Roofs and Roofing

The roof keeps rain and other weather elements out of the house or building.  Heimer Engineering evaluates the general condition of the roof and estimates the remaining life on the roof.  Evidence of past or present roof leakage is also assessed.  The engineering report includes an expense analysis of any upcoming roof repair or replacement costs.

Most roofs are made of either asphalt, cedar, slate, or clay tile.  If a building has a pitched roof, the roof can be viewed from the site. (It is not advisable to climb onto this type of roof as a means of checking it.  Climbing on the roof can damage roof shingles, especially older shingles.  A leakage problem can be created simply by walking on a pitched roof surface.)

When the Engineer finds that a roof leaks, needs repairs, or will soon need replacement, an expense analysis of the needed repairs and replacement is provided.  This helps you plan for any upcoming roof replacement.

If the building has a pitched roof and an accessible attic, Heimer Engineering's Engineers look for evidence of roof leakage or damage to the sheathing.  The Engineer also looks for problems in the attic such as the amount of insulation present, water damage, and insufficient attic ventilation.  The amount of attic ventilation can have a significant effect on air-conditioning costs.

The majority of houses in the greater New York area were built when fuel was much less expensive.  Given today's high cost of fuel, checking for attic insulation is especially important.

Flat Roofs

Some buildings have flat roofs, accessed by a hatch.  If a safe permanent ladder is provided (and it is not blocked), the ladder can be used to access the roof.  The coping and parapets are often a source of leakage, and they are examined.

Beware if you are told the roof has "had work done on it".  Often, a roof that has "had work done" will need upcoming replacement.

If there is no safe access, then evidence of leakage is examined.  Recommendations will also be made based upon the probable age of the roof.  Because of the Engineer's experience, appropriate recommendations can be made even if there is no direct access to the roof.  This is important, since many flat-roofed buildings have no roof access.

To setup an appointment for a home inspection or building inspection, or for more information, call 800.640.8090 or use the online form 24/7.