the minimum cost. The cost of a roof inspection is relatively low. It is a small investment that will help your home to look the best in years to come.