Roof Inspections: How Often & What to Expect

Have you ever wondered if your roof is hiding a secret problem? Maybe the last storm left you uneasy. Or perhaps you just want peace of mind, knowing your home is protected from top to bottom. At Vesley Roofing, we've seen what can happen when small roof issues are left unchecked—cracked tiles, loose flashing, even unexpected leaks on a calm day.

Your roof works hard, 24/7. It shields you from the elements, keeps your home dry, and helps with energy bills. But even the best roofs need a regular checkup. Let’s break down how often you should inspect, what to expect, and how a pro inspection keeps you ahead of costly surprises.

Why Regular Roof Inspections Matter 🏠

Think of your roof like the brakes on your car—out of sight, out of mind, until something goes wrong. Regular roof inspections are an essential part of Preventative Maintenance near you. They help spot problems before they become emergencies—saving you money, stress, and sometimes the contents of your living room.

Some homeowners only think about their roof after a big storm or when a leak appears. But most roof damage starts small. Wind lifts a shingle. A gutter overflows. Water sneaks in. Months or years later, you’re facing water stains, mold, or structural repair.

Inspections help you:

• Catch leaks before they damage insulation or drywall
• Extend your roof’s life, whether it’s shingles, tile, or metal
• Maintain your manufacturer’s warranty and meet local code requirements (read more at the International Code Council)
• Stay ahead of storm damage and insurance headaches

How Often Should You Inspect Your Roof?

It’s a bit like going to the dentist—regular checkups keep the pain away.

General rule:

• Once a year for most homes
• Twice a year if your roof is aging (15+ years), or you have lots of trees/debris
• After any major storm or hail event

Special cases:

• New roofs: Inspect at the 1-year mark, then annually. Builders sometimes miss small flashing or sealant details.
• Older roofs: Two or more times a year. Aging materials are more likely to crack, curl, or leak.
• After storms: Any time you’ve had high winds, hail, or flying debris, schedule an extra check. Even if everything looks fine from the ground.

What Happens During an Inspection?

A real roof inspection is far more than a quick glance with binoculars. At Vesley Roofing, our process is thorough, safe, and designed for your peace of mind.

What you can expect:

1. Visual Survey
   We examine the roof from the ground, then move to ladders or walk the roof (when safe). We check for missing shingles, cracked tiles, rusted flashing, and signs of movement.
2. Photo Documentation
   Our team uses digital cameras and, for complex roofs, drones to capture close-up images of trouble spots. No guesswork—just clear evidence.
3. Moisture Detection
   Using moisture meters, we scan for hidden damp areas under shingles or in the attic. This finds leaks before they become visible stains.
4. Component Check
   We inspect chimneys, skylights, gutters, downspouts, vents, and insulation. Each part plays a role in keeping water out and air flowing.
5. Safety Review
   Loose shingles, nails, or structural sagging are flagged for immediate attention.
6. Written Report
   You get a clear summary—what’s fine, what needs maintenance, and what should be fixed soon.

What Inspectors Look For

Every home is unique. But there are universal signs our team checks during every visit.

Common Issues We Find

• Cracked or missing shingles/tiles
• Curled shingle edges (a sign of aging)
• Damaged or lifted flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents
• Rust or corrosion on metal roofs and fasteners
• Clogged or sagging gutters
• Moss or algae growth, especially on shaded roofs
• Soft spots on decking (walkable surface)
• Blocked or missing attic ventilation
• Water stains inside attic or on ceilings
• Loose or deteriorated sealants
• Exposed nail heads

For new roofs: We look for missed nails, improper overlaps, and manufacturer installation errors.

For older roofs: We check for signs of rot, brittle materials, and past repairs that may need attention.

After storms: We scan for impact marks, torn materials, and hidden leaks—sometimes only visible with moisture meters or thermal imaging.

[Insert diagram/photo suggestion: Close-up of typical roof damage—missing shingle, lifted flashing, rusty nail]

Vesley Roofing’s Inspection Process

We know trust is earned, not claimed. That’s why our inspectors are OSHA-trained and follow National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) guidelines. Our process includes:

• Electronic moisture detection tools (so we don’t just guess)
• Drone surveys for hard-to-reach areas
• Safe ladder practices (using stabilizers and harnesses)
• Detailed photo and written reports for your records or insurance claims

Our team is fully licensed and insured. We stay current with state and local building codes, and all recommendations are based on real findings—not just opinions.

Differences for New, Aging, or Storm-Exposed Roofs

Every roof tells a different story, and our approach changes depending on its age and history.

New Roofs:
We check for installation defects and ensure flashing, gutters, and sealants are perfectly in place. Even a brand-new roof can have small gaps or loose nails.

Aging Roofs:
Here, we’re on the lookout for brittle materials, loose fasteners, and signs of water intrusion. Older roofs often need more frequent maintenance—think of it like an older car needing more oil changes.

Storm-Damaged Roofs:
Wind, hail, and flying debris can cause damage that’s invisible from the ground. Our inspectors use close-up photos and moisture meters to catch problems early, so you can address them before your next rainstorm.

