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Intro:

As you set your sights on purchasing a home along the picturesque shores of the Outer Banks, North Carolina, it’s essential to understand the critical role that the roof plays in protecting your investment. A thorough roof inspection is paramount, ensuring the structural integrity and longevity of your potential home. In this blog post, we’ll explore what a home inspector might uncover when inspecting the roof of a coastal property in the Outer Banks, drawing insights from my actual experience as someone who has installed and repaired roofing on homes of the Outer Banks.

1. Weathering the Elements:

The Outer Banks region is known for its unique coastal climate, characterized by high winds, salt air, and occasional severe weather events. These environmental factors can take a toll on roofing materials over time, leading to deterioration, damage, and potential leaks. During a roof inspection, your home inspector will assess the condition of shingles, flashing, and other components to identify signs of weather-related wear and tear.

2. Wind Damage and Loose Shingles:

Given the prevalence of strong winds along the Outer Banks, wind damage is a common concern for homeowners. Loose or missing shingles, lifted flashing, and displaced ridge caps are telltale signs of wind-related damage that your inspector will be on the lookout for. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to prevent water intrusion and further deterioration of the roof structure. Another factor when evaluating composite asphalt shingles is the installation methods used. There are a couple different ways shingles can be installed and these methods often affect the shingle life or susceptibility to wind damage.

3. Salt Air Corrosion:

The proximity to the ocean exposes homes in the Outer Banks to salt air, which can accelerate corrosion of roofing materials, particularly metal components such as flashing and gutters. We will inspect these areas for signs of rust, corrosion, and deterioration, recommending repairs or replacement as needed to ensure the longevity of the roof.

4. Roof Pitch, Design and Drainage:

Proper roof pitch and drainage are essential for diverting water away from the home and preventing water pooling or ponding, which can lead to leaks and water damage. Your inspector will evaluate the slope of the roof, the condition of gutters and downspouts, and the effectiveness of drainage systems to identify any potential drainage issues that may need to be addressed. The design of complex roof systems often result in very concentrated areas of heavy water runoff from roof valleys. These complex designs often contribute to deterioration and water intrusion and are considered during home inspections.

5. Skylights and Roof Penetrations:

Homes in the Outer Banks often feature skylights, chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations, which can be vulnerable areas for water intrusion if not properly sealed and maintained. We will carefully examine these penetrations, assessing the condition of flashing, seals, and surrounding roofing materials to ensure they are watertight and secure.

Things I’ve found during roof inspections in the last month;

1. roofs with two layers of shingles

2. roofs with inadequate ventilation, which caused the shingles to blister and deteriorate

3. curling shingles

4. improper flashings around chimneys

5. absence of kick out flashings causing damage to the siding/interior of the home

6. improper gutter installation, causing damage to the fascia trim and siding

7. decayed/soft roof sheathing from leaks

8. deteriorated, leaking plumbing vent boots

9. missing vent boots

10. leaking skylights

11. wind-damaged shingles

12. roof damage from tree limbs

13. nails displacing shingles

Conclusion:

A comprehensive roof inspection is a vital step in the home buying process, particularly for properties in coastal regions like the Outer Banks, NC. By understanding the unique challenges posed by the coastal climate and the importance of a sound roof in protecting your investment, you can make informed decisions and ensure the long-term durability and safety of your new home. Trust Hawk Home Inspections to uncover any potential issues and provide recommendations for maintenance and repairs, ensuring peace of mind.