“Free roof inspection” can mean anything from a two-minute driveway glance to a documented, top-to-bottom assessment. Here is what a real inspection covers, so you know what to expect — and what to demand.
The Exterior: More Than Shingles
- Shingle condition — curling, cracking, granule loss, blistering, and whether sealant strips are still bonded.
- Flashing — chimney, valleys, skylights, and wall intersections. Most leaks start here, not in the roof field.
- Penetrations — pipe boots and vents whose rubber gaskets crack years before shingles fail.
- Ridge and hip lines — checking caps, ridge vent condition, and any sign of sagging.
- Gutters and drip edge — drainage failures cause roof-edge rot that looks like a roofing problem.
The Interior: Attic Tells the Truth
The attic reveals what the surface hides: water staining on decking, soft or delaminating boards, wet insulation, mold, daylight through gaps, and ventilation performance. An inspection that skips the attic is half an inspection.
What You Should Receive
A written summary with photos of everything flagged, a clear repair-versus-replace recommendation, and pricing you can hold onto. You should never feel pressure to sign anything on the spot.
When to Schedule One
- After any major wind or hail event
- Before buying or selling a home
- If your roof is 15+ years old and has never been assessed
- Annually, as cheap insurance on your biggest asset
Magothy Roofing and Exteriors provides honest, photo-documented roof inspections throughout Severna Park and Anne Arundel County. Call 410-793-9516 to schedule.