Whether buying a new home, selling your current one, or just doing a routine check-up, hiring a home inspector is a common and important step for homeowners. A good inspection can provide peace of mind or uncover hidden problems before they become costly repairs. However, even experienced home inspectors can miss issues on the roof, especially ones that only a seasoned roofing professional would recognize.
Invisible issues are the problem
When inspecting a home, the roof often hides some of the most critical—and expensive—issues. While home inspectors are trained to spot visible damage, many roofing deficiencies fly under the radar unless you’re an experienced roofing professional.
At Absolute Roof Solutions, we’ve repaired thousands of roofs and know where problems like to hide.
Here are 10 common deficiencies we frequently find that even seasoned home inspectors may overlook:
1. Improper Flashing Around Roof Penetrations
Incorrect or missing flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is a major leak source. Many inspections stop at a visual glance, but issues with improperly sealed or aged flashing can go unnoticed until damage is severe.
2. Poor Roof Ventilation
Ventilation is often misunderstood. Improper balance between intake and exhaust can cause heat buildup, moisture retention, and premature deterioration of shingles and sheathing.
3. Shingle Overhang Errors
Shingles should extend just the right distance past the roof edge. Too far, and they can snap in the wind; too short, and water will seep underneath. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
4. Exposed or Rusting Fasteners
Nails and screws used on metal or shingle roofs must be sealed and corrosion-resistant. Unsealed fasteners or rusted nails are signs of future leaks and poor installation practices.
5. Layering Over Old Shingles
While layering shingles is sometimes permitted, it often hides damage underneath and compromises the new roof’s performance. Inspectors may miss this unless they know where to look.
6. Inadequate Valley Protection
Valleys carry the highest volume of rainwater. Leaks are almost guaranteed without proper underlayment or metal flashing in these areas. Valleys should always get special attention during inspection.
7. Cracked or Warped Shingles
It’s easy to miss subtle signs of cracking, curling, or warping, especially from ground level. These are early warning signs that the roof is nearing the end of its life.
8. Missing Drip Edge Flashing
Drip edges guide water off the eaves and into the gutters. Without them, water can soak the fascia and rot the roof deck over time. Many homes built before recent code updates are missing this critical component.
9. Moss and Debris Buildup in Valleys and Gutters
Moss traps moisture and causes shingles to lift and deteriorate. Gutters full of debris can overflow and damage roof edges. Inspectors might note moss but not fully grasp the impact unless trained in roofing.
10. Flat Roof Ponding
On flat or low-slope roofs, ponding water is a red flag. It signals poor drainage and, over time, leads to membrane failure or leaks. Unless inspected from the roof surface, this issue often goes undetected.
Trust the Experts to Catch What Others Miss
A general inspection provides a good overview but is no substitute for a dedicated roofing evaluation. If you’re buying a home or want to ensure your current roof is in top shape, call Absolute Roof Solutions.
Our team knows what to look for and how to fix it right the first time.
