Time. Most people wish they had more of it. Most of us can agree on that point. In our ever-busy lives, time is a valuable (and indispensable) commodity. If you own a home, you understand that the roof’s performance is critical to the overall health of your structure. If the roof leaks or shows signs of excess wear and tear, your home’s interior spaces will likely be compromised.
A comprehensive roof inspection generally makes sense for determining your residential roof’s present condition. But how long does a roof inspection take? Will it require an hour or two? A half day? A full day? What if your roof is complex or has extensive square footage? Then what? Many homeowners shy away from scheduling a roof inspection because of the perceived (or actual) inconvenience.
How Long Does A Roof Inspection Take
The amount of time to facilitate a roof inspection depends on several crucial considerations. Typically, a homeowner can expect a roof inspection to take 1-2 hours. 
If the commercial or industrial structure has a particularly large (or complex) roofing system, the commercial roof inspection may involve as much as a day.
#1 – Accessibility Of The Roof
Access points to the roof make a significant difference. If the roof is relatively easy to reach, an inspector may not need as much time to perform their job. The process becomes far more complex and time-consuming if the roof has several levels or complex structures.
#2 – Age Of The Roof
Older roofs tend to suffer more wear and tear (and safety issues.) An inspector may need to take additional safety precautions (including involving particular safety tools and equipment) while facilitating an inspection on a roof reaching the end of its lifespan.
#3 – Complexity Of The Roof
An inspector may require more time to assess a roof’s condition if it involves many angles and pitches (or a steep slope). Additionally, if the roof has many protrusions (skylights, chimneys, vents, etc.), an inspector might need to scrutinize these areas individually.
#4 – Damage To The Roof
A deteriorating (or seriously dilapidated) roof will likely involve more of the inspector’s time than a roof that appears in relatively good condition. The inspector might need to perform extensive documentation of the roof damage and facilitate additional testing.
#5 – Square Footage Of The Roof
Assessing 20,000 square feet is different than 200,000 square feet. An inspector could be required to invest more time walking the length of the roof and closer examining areas requiring additional scrutinization.
#6 – Thoroughness Of Inspection
Not all inspections are created equal. Certain roofing inspections necessitate a comprehensive inspection of not just the roof’s surface but also its underlayment, which may include the attic and other interior spaces.
#7 – Weather Conditions
The prevailing weather on inspection day often plays a pivotal role in the length of an inspection. If it is raining, sleeting, hailing, or snowing (or other unsafe or inclement conditions exist), the inspector could be delayed in carrying out their responsibilities.
4 Ways To Prepare For A Roof Inspection
#1 – Clear Your Calendar To Be Available Before/During/Following The Inspection
Availability. When your roofing inspector arrives, you should be prepared to provide access to any place where they require access. Also, if they have questions or need specific information from you, being around helps the process
#2 – Prepare Questions And Communicate Concerns In Advance Of The Inspection
If you perceive specific roofing problems, convey your knowledge to the inspector beforehand. Let them know this information so that they will closely scrutinize these areas. Ask crucial and clarifying questions to help your understanding.
#3 – Remove Any Debris, Obstacles, Or Other Hindrances From The Scene
Safely address any potential issues at your property so that the inspector can perform their responsibilities efficiently without limitation. For example, if you own dogs, ensure they are kept out of the way during the inspection.
#4 – Review Any Existing Roof Warranties Or Insurance Policy Beforehand
Assess your coverage limits by reviewing the terms and conditions within your insurance policy and any roof warranties. Willingly share this information with the inspector in advance to help them know where to concentrate their efforts.
Red Diamond Roofing’s Inspection Method
At Red Diamond Roofing, we take a firm position – don’t cut corners! Before beginning the inspection, we consult with you to answer your questions and listen to your concerns. Once we start, we analyze your structure from the inside out. We pay particular attention to ceilings, walls, windows, attics, gutters, insulation, flashings, soffits, fascias, vents, underlayments, and structural elements.
During this process, we document (through photographic and video evidence) our observations and take core samples for further analysis. Once we complete this step, we organize our findings in a written report. We walk you through what we discover and explain any issues in substantial detail (and answer your questions). Finally, we assist you with determining the next course of action.
If your home or commercial property needs a roof inspection, contact Red Diamond Roofing today to schedule an appointment.
