Your roof is your best ally against bad weather. But like any good ally, it needs a little attention from time to time. When to inspect your roof then becomes a crucial question to avoid unpleasant surprises (and hefty bills!).

Don't worry, we're here to guide you!

The frequency of roof inspections depends on several factors, including:

Seasonal Changes:

The rhythm of the seasons is a good indicator for inspecting your roof.

• Spring: After the harsh winter months, a spring inspection is essential to identify damage caused by snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles. Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracks in the sealant joints, water accumulation, and signs of leaks.
• Fall: Before winter arrives, a fall inspection helps prepare your roof for the challenges of snow and ice. Clean the gutters of leaves and debris, check the flashing and sealants, and make any necessary repairs before the cold weather sets in.

Weather Events:

Mother Nature is unpredictable: inspect after storms, and remember that intense summer heat and winter cold can also damage your roof.

• Severe Storms: High winds, hail, and heavy rains can cause significant roof damage. Inspect your roof after severe weather events to assess any damage.
• Extreme Temperatures: Intense heat and cold can also damage roofing materials. Inspect your roof more frequently in regions with extreme climates, such as here in Canada.

Age and Condition of the Building:

Time passes, and roofs age too. A new roof is like a new car: you feel like it will always be in perfect condition. But even new roofs need to be inspected!

• New Roofs: While new roofs are generally less prone to problems, inspections are recommended to detect any installation issues that may still be covered by the warranty, as well as to detect other signs of early wear and tear.
• Old Roofs: Roofs over 15 years old should be inspected at least twice a year, as they are more prone to damage, deterioration, and material fatigue.

Type of Building:

• Commercial Buildings: Commercial roofs, especially flat roofs, are often subject to more traffic and heavier loads, requiring more frequent inspections (at least twice a year, and more often for older roofs).
• Residential Buildings: Residential roofs typically require less frequent inspections, as they are generally smaller and subject to lower external loads, but seasonal checks (twice a year) are still essential.

Local Regulations:

Before climbing onto your roof (with all the necessary precautions, of course!), find out about your region's building codes and your insurance requirements.

• Building Codes: Some areas have building codes that dictate specific roof inspection frequencies. Check with your local building department for guidelines.
• Insurance Requirements: Some insurance policies may require regular roof inspections as a condition of coverage.
• Warranty Requirements: Some warranty policies may require regular roof inspections as a condition of coverage.

Beyond the Calendar: Signs That an Inspection is Needed

Beyond scheduled inspections, be alert for these warning signs that indicate a potential problem:

Inside the building:

• Water stains: Discoloration or dampness on ceilings or walls could indicate a leak.
• Mold growth: Black, green, or white spots on ceilings, walls, or insulation are signs of moisture and possible mold growth.
• Sagging ceilings: A sagging or drooping ceiling could indicate structural damage from a roof leak.
• Musty odors: A persistent musty odor, especially after rain, could suggest a hidden moisture problem.
• Cracks in windows: During winter, small cracks appearing in windows can be a sign that your roof is under a heavy snow load and requires immediate attention.

Outside the building:

• Missing or damaged shingles: Look for broken, curled, or missing shingles, which make your roof vulnerable to leaks.
• Damaged flashing: Flashing, the metal strips that seal around vents and chimneys, can rust or come loose, allowing water to seep in.
• Clogged gutters: Leaves, debris, and ice dams can clog gutters, causing water to overflow, potentially damaging the roof or foundation.
• Sagging roof deck: A noticeable dip or sag in the roof deck could signal structural issues.

Seasonal inspections are a good starting point, but it’s tricky to determine if more or less frequent inspections are necessary or the perfect time to conduct them, as problems often arise between scheduled inspections. As your building may be remote or the rooftop difficult/dangerous to access, it can be unappealing to perform extra checks.

Wouldn’t it be better to have a vigilant guardian on your rooftop, constantly monitoring its condition and only alerting you when action is truly needed? If this sounds familiar, you’ve come to the right place. This is where the power of intelligent roof monitoring, like Domely , truly shines, offering a proactive, efficient, data-driven alternative to the traditional climb-and-inspect routine.

If you want to learn more about inspections, read our complete guide .