What We Look For Up Close
Our inspections involve a close look at every part of your roof. We check the condition of the shingles or tiles, looking for lifting, cracking, or missing pieces, especially around edges and penetrations like vents or chimneys. We also examine the flashing, the metal pieces that protect joints and vulnerable areas, ensuring they are properly sealed and not corroded. The underlayment, the waterproof barrier beneath your primary roofing material, is crucial, as is the condition of the roof decking, the solid layer beneath it all. Identifying soft spots or rot in the decking is vital, as it often indicates a more serious issue that needs addressing before new roofing is installed. We note the condition of your gutters and downspouts too, as clogged gutters can cause water to back up under shingles and onto the fascia and soffit.
Sarasota's Sun and Salt Air
Living in Sarasota means our roofs face unique challenges. The intense Florida sun can degrade roofing materials over time, causing them to become brittle and more susceptible to damage. The salt air from the coast can also accelerate corrosion on metal components like flashing and fasteners. This is why we pay extra attention to materials that may show signs of UV damage or salt exposure. Tile roofs, common here, need checking for cracks caused by expansion and contraction with heat, and for the potential for algae growth that can affect their appearance and even their integrity if left unaddressed. The frequent, intense rain also means that proper drainage and water management are always top priorities during our inspections.
Knowing When to Call Us
The most obvious sign you need a roof inspection is a leak – a stain on your ceiling, water dripping after a storm, or even just dampness in your attic. However, roofs often show signs of aging before they actually leak. If your roof is older, or if you've recently had a severe storm pass through, it's wise to have us take a look. Even if you haven't noticed any immediate problems, a home you've just purchased might benefit from an inspection to understand its current condition. We'll start by walking the perimeter of your home, looking for obvious issues like missing shingles. Then, we'll safely access the roof to conduct a thorough examination of all components, documenting our findings with photos to show you exactly what we see and explain the implications.
Questions about roof inspections
What happens during a typical roof inspection in Sarasota?
We begin with a visual check from the ground, looking for obvious damage like missing shingles or debris. Then, we safely get on the roof to inspect the condition of your shingles or tiles, flashing around vents and chimneys, and the overall integrity of the roof system. We also check your gutters and downspouts for proper drainage. Inside, we'll look in the attic for signs of moisture or leaks. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive assessment of your roof's health.
My roof is old, should I be worried about replacement?
An older roof, especially one that has been through many Florida storms, might be nearing the end of its lifespan. We'll inspect for signs of wear such as curling or missing shingles, especially on older asphalt shingle roofs. We also check for areas where water might be pooling or where the underlying decking has softened. Rather than assuming replacement is necessary, we assess the specific condition and identify what repairs might be needed now and what might indicate a need for future replacement.
After a storm, what should I look for on my roof?
From the ground, look for any shingles or tiles that are missing, lifted, or cracked. Check your yard for any roofing debris. If you have a tarp on your roof, that's a clear sign that damage has occurred and needs attention. Don't try to climb onto the roof yourself, especially after a storm. We can come out and safely assess any potential storm-related damage, looking closely at the shingles, flashing, and any other components that might have been affected by high winds or heavy rain.