A roof is your home’s first defense against the elements, but only if it’s in good shape. At First State Roofing & Exteriors, your trusted roofing contractor, we offer professional roof inspection services designed to keep your roofing system safe, secure, and storm-ready. Our certified inspectors detect issues before they escalate, helping homeowners avoid costly damage and premature roof replacements.
For code requirements in the region, see the Delaware State Housing Authority for updates on building standards that may affect your roofing system.
Why Choose First State Roofing & Exteriors
Local Expertise
We understand the unique challenges of Milford’s climate, including freeze-thaw cycles, humidity, and seasonal storms.
Licensed & Insured
All our professionals are fully certified, and our work is backed by comprehensive insurance policies.
All-in-One Service
Whether it’s a small repair or a complete roof overhaul, we manage the entire project from start to finish with no outsourcing.
What Is a Roof Inspection?
A roof inspection is a detailed evaluation of your roofing system’s condition, including structure, materials, and overall performance. Our inspectors examine both exterior and interior components to identify:
- Missing or damaged shingles: We check for curled, broken, or absent asphalt shingles, which expose your roof to moisture. Neglected shingles can shorten the roof’s lifespan and void warranties.
- Flashing and sealant issues: Loose or deteriorated flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is a common entry point for water. Sealing these properly prevents leaks and mold.
- Signs of water intrusion: Stains on ceilings, mold in the attic, or damp insulation can indicate active leaks. Early detection helps avoid structural rot.
- Sagging or uneven roof planes: These can signal structural weaknesses or long-term moisture exposure. If untreated, it could lead to partial collapse.
- Gutter performance and debris: Clogged or broken gutters often contribute to roof edge rot and water pooling. Ensuring smooth water flow preserves your fascia and soffits.
Our team uses photos, detailed notes, and moisture meters when necessary to ensure no hidden issue is missed.
Reasons to Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Homeowners often delay inspections until problems surface, but early detection saves money and stress. Here’s why professional roof inspections matter:
- Storm aftercare: Delaware storms can damage shingles and flashing in ways not visible from the ground. Post-storm inspections help identify hidden vulnerabilities.
- Buying or selling a home: A documented inspection can increase resale value and help buyers feel confident. It also supports faster closings.
- Seasonal maintenance: Before and after winter, roof inspections can prevent ice damming and identify damage from snow or wind. This reduces emergency repair costs.
- Insurance claims: Documented inspections support valid damage claims after hail, wind, or fallen debris events. Insurers are more likely to approve well-documented reports.
What Does a Roof Inspector Look For?
Our roof inspectors evaluate all key roofing elements, including:
- Shingles and surface materials (asphalt, metal, rubber, slate): Checking for aging, loss of granules, and signs of weathering.
- Flashings and joints: Areas around chimneys, skylights, and vents are prime leak sources. We ensure proper sealing and stability.
- Underlayment and decking: Inspection from the attic may reveal mold, moisture stains, or soft decking.
- Roof penetration points: These include plumbing vents and HVAC exhausts, which often develop leaks without proper sealing.
- Gutters and downspouts: We assess whether water is draining properly and if gutter backup could be harming the roof edge.
By evaluating each layer of your roof, we can give you a full picture of its health.
When Should I Have My Roof Inspected?
Homeowners should follow a regular inspection schedule. Here’s when we recommend booking one:
- Twice annually, once in the spring and once in the fall, is best for most homes. This routine helps catch seasonal wear and tear.
- After a major storm, even small hail or 50+ mph winds can dislodge shingles or flashing.
- Before selling your home: A documented inspection adds credibility and transparency.
- If your roof is 10+ years old: Most asphalt roofs start to show wear after a decade, especially in Delaware’s coastal climate.
According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of roof repair after missed damage from inspections is $1,200–$2,500, proof that prevention is cost-effective.
At First State Roofing & Exteriors, we offer free roof inspections for homeowners. This includes a detailed evaluation with photos and a full condition report. For real estate transactions or insurance reports that require certified documentation, pricing may vary.
Most roof inspections take between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on roof size, complexity, and attic access. We ensure every inspection is thorough and nothing is overlooked, especially after harsh storms or heavy winds.
We inspect shingles, flashing, gutters, attic ventilation, roof decking, and any signs of water damage. Our team uses moisture detection tools and drone imaging when necessary to spot hidden problems.
While you can visually check from the ground for missing shingles or debris, professional inspections are safer and more thorough. Our trained team knows what to look for and how to document it properly, especially for insurance or home sales.
We recommend twice a year, in spring and fall, for most homes. Also, schedule an inspection after any major storm, hail event, or high-wind warning. Delaware averages 25+ thunderstorm days per year, so proactive care matters.
Yes. Hidden leaks and flashing failures often go unnoticed until major damage occurs. Regular inspections can catch these issues early, saving homeowners thousands in potential repair costs.
Contact Us Today
First State Roofing & Exteriors
202 E Mt Vernon St #1, Smyrna, DE 19977
Phone: (302) 222-4065
Business Hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours