If you’ve never hired a roof inspector in Florida, you’re in the right place! This guide covers everything you need to know about roofing inspections—from scheduling strategies to inspection methods and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing Inspections

When to Schedule a Roof Inspection?

It is best to get your roof inspected at least once a year. You’ll only need an additional inspection if any of the following are true:

• There are large water spots on the ceilings in your home.
• You need to prepare your roof before a tropical storm.
• You want to boost your home’s resale value.
• Your insurance company requires it for a claim.

What Are the Types of Roof Inspection?

A Physical Inspection

A physical roof inspection is a basic way to survey a roof. It only requires patience, a keen eye, and a sturdy ladder. As a homeowner, you can perform a physical inspection on your own, but you will get better results if you schedule a professional roof inspection.

A Drone Inspection

There are millions of drones in the United States. Many of these drones help commercial businesses like roofing companies. A roof inspection drone can:

• Provide a complex view of your roof
• Help a contractor inspect a roof on a tall commercial building
• Reach risky areas on a deteriorated roof
• Make the conditions safer for pedestrians on the ground

An Infrared Inspection

Infrared drones have thermal cameras. They help contractors survey sloped roofs. These drones are very cost-effective because they can find moisture on insulation faster than a roofer.

A Structural Inspection

A structural inspection requires skill, patience, and general roofing knowledge. This job doesn’t focus on visual flaws. Instead, it looks at the underlying components that make a roofing system structurally sound.

You’ll need a structural inspection if:

• Your collar ties are damaged.
• Your rafters are damaged.
• Your trusses are rotten or cracked.

During a routine structural inspection, a roofer will check the gutters, soffit, and facia. If a home has vents, a chimney, or skylights, they will also need to be examined during the inspection.

An Interior Inspection

An interior roof inspection helps you find leaks. In a two-story home, an interior inspection will take place on the top floor or in the attic. In a one-story home, a roof inspector will check the ceilings and walls in vulnerable spaces.

You will need to schedule roof maintenance or repairs after an interior inspection if:

• Ceilings in your home have water stains.
• You have rotten walls in your home.
• You have mold on your walls or ceilings.
• There are holes in the ceiling in your attic.
• There are rodents in your attic.

A Material Inspection

A material inspection focuses on the essential hardware. During this job, a roofer will check:

• The shingles
• Roof plates
• Any missing materials
• Any signs of rust or water damage on the roof
• Any signs of moss and rust on the roof

What Happens After the Inspection?

Following a roof inspection, you might need:

Roof Repairs for a Leak

The most common roofing problem is a leak. A roof will leak if it has broken or missing shingles. Some leaks could also develop around the chimney, pipes, vents, or flashing points on a roof.

Flashing Repairs

Flashing protects the creases on chimneys and skylights. Over time, flashing will crack; a roofer will have to replace it when this happens.

Shingle replacements

Roofers use sealants to secure shingles on a roof. Some shingles will fall on the ground if the bonds break or lose their strength. A shingle replacement is an easy job for a professional roofer.

Gutter Maintenance for Clogs

The granules on your shingles block UV rays. If some of your shingles are missing granules, they will begin to crack.

Gutter Maintenance for Mold and Mildew

Any water on a flat roof will attract mold. The solution to this problem is proper drainage.

Roof Repair for Hurricane Damage

Hurricanes are a double threat. They can cause wind and water damage to your roof.

How to Protect Your Roof After an Inspection in Florida?

Florida weather is unpredictable—many unforeseen circumstances can cause unexpected roof damage. The biggest threat is any powerful hurricane. A Category 1 or 2 storm can easily tear weak shingles off a roof.

You can strengthen your roof’s defenses before hurricane season by:

• Nailing down loose shingles.
• Reinforcing your flashing.
• Placing construction adhesive on all trusses and rafters.

What Are the Roof Inspection Mistakes You Must Avoid?

Roof inspections are absolutely necessary. If you have financial problems, you can postpone an annual inspection, but you should never dismiss it. Even brand-new roofs require annual inspections.

When inspecting the roof, always use a ladder for a good vantage point. It is impossible to conduct a thorough inspection on the ground with an untrained eye.

After a hurricane impacts your community, never delay a roof inspection. You should schedule it immediately once the conditions are ideal. If you delay the inspection and only discover the roof damage much later, your coverage could lapse when you finally file a claim down the road.

Never stray too far from the roof inspector during the inspection. Be present at all times, but don’t get in the way. Roof inspections matter, so stay informed and ask questions.

Matera Roofing is a reputable roofing company based in Dover, Florida. We provide commercial and residential roofing services throughout the state. If you need someone to inspect your roof or provide roof repairs, contact our team today.