Roof inspections are inspections designed to determine the integrity of a roof, how long it may last, and when it will likely need to be replaced.  A roof inspection can be part of a general home inspection or can be requested independent of any other inspections.  Proper maintenance is the key to a roofs longevity. A roof inspection is critical in determining what maintenance may need to be performed, and is a must do for every homeowner and every homebuyer. Roofing systems can weaken from normal wear, severe weather conditions, building settlement and poor design, construction and maintenance, and failures can be caused by a number of additional factors, including age, severe weather, poor workmanship, defective or low quality materials, improper specification of a roofing system, abuse and poor maintenance.

Roof inspectors are not likely to climb up on your roof or the roof of a home you are thinking of buying, and move shingles or tiles.  Roof inspectors have special procedures wherein they can determine the lifespan of a given roof without damaging and tearing into it.  Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof covering in residential constructions and are available in several different grades.  Roof tiles are made from various different materials such as clay, concrete, synthetic, metal or slate. Roof flashings are required on all the places on your roof where various surfaces intersect.