Core Inspection Steps at a Glance

• Walk perimeter, check for obvious damage
• Inspect shingles/tiles for cracks, curling, or missing pieces
• Examine flashing (chimney, skylight, valleys) for rust, gaps, or lifting
• Assess gutters and downspouts for blockages or damage
• Look for moss, algae, or debris
• Enter attic (if accessible) to check for water stains, daylight leaks, or insulation issues
• Use moisture meters on suspicious areas
• Take photos of all findings for your report

Common Findings (and What They Mean)

• Loose or missing shingles: Usually wind or age
• Granule loss on shingles: Normal with age, but too much means your roof is thinning out
• Cracked tiles: Hail or impact, may lead to leaks
• Deteriorated flashing: Big risk for leaks, especially around chimneys or skylights
• Clogged gutters: Can cause water to back up and rot decking or fascia
• Attic mold or moisture: Sign of poor ventilation, blocked soffits, or hidden leaks

Quick Safety Checklist

Before you grab a ladder, remember—roof inspections can be risky. Stay safe!

• Use a stable, well-placed ladder (extend at least 3 feet above the roof edge)
• Never walk on a wet, icy, or steep roof
• Wear shoes with good grip
• Watch for overhead wires and loose shingles
• If you see obvious damage or feel unsure, call Vesley Roofing instead

DIY vs. Call a Pro

It’s tempting to check things yourself. And for a simple visual check from the ground, that’s fine. But the real problems are often hiding where you can’t see or safely reach.

DIY is okay for:

• Looking for missing or curled shingles from the ground
• Checking gutters and downspouts for debris
• Spotting water stains in your attic or ceilings

Call a pro if:

• You see anything that looks wrong but can’t identify the cause
• Your roof is steep, tall, or slippery
• After any storm with high winds or hail
• You’re selling or buying a home (professional inspection reports are often required)

Remember, falls are a leading cause of home injuries (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission).

What Pros Do On Arrival

When Vesley Roofing arrives:

• We introduce ourselves and review your concerns
• Set up safety gear and ladders
• Start with a perimeter walk, then move to the roof (weather permitting)
• Document everything with photos and notes
• Share findings with you—clear and simple, no jargon

We treat your home with respect, keeping everything clean and tidy.

Prevention & Maintenance

Inspections are just the first step. Keeping your roof healthy is a year-round job:

• Clean gutters and downspouts at least twice a year
• Trim back tree branches to prevent debris buildup
• Check attic ventilation and insulation—this helps prevent ice dams and mold
• Schedule Preventative Maintenance near you every year, especially if your roof is more than 10 years old

A little care goes a long way. Regular maintenance extends your roof’s life and can lower your insurance premiums.

Costs & Time Factors

Inspections are an investment in your home’s health. Most residential inspections take 1–2 hours, depending on the roof size, pitch, and accessibility. More complex roofs, or those with multiple levels and features like skylights, may take longer.

Costs can vary based on:

• Roof size and complexity
• Accessibility (steepness, height)
• Whether a drone or moisture meter is needed
• Any follow-up repairs or emergency roofing services required

Remember, a small inspection fee is nothing compared to the cost of major water damage or structural repair.

When It’s an Emergency

Not all roof issues can wait. Call for emergency roofing help if you notice:

• Active leaks or water dripping indoors
• Signs of large missing patches after a storm
• Sagging ceilings or roof decks
• Exposed underlayment or daylight through your attic

Quick action limits the damage. Vesley Roofing is available for urgent calls and storm damage restoration, day or night.

FAQ

How do I know if my roof needs an inspection?
If it’s been over a year, after a big storm, or if you notice new stains, call for an inspection. If you’re selling or buying your home, a pro inspection is a smart move.

Can I walk on my own roof?
We do not recommend it. Even experienced inspectors use safety equipment. Many roofs are slippery, fragile, or unsafe to walk.

What’s included in a Vesley Roofing inspection?
A full visual assessment, photo documentation, moisture checks, and a written report. We check every major component—shingles, flashing, gutters, skylights, and more.

Will insurance cover repairs if you find damage?
If the damage is storm-related or sudden, insurance may help. We provide clear reports you can submit to your provider.

Local & Seasonal Considerations 🌦️

Your climate plays a big role in how often you should inspect. In areas with heavy rain, snow, or wind, schedule checks before and after the extreme seasons. Spring and fall are the best times for most homes—after winter’s freeze and before summer’s storms.

In wildfire-prone regions, keep your roof and gutters clear of leaves and debris. For homes near the ocean, salt air can speed up corrosion—regular inspections catch rust before it spreads.

Refer to the National Roofing Contractors Association and your local building codes for more info on seasonal recommendations.

Your roof keeps your family safe, dry, and comfortable. Don’t leave its health to chance. For thorough inspections, Preventative Maintenance near you, and all your emergency roofing needs, Vesley Roofing is ready to help.

Call Vesley Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  844-460-8487 .