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

What Is 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. When looking to purchase a property in Jersey City, NJ, roof inspections help to reveal any hidden problems or defects with the roof, allowing negotiation power over the seller. Here at Jersey City 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 Jersey City Roof Inspection:

What Our Roof Inspections Include:

The Basics/What We're Looking For

When Jersey City Roof Inspectionâ„  conducts a Roof Inspection, we always inspect and examine the overall condition of your roof, but we also check specific areas that tend to get damaged easily in areas of extreme wind, heavy rains, and constant sun exposure. Some things we tend to check the conditions of are:

  • Gutters

  • Flashings

  • Skylights

  • Chimneys

  • Attic Space (If needed)​​

Regardless of their condition, Jersey City Roof Inspectionâ„  will inform you of whether or not these specific areas are in need of some extra attention, if they need repairs, or if they just need to be completely replaced. ​In the event that these areas are in good condition, we'll let you know how to maintain them to keep your roof in tip-top shape! By conducting a thorough investigation of your roof, we'll be able to provide you with the most detailed and comprehensive roof inspection report out of any local roofer near you.  

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Photos & Drone Video/Photo Documentation

Here at Jersey City Roof Inspectionâ„ , we provide our customers with detailed marked-up photos of their roof and any damages that we encounter. Oftentimes when customers request a roof inspection, they need photos of the damage to show their insurance company and/or simply want to see what our roofers/estimators have spotted. Using advanced technology such as state-of-the-art drones and special online mark-up systems, we are able to provide our customers with detailed photos of the damages as well as what needs to be repaired or replaced. 

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Our cutting edge drone technology helps us to see blind spots and the entire surface of a roof. Our drones also allow us to document various kinds of roof conditions and issues, such as:

  • Aging & general wear-and-tear of your roof, roofing materials, and other areas such as your homes gutters.

  • Stains or water marks due to moisture retention or leaks.

  • Loose or missing shingles, roof tiles, etc.

  • Bent or curled edges of metal panel roofing or fascia metal.

  • Holes made by burrowing rodents, such as squirrels & birds.

  • Deterioration of wooden roof soffits and fascia.

  • Punctures, tears, or holes due to fallen objects such as tree branches.

  • Malfunctioning gutter systems and downspouts.

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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 Jersey City 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 Jersey City Roof Inspectionâ„ , we use special infrared/thermal 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 useful for:

  • Sale of your home or property

  • Purchasing a new home

  • Future sales

  • Appraisals 

  • Insurance claims

  • Roof maintenance recommendations

  • Providing a safe roof over your head

  • If you never had an inspection at your current home

  • After a big storm

  • If you notice any damages on your roof

 

Here are a few more 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 Jersey City roof inspections near me, you'll probably find multiple different roofing companies promoting that they have the best inspections, but in most cases this simply isn't true, or some sort of marketing tactic to get you hooked. When searching for a roofing contractor that not only performs a roof inspection on your roof, but can also give you a detailed roof inspection report, be sure to look out for these specific points:​​

  • Reviews: Just as you would normally do when looking up any company that you're planning on hiring, you should definitely take a look at a companies reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, the BBB, or any other platform that customers can leave reviews on. Reviews can and will give you insight to how a company performs, how well their customer service is, and most importantly, the overall quality of the work or service performed.

  • Location: Where your contractor and their shop are located is just as important as reviews, as you'll want a contractor that knows the area well. When a contractor is local to your area, they'll be able to pin-point specific problem areas that are common on other roofs in Jersey City, NJ. Having a local roofer is also important because if you have a question about your property, want to meet in person regarding your job or scheduled work, or simply just would like to have a conversation about your inspection or inspection report, you'll always know where to find them!

  • Specializations: When looking for the right roofing contractor to perform an inspection on your roof and to write you up an inspection report, it is important to note if they actually do the work that they're recommending gets done. Many times, especially here in Jersey City, NJ, you'll find that there are many 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 Jersey City Roof Inspection, Roof Inspection Jersey City, Roof Inspections near me, etc., look no further, Jersey City 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, Jersey City 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 Jersey City Roof Inspectionâ„ ! 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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