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ROOF INSPECTION GUIDE:
Everything Hoboken Homeowners Need To Know About Roof Inspections

What Is A Roof Inspection?

Do you want peace of mind? Then you should invest in a roof inspection! A roof inspection is both a physical and visual inspection of your roof. A roof inspection allows your roofer and/or estimator to deeply examine the history and condition of your roof where traditional roof estimates cannot. When performing a roof inspection, many different methods of testing are often utilized in order to give your roofer an idea of the history of your roof, as well as what materials have been used, how many layers are currently on the roof and to see if there are any underlying issues such as rot or moisture under your roofing system. It is important to remember that general home inspections are not the same as roof inspections, as they cannot give an accurate assessment of the roof. Home inspections only give you a general idea of the overall condition of the roof itself, but can easily miss major problems. Here at Hoboken Roof Inspectionâ„ , A Division of Elite Roofing Contractor, INC., we combine both physical roof inspections and drone roof inspections, which in combination can give you a detailed and precise roof inspection report. Let's take a look at what exactly a roof inspection includes, specifically here at Hoboken Roof Inspection:

What Our Roof Inspections Include:

The Basics/What We're Looking For

When Hoboken Roof Inspectionâ„  performs a roof inspection, we'll always check the overall condition of your roof, but we'll also check specific areas that are prone to damage easily in areas of extreme wind, heavy rains, and constant sun exposure. Some things that Hoboken Roof Inspectionâ„  checks when performing a roof inspection are:

  • Gutters

  • Flashings

  • Skylights

  • Chimneys

  • Attic Space (If needed)​​

Regardless of their condition (good or bad), Hoboken Roof Inspectionâ„  will inform you whether or not these particular areas need to be treated more carefully, if repairs are needed, or if the whole roof needs to be replaced. If these areas are in good condition, we'll let you know what to do about maintaining it so that your roof doesn't get damaged. In short, before buying or selling a house, you're going to know what the roof is like.

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Photos & Drone Video/Photo Documentation

When you work with Hoboken Roof Inspectionâ„ , we give our customers detailed marked photos of their roofs and any damages that we find. Often, when a customer asks for a roof inspection, they'll usually need photo documentation of any found damages to provide to their insurance company, or sometimes they'll simply just want to see what our roofers have discovered.  Using a combination of physical inspections and our advanced drone technology, we're able to provide our customers with the highest quality photo and video documentation. Our drones help us to identify and diagnose roof damages which are difficult to see unless viewed in the bird's eye view.

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By using our advanced drone technology, we are able to identify various kinds of roofing conditions and roofing issues such as:

  • General deterioration and wear and tear of the roof itself, roofing materials, and other areas of the roof, such as your gutters.

  • Water marks or stains caused by moisture retention or leakage.

  • Missing or loose shingles, tiles, etc.

  • Curled or bent edges of metal panel roofing or fascia metal.

  • Openings or holes caused by pests or rodents, such as birds and squirrels.

  • Structural deterioration of the wooden roof soffits, fascia or plywood.

  • Holes, tears, or punctures due to fallen objects such as tree branches.

  • Defective gutter and downspout systems.

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Inspection Report

​As an extension of the provided marked-up photos, an inspection report is a detailed report listing all of the damages found as well as suggested work that is deemed necessary in order to correct the issues on the roof. On an inspection report, each area of your roof and the surrounding parts (gutters, pipes, skylights, etc.) will be broken down into their own sections, and a detailed description of each part will be provided. Even if the roof itself is in perfect condition and, for example, you have a leaking skylight, the roofer/estimator will provide details on both the damages and the parts that do not need to be repaired or changed. Again, inspection reports do not only inform the customer of the current condition of the roof but may be necessary in the case where your insurance company is involved. 

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Estimate

​In addition to everything that is included in a roofing inspection, an estimate is also included which provides our customers with a projected estimated cost for any necessary repairs and/or replacements. Unlike your average free estimate, this estimate will be more clear and more concise as prior tests have been performed such as the core sample and infrared testing during the overall inspection. After receiving your inspection report and your estimate, you can use this information to decide what are the next steps to take in fixing your roof, either with or without your insurance. 

Core Sample (If Necessary)

One test that is commonly performed here at Hoboken Roof Inspectionâ„  is a core sample. Core sampling is a constructive test that involves cutting and removing a small sample of the roof layers until the structural deck is reached. This is a necessary step in the usual routine of a roof inspection as it first makes the roofer/estimator aware of how many layers are currently on the roof and what materials have been used on those previous layers. Keep in mind that the maximum legal amount of layers on your roof can only be two, so this will determine what work needs to be done as well. In addition to helping your roofer/estimator determine what materials were used on your roof, core samples can also give your roofer insight into any underlying issues such as wood rot and/or trapped moisture which help to indicate the issues of your roof that your roofer/estimator may not have been aware of when just quoting out an estimate.

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Check Out This POV of Our Estimator, Kenny, Completing a Core Sample, in Jersey City!

Infrared Testing (If Necessary)

Here at Hoboken Roof Inspectionâ„ , we use special infrared water detectors that help our roofers/estimators determine the source of a leak that may not make itself visible. Using our infrared detectors, our roofers are able to examine the different temperature spots within the walls of your home;  the lighter parts indicate warmth, whereas the darker parts would indicate cold spots which represent the water penetration within your roof/walls. Infrared testing is necessary as it gives your roofer a deeper sense of the current problems with your roof, as well as indicates where exactly water is entering your home and where it is traveling to. 

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Why Roof Inspections Are Useful:

Whether you’re a prospective buyer or a long-time homeowner, receiving annual roof inspections are not only informative but can potentially save you a ton of money. If you are looking to buy a house, we recommend that you call a local professional that will be able to give you a detailed inspection report; this will enlighten you of any costly repairs or damages that need to be addressed before you are able to move in. On the other hand, if you already own your home and have had an initial inspection, we advise you to consider receiving yearly inspections and/or maintenance to extend the longevity of your roof. Our detailed and comprehensive roof inspection reports are beneficial for:

  • Sale of your property or home

  • Purchasing a new property or home

  • Future sales on properties

  • Appraisals on the properties

  • Insurance claims

  • Roof maintenance recommendations

  • Providing a safe and sturdy roof over your head

  • If you haven't had an previous inspection at your current home

  • After a big rain or snow storm

  • If you notice any damages to your roof

 

Here are a few additional reasons as to why you’ll want to consider annual roof inspections:

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Catch Small Problems

By receiving your initial and/or annual roof inspection, you are giving yourself the chance to catch small problems or damages that can eventually turn into costly repairs. This will allow you to take preventive measures against any further damage, as well as gives your contractor an idea of what other factors to keep an eye out for. 

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Detects Leaks Faster

​Most times, you are able to see exactly where a leak may be beginning to form just by examining the exterior of your roof. Cracked rubber, broken shingles, and/or tears in your roof are massive indicators that not only are their damage but unkempt damage that can lead to unexpected leaks. Annual roof inspections allow contractors to detect leaks before they start infiltrating the interior of your home, and give you ample time to assess the situation. 

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Ensure Proper Drainage

Initial and annual roof inspections don’t focus only on your roof, but on your gutters too! During the inspection, your inspector will also check your gutters to ensure they are properly functioning; this includes making sure they are properly draining by looking for any obstructions and/or openings in your gutters that would prevent proper water drainage. Although minor, gutter blockages can cause major issues when rainy weather approaches. 

 

Expose Potential Hazard

Many homeowners are not aware that debris on their roofs can be potential fire hazards, especially when the homeowner does not regularly check the condition of their roofs. You can only see so much from the ground, which is why having a professional annual inspection is always recommended. Loose shingles can easily become a hazard during severe weather. Exposed wires and open HVAC systems are also potential fire hazards. 

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Protect Your Warranty

You’ll come to find that many companies actually require a yearly inspection and/or maintenance in order to keep your warranty. Companies do this to ensure that your roof is in its best condition and aims to maintain the work performed; this will help avoid future problems and/or repairs. 

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How To Know When to Schedule an Inspection

If you do not already have a roofing company performing annual inspections and/or maintenance, here are some signs to look out for which indicate that it is time for an inspection:​

  • You can visually spot discoloration and/or wear on the shingles.

  • You noticed leaks within the interior of your home.

  • You’re interested in improving your home's insulation.

  • A bad storm has passed through your area.

  • It’s been a year since your last inspection.

How To Find The Best Roof Inspection Near Me:

When searching for a roof inspection near me or Hoboken roof inspections near me, you may find various different roofing companies promising to have the best inspections, but many often fall short. When searching for a roofing contractor to perform a roof inspection on your roof, that can also give you a detailed inspection report, be sure to look out for these key points:​​

  • Reviews: Just as you would for any company you're hiring, we recommend taking a look at a companies reviews on not only Google, but Yelp, Facebook, the BBB, or any other platform that customers can leave reviews on. Reviews can give you insight to how a company works, how their customer service is, and most importantly, the overall quality of the work or service performed.

  • Location: Where your contractor is based out of is just as important as reviews, because you'll want a contractor that knows the area well. When a contractor is local, they are able to pin-point specific problems that are common on other roofs in the area. Having a local roofer is also important because if you have a question, want to meet in person regarding your job, or simply just would like to chat about your inspection/inspection report, you'll always know where to find them!

  • Specializations: When looking for the right contractor to conduct an inspection on your roof and to write you up an inspection report, it is important to note if they can do the work that they're recommending gets done. Many times, especially here in Hoboken, NJ, you'll find companies who promote that they specialize in roof inspections and roof inspection reports, yet they don't actually do any type of roofing work! To keep things simple and streamlined, we recommend getting an inspection from a company that can provide you with both a report and the physical work that they're recommending gets done. 

What To Do If You Need A Roof Inspection:

If you're in search of Hoboken Roof Inspection, Roof Inspection Hoboken, Roof Inspections near me, etc., look no further, Hoboken Roof Inspectionâ„ , A Division of Elite Roofing Contractor, INC.,  is your one-stop-shop for all of your roofing and exterior needs! Whether you're in the market of buying a new home or need a roof inspection for an insurance claim, Hoboken Roof Inspectionâ„  can provide you with the most clear and comprehensive roof inspection report, across the board. 

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If you’re interested in receiving a roof inspection, be sure to contact us here at Hoboken Roof Inspection™! Contact us today at (201)436-1011, or email us at eliteroofinginc@hotmail.com for more information! If you’d like, you can also fill out the contact form on our website by clicking here.


If you’d like to find out Why Annual Roof Inspections Are Important, be sure to check out our blog on our Elite Roofing website, using this link!

https://www.eliteroofingincnj.com/post/why-annual-roof-inspections-are-important

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If you'd like to learn the difference between a Roof Inspection and an estimate, be sure to check out our How Does A Roof Inspection Differ From A Roof Estimate? blog on our Elite Roofing website, using the link below! 

https://www.eliteroofingincnj.com/post/how-does-a-roof-inspection-differ-from-a-roof-estimate

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