Roofing repairs and maintenance are often an important part of home ownership. Your attic is an important part of your home that needs to be inspected for any potential issues. Professional roofers will do an attic inspection to check for water damage, mold, or other issues that could compromise the structure of your home. How often should you schedule attic inspections and why?

How Often Should You Schedule An Attic Inspection

Before you rush to schedule an attic inspection, understand how often it should be done. Most roofers recommend having an attic inspection at least once a year. This allows them to check for any potential problems that could cause damage to your home or compromise the structural integrity of your roof. You also need to keep an eye out for any potential signs of water damage, mold, or other issues that could be caused by a roofing issue. If you notice something unusual on the ceiling, walls, or floor of your attic, it's important to get an inspection done as soon as possible.

Reasons for Attic Inspections

Here are five reasons why you should have a professional roofer do regular attic inspections:

1. Retrofit or Upgrade Insulation

Insulating your attic is one of the best ways to keep your home comfortable, and noise-proof, as well as reduce energy costs. In addition, good insulation keeps your home warm during winter and cool during summer. During an inspection, a roofer can assess the type and quality of insulation in your attic and recommend upgrades or retrofits if needed. Your insulation can last more than 80 years but you'll need to retrofit it after 10 years of service. If you notice any drafts or increased energy costs, a roofer can help you evaluate the attic and check for insulation damage.

2. To Manage Rodent and Pest Infestation

Rodents and pests take advantage of your home's weak spots. If your attic is faulty, you'll hear them scurrying around. They'll also come into your home in search of food and shelter. A roofer will inspect your attic for signs of pest infestation, such as droppings, nests, and damaged insulation. The roofer can also check for holes in the foundation or exterior walls that allow them to enter your home. Some of the signs to look out for include:

  • Scampering on the walls and ceiling
  • Strange animal odor in your home
  • Grease, rub, and gnaw marks along the walls
  • Chewed insulation and wiring
  • Your dog or cat responding to unseen movement

3. Installing a Radiant Barrier

Unlike most of the country, Florida is blessed to experience all-year-round sunshine. A radiant barrier is a reflective insulation that helps keep the sun’s heat from entering your home through the attic. This can reduce your energy bills and help with cooling costs, especially in the summer months. The roofer will install the barrier on any type of roof, including shingles, tiles, steel, stone-coated steel, and concrete tile. The installation process involves laying the barrier directly on top of your existing insulation and either stapling it down or using a special adhesive to secure it in place.

4. Eliminating Moisture Problems

Attic inspections are also important for identifying moisture problems that can cause mold growth or decay. The roofer will look for signs of discoloration, water spots on ceilings or walls, musty odors, and other signs of dampness. If these are present, the roofer will recommend installing a vent system to help eliminate excess moisture from the attic space. This can be done by either adding more vents or replacing existing ones with larger sizes.

5. Identifying Potential Hazards

Attic inspections are also important for identifying potential safety hazards that could cause harm. This may include insufficient ventilation, the presence of combustible materials, or electrical wiring that is not properly grounded. The roofer will inspect the area and recommend any necessary repairs to make sure the attic is safe and secure. If you've been smelling burnt odors coming from the attic or have noticed a decrease in air quality in your home, it could be due to poor ventilation or the presence of pests. Professional roofers can inspect the area closely to ensure air ducts are clean and make any necessary repairs.

6. Before You Sell Your Home, Professional Roofers Can Inspect The Entire Attic Area

When you're looking to sell your home, the attic area must be in good shape. A professional roofer can assess the entire space for any potential hazards and make any repairs as necessary. This can be especially important if there are any signs of water damage or mold growth. A roofer can also check for signs of animal infestation and make sure the insulation is up to standard.

Do You Need to Call a Local Roofer For Your Attic?

Have you noticed water damage or mold in your attic? Are animals nesting in the eaves? If so, it's time to call a local roofer for an inspection. A professional roofer can spot any potential hazards and make any necessary repairs before you put your home on the market. They can also check air ducts and insulation levels to ensure that everything is up to code. If you're in South Florida, reach out to City Roofing and we'll help you sort out your roofing needs.