While many people think of inspections for various home components as only being necessary after said components have been in place for some time, this is not always the case. A great example here is a new roof – there are several reasons why an inspection of a new roof is vital after it’s installed, and several key parts of this process that will be covered.
At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to offer roof replacements and new roof options for clients around Salt Lake City, West Valley City, West Jordan and nearby areas. Here’s a deep dive into why inspections are so important following new roof installation, plus some of the key areas that our professionals will cover during these inspections (and even a few where you can play a long-term role).
Why Inspections Matter for New Roofs
Some clients have an understandable question when they hear about new roof inspections: If all the materials are new and the shingles look great, why is this necessary? It’s a valid question – and one with several answers.
The first is that even with impeccable installation, small details can be missed or forgotten. As an example: Nails may have been left in place while flashing was being installed, leading to minor leaks as time passes. These are things that can often be missed with the naked eye, but they can be picked up during an inspection and addressed they become real problems.
Another key part of inspections following new roof is to ensure that all contractors have followed proper protocol – and not just in terms of placement and installation, but also when it comes to waste disposal and cleanup. A thorough inspection can ensure that no one’s property has been damaged, and that the entire job was done with care and precision.
Warranty Considerations
One additional reason for new roof inspections is so notable that we gave it its own section: Warranties. Many roofing manufacturers will require proof of inspections after installation in order for the product to be eligible for warranty coverage. In some cases, an inspection must be completed within a certain time frame – usually within 90 days of the new roof being installed.
This is not just about following protocol and ensuring that all necessary paperwork is complete; it’s also about protecting yourself. If any materials are defective, you’ll have the ability to detect this early on and take necessary action so that you don’t end up with a major problem down the line.
Our next few sections will go over some of the key areas that are covered during these inspections.
Possible Installation Issues
One of the first things that inspectors look for is any possible installation issues. These can include improperly sealed shingles, poor flashing installation, and other areas where the job wasn’t completed to a high enough standard.
Other issues may also be present – such as debris coming from materials or spaces between certain components. Cracks or air bubbles in caulk can also be a sign of potential issues.
Inspectors should also look for any possible leakage, particularly around chimneys and other high points on the roof. If anything is found, it should be noted and addressed shortly afterwards.
Ventilation and Insulation Checks
The ventilation system of your new roof is extremely important – not just in terms of its lifespan, but also when it comes to energy efficiency. Poor ventilation can lead to a number of complications, including moisture buildup and mildew growth.
Inspectors should also check any insulation that was used during the installation process. This is especially true for attics, where poor insulation (or an inadequate amount) can lead to moisture issues or higher energy bills.
Interior Areas
There are also several interior areas that should be inspected following a new roof installation. These include the attic, where possible air leaks or moisture buildup should be noted and addressed (if necessary). Inspectors should also look for any water stains on ceiling and walls – these can indicate previous leakage issues.
Finally, support structures such as rafters and trusses should also be inspected for signs of age or damage.
Your Role in the Inspection Process
While the inspector will be doing a thorough job of looking for any issues that may arise, there is one area where clients can play a key role: Documentation. Since this is an inspection following new roof installation, it’s important to keep all documentation related to the job. This includes invoices, warranties, and any other paperwork that may be relevant.
At the end of the day, inspections for new roofs are vital for a number of reasons. The inspector’s job is to thoroughly check all areas related to installation and make sure everything was done properly – but clients also have an important role to play in the form of documentation. This can help protect everyone involved, and provide a higher level of peace of mind for years to come.
At The Roof Doctor, our experienced inspectors are here to make sure that your new roof is properly inspected and any potential issues are detected early on. Give us a call today to find out more about our roofing services around SLC, West Valley City and West Jordan.