Roof Inspection Checklist: What to Expect

Q: How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine. Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms. Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events. Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster. Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below. Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss. Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

Q: How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting. Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling. Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials. Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices. Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here.

Q: Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery , you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

June 11, 2019•3 min read•

EducationRoof Inspection

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Roof Inspection Checklist: What Every Florida Homeowner Should Know

Believe it or not, the average roof protects your home for about 20 years—but only with proper care. That’s why using a roof inspection checklist is so important.

Most homeowners don’t regularly examine their roofs, which means small issues often go unnoticed until they become expensive problems. A professional roof inspection helps catch minor damage before it gets worse.

Here’s a simple yet effective roof inspection checklist to help you understand what inspectors look for and how you can prepare for your own roof checkup.

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The Profile of the Roof

A roof inspection often starts from the ground. The inspector evaluates the overall roof shape and slope to check for sagging lines, warped profiles, or uneven surfaces. Peaks should be parallel to the ground and not bulging or dipping in areas.

If your roofline looks warped or uneven, it may indicate internal damage that could compromise your home’s structure. Address these issues promptly to avoid expensive repairs later.

Inspect the Roofing Materials

Next, the inspector evaluates the condition of the actual roofing materials. With metal roofing, they’ll look for rust, dents, or lifted panels. For asphalt shingles, they’ll examine for curling, cracking, or missing granules.

Even one missing shingle can cause a leak. If wear and tear are widespread, a roof replacement might be the smarter long-term choice.

Monitor Flashing for Rust and Cracks

Roof flashing—found around chimneys, skylights, and vents—is essential for waterproofing. Rust, warping, or separation from the surface means water could be leaking into your home. Damaged flashing should be repaired or replaced immediately.

Check the Gutters

Gutters help carry rainwater off the roof and away from your home’s foundation. During an inspection, they’ll be checked for:

Clogs or heavy debris
Separation from the fascia board
Improper slope or drainage

Neglected gutters can allow water to seep into your roof decking and walls, leading to rot and mold.

Attic Insulation and Ventilation

Inspectors also go inside the attic to assess insulation and ventilation. Proper attic airflow prevents moisture buildup and helps extend the life of your roof.

They’ll check the rafters and sheathing for dampness, mold, or signs of critters. If your attic feels too warm or humid, ventilation may be inadequate, increasing the risk of future roof damage.

Check for Mold and Rot

The inspector will look for mold or wood rot in the attic or roof decking. Even if insulation looks okay, trapped moisture can lead to serious structural and health issues. Mold is not just a cosmetic concern—it can lead to respiratory problems and worsen allergies.

Evaluate Overall Installation Quality

Was your roof installed correctly? Poor installation can reduce the lifespan of even the best materials. A trained eye can spot issues with nail patterns, underlayment, or alignment that may cause leaks down the road.

If your inspector raises concerns about how your roof was installed, take their advice seriously and address the problems proactively.

Use This Roof Inspection Checklist to Prepare

Every home and roof is unique, but this checklist gives you a clear idea of what professional roofers evaluate. To make your inspection smoother:

Clear a path to attic access points
Move patio furniture or vehicles away from roofing access zones
Take note of any recent roof issues you’ve noticed

If it’s been a while since your last inspection—or you’ve noticed signs of trouble—schedule a professional inspection with SonShine Roofing. We’ve been helping Sarasota homeowners protect their roofs since 1987.

General FAQs

Does attic insulation and ventilation really make a difference?

Yes—more than most homeowners realize. Your roof surface can run nearly 100°F hotter than the air on summer days, and attics can hit the high 100s. Without proper insulation and balanced airflow, that heat and moisture can warp beams, fry shingles from beneath, and invite rot. The fix is straightforward: sufficient attic insulation plus soffit intake + ridge exhaust ventilation to move hot, wet air out.

How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting.
Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling.
Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials.
Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices.
Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here.

What causes roof leaks?

Leaks usually start at weak points—not just during hurricanes. In Florida, extreme heat and UV make materials expand/contract, turning brittle and cracking over time; even asphalt tar can soften and lose its seal.

Aging roof: Heat/UV cycles degrade shingles and seals, opening paths for water.

Flashing failures: Cracked, rusted, or separated metal around chimneys, vents, valleys, and walls.
Missing/damaged shingles: Wind and storms pull or crack shingles, exposing underlayment and decking.
Clogged gutters: Standing water backs up under edges and soaks materials—especially in rainy season.
Skylight leaks: Worn rubber seals or loose skylight flashing let water in at the frame.

Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery, you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine.

Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms.
Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events.
Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster.
Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below.
Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss.
Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

What’s the best roof type for Florida homes?

There isn’t a single winner—it’s about matching material to Sarasota’s heat, humidity, storms, wind, and (for coastal folks) salt spray. Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and common; concrete and clay tiles bring serious longevity and wind resistance; metal reflects heat and shrugs off salt; slate is gorgeous and ultra-durable but heavy and costly. The “best” choice balances your budget, aesthetics, structural needs, and how exposed your home is to wind and sea air.