Nothing lasts forever, and that includes your roof. The everyday intense sunshine in Phoenix means more stress on the roof. In many cases, the roof wasn’t designed to handle this much stress. So, most homes need a professional roofing contractor in AZ to inspect at least once a year or when you plan to sell your home. If a home inspector finds a roof problem, the buyer will likely back out of the deal.
A roof inspector doesn’t simply climb on top of your house and say, “Yeah, that’s a roof all right.” Roofing contractors look for telltale signs of damage that non-professionals often miss and estimate the roof’s remaining usable life. More on that below.
At Four Peaks Roofing, we have years of experience in the Phoenix area. We use proven methods to inspect your roof quickly and thoroughly. Furthermore, we know how the harsh environment in the Valley of the Sun affects roofs. Finally, if your roof will soon ride off into the sunset, we offer many replacement or repair options. At least one of these options is suitable for you.
What Does a Roofing Contractor in AZ Do?
A professional roof inspection is much more than a do-it-yourself visual inspection. Instead, the inspector evaluates the roof’s functionality and overall condition, usually by paying close attention to:
- Number of Layers: In the past, many roofing companies used cheap materials and compensated by using multiple layers. A roof with more than two layers may violate the fire code and is most likely a substandard roof.
- Drip Edge: Thorough roofing companies place these metal slats along the roof’s edge to drain water away from the fascia (the supporting board behind the gutter). Companies who take shortcuts add an extra layer to the roof and hope for the best.
- Decking: The wooden foundation must be solid and not spongy. Determining the roof’s condition is impossible without tearing up the shingles. However, a shaky foundation is nearly a sure sign that something is amiss.
- Roof Flashing: Contractors install this metal component in areas that butt up against something, such as a wall, chimney, or open valleys, to prevent leaks. Flashing is one of the most essential things a roofer checks during a roof inspection.
- Vent Pipes: Warm air rises. Properly ventilated roofs allow heat that collects in the attic to keep rising. Clogged, faulty, or non-working vent pipes trap the hot air inside your house, driving up summertime cooling costs.
Usually, roof inspectors also examine downspouts and gutters closely, even though they aren’t part of the roof. Cracks, open seams, and blockages hinder drainage.
Roof Inspections and Cost Savings
Like preventative healthcare, preventative roof inspections usually save money in the long run. Roof inspections always give homeowners peace of mind, a priceless commodity.
Insurance Coverage
Any way you slice it, roof replacement is costly. Insurance often covers most of these costs unless neglect or negligence caused the damage.
We see this scenario many times: a roof inspector finds a problem, the homeowner submits a claim, and the insurance company denies coverage, claiming that the homeowner should have gotten ahead of the problem and addressed it earlier. In Phoenix, gradual wear and tear, often along with a poor installation job, usually damages more roofs than sudden, violent storms.
Ordering regular inspections and, more importantly, maintaining proper documentation demonstrates your commitment to preserving your property, which streamlines the insurance claim process. Such efforts also show your insurer that you’ve taken preventative measures and that the damage was unforeseeable and beyond your control.
Property Value
The roof is usually the most expensive component of your largest financial asset. A well-maintained roof serves a functional purpose and enhances your home’s aesthetic appeal. It also sends a strong signal to potential buyers about the overall care and attention invested in the property.
Put yourself in the buyer’s shoes. A well-maintained and recently inspected roof indicates that the homeowner has cared for the property. A poorly maintained, uninspected roof is a red flag.
Energy Efficiency
We mentioned trapped hot air above. A roof problem could also have the opposite effect. Damaged or deteriorating roofs can lead to air leaks.
Conversely, a robust, well-insulated roof provides a sturdy barrier against outdoor weather conditions. It aids in maintaining a stable indoor climate, reducing the strain on your HVAC system and, consequently, your energy usage.
Nip It in the Bud With A Roofing Contractor in AZ
Minor roof problems seem, well, minor. As a result, many homeowners don’t see the need for regular roof inspections, even if their roofs are nearing the end of their lifespan.
For example, a small, untreated leak can infiltrate the roof’s underlayment and decking. This scenario often leads to structural damage that compromises the stability of the entire roof. Repair is no longer an option; a complete roof replacement becomes the only way forward.
As a final note, we shouldn’t discount the importance of regular DIY visual inspections. If you feel a lump in your breast, you shouldn’t wait until next month to see a doctor. Your roof is the same way.
Look for stains, even tiny stains, on ceilings. Another sign to watch for is the presence of granules in gutters. They could signal advanced wear and tear. Responding swiftly to these red flags often distinguishes between a minor repair and a complete overhaul.
Contact us to schedule your professional roof inspection.
