To inspect a roofing job, you need to check the shingles, flashing, gutters, and work quality before final payment. A good inspection takes time and attention to detail. You should look for gaps, loose nails, and poor sealing. Most homeowners miss problems because they do not know what to look for. This guide will show you exactly what to check.
What Should You Look for?
Start by checking the shingles for damage. Look at the color, shape, and edges. Shingles should lay flat and overlap neatly. According to industry data, about 33% of homeowners need roof work due to leaking, so check for signs of water damage or curled edges.
Next, inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing is metal that seals gaps and stops water leaks. It should be tight and sealed with caulk or tar. Loose flashing is a major source of leaks.
Related articles:
- How Much Does a Roofing Company Make Per Job
- Is Replacing a Roof a Big Job
- How Do I Estimate a Roofing Job
- How Do You Price a Roofing Job
- Is Roofing a Good Job
- How Do You Bid a Roofing Job
- How to Charge for a Roofing Job
- What Is Roofing Job
- How Long Does a Roofing Job Take
- Which Tools Help Manage Roofing Job Estimates
Check the Gutters and Edges
Walk around and look at the gutters. They should be clean and secure. Debris buildup can cause water to back up onto your roof. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the average U.S. roof size is 26.47 squares or about 2,647 square feet, so gutters run a long distance and need full coverage.
Check the roof edges and corners for gaps or missing pieces. Look for nail pops where nails stick out from shingles. These can tear and leak.
Look at Installation Quality
Good roofing work shows straight, even rows of shingles. Nails should be placed high on shingles in a straight line. According to RubyHome, roof installation cost ranges from $4 to $40 per square foot, and quality workmanship matters greatly for long-term durability.
Check that no shingles are cracked, torn, or buckled. Count the nails: each shingle needs 4 to 6 nails. Missing nails are a red flag.
Final Safety Check
Look for proper ventilation. You should see roof vents that are installed correctly and sealed. According to industry data, proper ventilation helps prevent damage and extends roof life.
Use binoculars from the ground if the roof is high. Do not climb on a new roof. Document any problems with photos. Ask the contractor to fix issues before you pay the full bill.
| Issue | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Lifted shingles | Wind or poor installation |
| Loose flashing | Water will leak soon |
| Crooked rows | Poor workmanship |
| Missing nails | Shingles will blow away |
Related articles:
- How to Price a Roofing Job
- How Do You Estimate a Roofing Job
- How to Bid a Metal Roofing Job
- How Much Is a Roofing Job
- How to Quote a Roofing Job
- How to Price Out a Roofing Job
- How to Get a Roofing Job
- How Much Should a Roofing Job Cost
- How Much Does a Roofing Job Cost
Work with a professional roofing contractor to protect your property with quality roofing solutions.