How do we inspect a roof?

Well, this is a question that comes up a lot so here are a few ways to answer the question.

1. First, we always survey the roof from the ground and all sides – looking for anything that would be a safety concern, obvious easily visible issues, and the correct/safe access point.
2. Ideally, we walk the roof – meaning if we can safely access the roof and physically walk on it we do. Being up and close to roof covering, venting, chimneys and such is the best way to ensure we can spot any concerns.
3. If the roof is not safe to walk – there are a few other ways we can inspect it.
   1. Drones are a great tool for surveying roofs. With high-resolution cameras and the means to access just about any height, we can usually get a really good look at the roof.
   2. Now in the town of Canmore for example drones are generally not an option due to flight restrictions stemming from the local helicopters and bylaws (most inspections are not booked far enough out to file the required paperwork and get approval to fly). So, what is the alternative?
   3. An Eye-stick is a tool we use regularly – a 30+ foot extension pole with a high-resolution camera affixed to the top that is remotely controlled from a smartphone makes for an extremely safe means to inspect the roof. There are not very many areas of the roof that cannot be seen, and the camera can zoom into the granular of the shingles.
   4. From a ladder at the eaves. Generally, a more limited inspection but in some cases i.e., a high-pitched roof that is clear of snow can usually be inspected this way by locating the ladder at several different points around the house. This method of inspection is the most common when the roof is covered with snow – at least a small area can be swept clean and a snapshot of the roofing material can be seen.
4. Lastly a good look from any window that has a view of the roof is also used. Sometimes angles, lighting, and shadows can reveal things not seen with the other methods.

In the end, we will inspect the roof to the best of our ability for you while staying safe.

Kyle