The evaluation or inspection phase is crucial in identifying the current state of the roofing system and understanding the specific needs of the customer. This phase involves a comprehensive assessment of both the interior and exterior aspects of the roof.

Interior and Exterior Assessment of Roofing Systems

Interior Assessment:

• Signs of Leaking: Look for water stains on ceilings and walls, especially in the attic. Water marks or discoloration are indicators of leaks.
• Mold and Mildew: Presence of mold or mildew indicates moisture issues, often due to leaks or poor ventilation.
• Black Spots on Rafters: These spots can indicate mold growth or moisture damage.
• Pest Infestations: Check for signs of pests, which can exploit gaps and weaknesses in the roofing structure.
• Rusty Nail Heads: Rust indicates moisture, which can compromise the integrity of the roofing structure.
• Delaminated Plywood: Plywood that is peeling or separating indicates water damage.
• Cracked Structural Beams: Cracks in beams suggest significant structural issues.
• Chimney Decay: Look for crumbling mortar or loose bricks, which can indicate water penetration.
• Saturated Insulation: Insulation that is damp or waterlogged needs to be replaced.
• Soft and Vulnerable Underside of Wood Decking: Check for areas where the wood feels spongy or weak.

Exterior Assessment:

• Condition of Existing Roof, Gutters, and Ventilation: Examine the overall state of the roof, including the integrity of shingles, gutters, and ventilation systems.
• Leaking: Look for visible signs of leaks, such as water stains or damage around roof penetrations like chimneys and skylights.
• Granule Loss: Check shingles for significant granule loss, which indicates wear and aging.
• Blistering/Buckling Shingles: Look for shingles that are lifting or appear warped, which can result from poor installation or underlying issues.
• Hail Damage: Identify dents or cracks caused by hail.
• Severe Moss or Algae Build-Up: Moss and algae can deteriorate shingles and should be removed.
• Lifting Shingles: Shingles that are lifting or have loose edges need attention.
• Improper Installation Issues: Look for signs of poor installation, such as misaligned shingles or inadequate flashing.
• Spider Cracking: Fine cracks in shingles can lead to water infiltration.
• Poor Flashing Application: Inspect the flashing around roof penetrations for gaps or damage.

Identifying Common Roofing Issues

Common roofing issues that homeowners experience include:

• Leaks: Water penetration due to damaged shingles or flashing.
• Shingle Damage: Cracked, curled, or missing shingles.
• Granule Loss: Indicates the shingles are aging and losing their protective coating.
• Poor Installation: Misaligned or improperly secured shingles.
• Moss and Algae Growth: Can cause deterioration and affect roof longevity.
• Gutter Issues: Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to water damage.
• Ice Dam Problems: Ice dams can cause significant water damage and roof leaks.
• