A Step-by-Step Look from Van Martin Roofing
- May 15, 2026
- Zach Johnson
When homeowners hear the words roof inspection, many aren’t quite sure what to expect. Is it just a quick glance at the shingles? Will the inspector go inside the attic? What exactly are they looking for?
In Van Martin Roofing’s video, “What Happens During a Roof Inspection?”, Home Inspection Specialist, Zach walks homeowners through the complete inspection process—from the first conversation to the final recommendations.
The goal is simple: help homeowners understand the true condition of their roof and identify potential issues before they become costly problems.
Here’s a closer look at what happens during a professional roof inspection.
Starting with a Conversation
Every inspection begins with a discussion between the homeowner and the roofing specialist. Before climbing onto the roof, Zach takes time to learn about the homeowner’s concerns, including:
The age of the roof
Any history of leaks or storm damage
Areas of concern inside the home
Why the inspection was requested
This initial consultation helps the inspector understand the roof’s history and determine where to focus attention during the inspection.
As Zach explains in the video, every roof tells a story—and homeowner insight is an important part of uncovering it.
The Exterior Roof Inspection
Once the consultation is complete, the physical inspection begins.
Checking the Roof Edge and Underlayment
One of the first areas examined is the roof edge. The inspector looks at:
The drip edge installation
The number of roofing layers
The presence of ice and water membrane protection
In Ohio, building codes require ice and water membranes in vulnerable areas of the roof system. These materials help protect homes from water intrusion caused by ice dams and heavy moisture.
An improperly installed or outdated roofing system may not include these critical protections.
Inspecting Flashing and Seals
According to Zach, some of the most common roof leaks occur around flashing areas.
Flashing is the metal material installed around:
Chimneys
Roof-to-wall transitions
Vents
Valleys
Skylights
During the inspection, the roofing specialist looks for:
Exposed nails
Gaps or separations
Rust or deterioration
Improper sealing
Even a small flaw in flashing can allow water to enter the roofing system and create hidden damage over time.
Evaluating the Shingles
The next step involves closely examining the shingles themselves. The inspector checks for several signs of wear and aging, including:
Moss and Algae Growth
Dark streaks or green growth may indicate moisture retention and aging shingles. While algae may begin as a cosmetic issue, it can eventually impact roof performance.
Loose or Unsealed Shingles
Strong winds and temperature changes can cause shingles to loosen or fail to seal properly, increasing the risk of leaks.
Granule Loss
Granules are the protective outer layer of asphalt shingles. They shield the roof from harmful UV rays and weather exposure. When shingles begin losing granules, it’s often a sign that the roof is aging and may be nearing the end of its lifespan.
Take a second and watch a comprehensive video as Zach explains what will happen during a roof inspection and what he looks for.
Why the Attic Inspection Matters
Zach compares the attic inspection to “lifting the hood of a car.” While exterior issues are important, the attic often reveals what’s happening beneath the surface.
Inside the attic, inspectors look for signs of:
Moisture intrusion
Mold or mildew
Delaminating wood
Broken roof boards
Poor ventilation
One specific issue mentioned in the video is something called “cat eyes,” which are visible gaps or signs of stress in the decking structure.
These indicators can reveal long-term roofing problems that may not be obvious from outside the home.
Checking the Insulation
The insulation is another critical part of the attic inspection.
According to Zach, indentations or compressed areas in the insulation can indicate water penetration through the roofing system.
Wet insulation loses effectiveness and can contribute to:
Higher energy bills
Mold growth
Interior water damage
Reduced indoor comfort
Catching these warning signs early can save homeowners thousands of dollars in future repairs.
Reviewing the Findings with the Homeowner
After completing the inspection, the Van Martin Roofing team reviews everything with the homeowner using an app called CompanyCam.
This technology allows inspectors to:
Share detailed photos
Highlight areas of concern
Explain roofing issues visually
Provide transparency throughout the process
Instead of relying on technical jargon alone, homeowners can actually see the condition of their roof firsthand.
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Your roof is one of the most important systems protecting your home. Regular inspections can identify small problems before they become major repairs.
Whether you’ve noticed signs of damage, experienced a recent storm, or simply want peace of mind, a professional roof inspection can provide valuable insight into your roof’s condition.
