Free Webinar: How to Perform Roof Inspections

Quick recap

The final webinar in a 12-part series on roof inspections was presented by Matt Brodeur, a Certified Master Inspector, who covered safety guidelines, inspection practices, and common issues. The presentation included detailed discussions on roof inspection techniques, safety protocols, and best practices for evaluating various roofing materials and components. The session concluded with information on roof framing systems and inspection methods, along with guidance on proper documentation and continuing education opportunities for attendees.

Summary

Roof Inspection Webinar Series Final

The final webinar in a 12-part series focused on roof inspections, presented by Matt Brodeur, a Certified Master Inspector and roof consultant with 15 years of experience. Matt explained the InterNACHI® Home Inspection Standards of Practice, noting that while inspectors are not required to walk on roofs, it is recommended for safety and thoroughness. He emphasized the importance of using best judgment and proper documentation when disclaiming certain inspection tasks. The webinar also covered the dangers of roof inspections and encouraged attendees to take advantage of free educational resources offered by InterNACHI® to enhance their knowledge and skills in roof inspections.

Roof Inspection Safety Best Practices

Matt discussed roof inspection safety and best practices, emphasizing that most roofs are inspectable with proper precautions. He recommended using specialized footwear like Cougar Paws for roof walking and following the 4-to-1 rule for ladder safety. Matt advised against walking on certain types of roofs like solid tile or wooden shingle roofs and emphasized the importance of inspecting from ground level whenever possible. He also covered various ladder types and safety guidelines, including the three-point control method for climbing.

Roof Inspection Guidelines and Tips

The meeting focused on roof inspection tips and guidelines. Matt explained that inspectors are not required to warranty the roof or inspect ancillary components like antennas and solar panels. He emphasized that inspectors should only report on observable roof covering materials, not the entire roof system or assembly. Matt discussed the differences between roof slope and pitch, explaining that slope is measured in inches per foot while pitch is expressed as a fraction. He also covered various roof styles, including gable, hip, and flat roofs, as well as special features like chlorestery windows and cupolas. Matt advised inspectors to pay attention to roof-to-wall transitions and flashing requirements, particularly for complex roof shapes.

Roofing Inspection and Installation Practices

The meeting focused on roofing inspection and installation practices. Matt explained the challenges of inspecting conical roofs and dormers, emphasizing the importance of specialized flashing and proper drainage systems. He discussed the use of ladder standoffs and the risks of downspout discharge onto lower roofing systems. The group also addressed architectural shingle wind ratings, the installation of concrete tiles over asphalt shingles, and the importance of kick-out flashing height. 

Roof Inspection and Maintenance Overview

The discussion focused on roof inspection and maintenance, covering factors affecting roof lifespan such as weather conditions, material quality, and installation defects. Matt explained that home inspectors are not required to determine the age of construction or installation of roof systems, but can speak to observed damage and potential issues. He highlighted the importance of proper ventilation, roof drainage systems, and installation practices, noting that the quality of the installer often outweighs the quality of the roofing material. The presentation also covered common roof defects, such as tree rub damage, environmental conditions affecting roof orientation, and the significance of proper gutter slope and installation.

Gutter Types and Maintenance Guide

Matt discussed various types of gutters and their common problems, emphasizing the importance of proper installation and maintenance. He explained the different materials used in gutters, including steel, aluminum, copper, and vinyl, and highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of each. Matt also covered inspection techniques for gutters, such as checking for proper slope, downspout presence, and signs of leaks or damage. He provided guidelines for assessing the adequacy of gutter systems based on roof size and suggested upgrading downspouts as a cost-effective solution for improving drainage.

Roof and Gutter Inspection Guide

Matt discussed various aspects of roof and gutter inspection, including identifying impact damage, proper downspout placement, and the effectiveness of gutter guards. He emphasized the importance of ensuring downspouts discharge water at least 5 feet away from the foundation and highlighted common issues with underground and internal drainage systems. Matt also addressed ventilation concerns, noting that mixed ventilation methods are not always problematic unless actively conflicting, and he advised against calling out inadequate ventilation without performing specific calculations. He concluded by discussing the challenges of moss growth on roofs and the distinction between aluminum and steel gutters, recommending magnet tests for material identification.

Hail Damage Assessment Guidelines

AJ asked Matt about the distinction between cosmetic and functional hail damage, to which Matt explained that hail damage is defined as any demonstrable detrimental effect on materials, but insurance companies use internal guidelines that vary widely. Matt recommended using a hail software and clearly explaining inspection criteria, while noting that definitions of hail damage can differ based on who is making the determination. Matt also discussed common roof framing issues, including ridge sag, rafter problems, and sheathing issues, emphasizing the importance of identifying structural anomalies and recommending further evaluation by qualified professionals when necessary.

Roof Framing Systems Overview

The meeting focused on roof framing systems, with Matt explaining the differences between conventional roof framing and roof trusses. He discussed common rafters, purlins, and hip roofs, as well as the importance of proper installation and inspection of these components. Matt emphasized the need for home inspectors to understand the load path of roof structures and the significance of structural members like collar ties and rafter ties. He also covered the proper inspection of trusses, including the importance of checking for modifications or alterations without proper engineering approval.

Roofing Inspection Overview

The meeting covered a comprehensive overview of roofing inspection, focusing on various roofing materials, inspection methods, and common issues. Matt explained the process of inspecting asphalt shingles, including the use of the 10x10-foot test square for quantifying hail damage. He also discussed the components and installation of asphalt shingles, as well as factors affecting their lifespan. The session included information on other roofing materials such as slate, clay, wood, and metal, along with inspection tips for each.