Getting a new roof is a massive investment. Once the crew packs up their tools, you might think the job is over. However, the most important part happens right at the end. A final walkthrough ensures your home is actually protected from the elements. You need to know the grit of what to look for so you aren’t left with a leaky mess during the next big storm.
Key Takeaways
- Ensuring every row is straight and properly overlapped.
- Checking the metal around chimneys and vents for a tight seal.
- Verifying that nails are driven flat and not sticking up.
- Making sure the metal edges hang correctly over the gutters.
- Confirming that the new roof hasn’t blocked your home’s airflow.
- Scanning the yard for dangerous nails and old shingle scraps.
7 Quality Checks Every Homeowner Needs to Consider
A professional crew won’t just leave after the last shingle is nailed down. They will perform a series of tests to make sure the “shell” of your house is solid. Here is how a high-quality inspection works:
1. Inspecting the Shingle Pattern
The first thing to look at is the visual layout. Shingles should be perfectly horizontal. If you see “zig-zags” or uneven gaps, it means the shingles weren’t started correctly. This isn’t just about looks; uneven shingles can let wind catch the edges and rip them off. When looking for roof installation springfield il experts ask if they use chalk lines to keep everything straight during the build.
2. Testing the Flashing Seals
Flashing is the metal used in the “valleys” and around things like your chimney. This is the most common place for a leak. A quality check involves looking at the sealant used on these metal parts. It should be thick, smooth, and cover every gap. If the metal looks loose or is missing caulk, the roof will leak the very first time it rains.
3. Searching for High Nails
Nails should be driven flush into the shingle. If a nail is crooked or sticking up even a tiny bit, it is called a “high nail.” Over time, the sun will cause the shingle above it to wear down, eventually poking a hole right through. A good contractor walks the roof and taps down any nail that isn’t perfectly flat.
4. Checking the Drip Edge and Gutters
The metal drip edge should overhang your gutters just enough to guide water away from your wood fascia. If it’s too short, water will run behind the gutter and rot your home’s framing. While you are at it, check the gutters. They should be clear of the heavy “sand” (granules) that fall off new shingles during installation.
5. Verifying Attic Airflow
A new roof can sometimes accidentally block your old vents. If your attic can’t breathe, your shingles will “bake” from the inside out and fail in just a few years. An inspector will check the ridge vents at the top of the house to make sure they are cut open and clear. This is a step many roofing companies near me might skip to save time.
6. Checking Pipe Boots and Vents
The rubber “boots” around your plumbing pipes need to be tight. If they are cracked or don’t fit the pipe perfectly, water will run straight down into your kitchen or bathroom ceiling. These should be brand new, never reused from your old roof. If they look weathered or dirty, they weren’t replaced.
7. The Ground-Level Magnet Sweep
Quality isn’t just about the roof; it’s about your yard too. A pro crew will use a giant magnet to pick up every single dropped nail. If you find more than a handful of nails in your driveway or grass, the cleanup wasn’t done right. This also goes for old pieces of felt paper and shingle grit that can kill your grass.
Read Also: What causes premature roof failure?
Conclusion
A new roof is only as good as the final inspection. Taking the time to check the details now prevents massive headaches down the road. You want a team that is proud of its work and willing to show you every detail. For a crew that understands the grit and quality required for a local home, you should talk to Sutton’s – a GAF Master Elite certified company with reliable services. We make sure every nail, vent, and shingle is perfect before the job is officially done.
FAQs
Should I get on the roof myself to check the work?
It is usually safer to stay on the ground and use binoculars. You can see shingle alignment and flashing issues quite well from a distance. If you must go up, wait for a dry day and wear shoes with a good grip.
What if I see a few loose granules in my gutters?
That is normal for a brand-new roof. Shingles are coated in extra “sand” to protect them during shipping. A small amount will wash off during the first few rains. However, if you see piles of it, the shingles might be damaged.
Does my siding need an inspection, too?
Often, residential siding contractors find that roofers accidentally dent or scratch the siding during the installation. It’s a good idea to walk the perimeter of your house and make sure your siding and window screens are still in perfect shape.
How long should a final walkthrough take?
A thorough check usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. The contractor should walk around the house with you, point out the new features, and show you photos of the areas you can’t see from the ground.
