Residential Roof Inspections

🛠️ What’s Inspected on the Roof During a Home Inspection in Ohio?

At Mook Home Inspections, the roof is one of the most critical components we evaluate during a home inspection. In Ohio, where the weather can bring everything from heavy snow to intense summer storms, roof integrity is essential to protecting the home from the elements. Here’s a closer look at what we inspect—and the common issues we find.

🏠 What We Inspect on the Roof

Whether we physically walk the roof or inspect it from the ground(depending on safety and access), our inspection covers:

1. Roof Covering Material

We assess the condition of the roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, metal panels, slate, or tile. We’re looking for signs of wear, aging, damage, or poor installation.

2. Flashings

Flashings are metal or rubber components installed around roof penetrations (chimneys, skylights, vents). We check for rust, cracks, detachment, or improper installation.

3. Roof Penetrations

We inspect all roof penetrations including plumbing vents, attic fans, and satellite mounts to ensure they’re properly sealed and not allowing moisture into the home.

4. Gutters and Downspouts

We check for proper gutter installation, secure attachment, clogging, and proper water drainage away from the home.

5. Chimneys

We inspect the visible chimney structure above the roofline for loose bricks, deteriorated mortar, missing rain caps, or flashing issues.

6. Skylights

If present, skylights are examined for proper installation and signs of leakage or condensation between panes.

7. Roof Structure (from the Attic)

We also inspect the roof’s structural components from inside the attic: rafters, trusses, decking, and signs of water intrusion or sagging.

🔍 Common Roof Defects Found in Ohio Homes

Ohio’s seasonal changes and weather patterns tend to lead to a few recurring roofing problems:

🔹Granule Loss on Shingles

Especially on older roofs, shingle granules may wear off, reducing the material’s ability to protect against UV rays and water intrusion.

🔹Damaged or Missing Shingles

High winds, hail, or poor installation can cause shingles to curl, crack, or fall off entirely.

🔹Improper Flashing Installation

Flashing that’s improperly installed or deteriorated is a leading cause of roof leaks—especially around chimneys and valleys.

🔹Nail Pops

Over time, roofing nails can back out of the decking, causing raised areas under shingles and making them more susceptible to wind damage.

🔹Algae or Moss Growth

In shaded or moist areas, moss and algae can grow on shingles, accelerating deterioration and potentially causing moisture damage underneath.

🔹Poor Attic Ventilation

Improper ventilation can lead to heat and moisture buildup in the attic, which can shorten the roof’s lifespan and contribute to mold or wood rot.

🔹Clogged or Damaged Gutters

Blocked gutters can cause water to back up onto the roof or down the exterior walls, leading to wood rot and foundation issues.

🧰 Why It Matters

Even small roofing issues can lead to significant and expensive damage if left unaddressed. That’s why a thorough roof inspection is a vital part of any real estate transaction or annual maintenance check.

At Mook Home Inspections, we help Ohio homeowners and buyers get the full picture—so you can make informed decisions, avoid costly surprises, and protect your investment.

Have Mook Take A Look!

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just want peace of mind, schedule your inspection with Mook Home Inspections today.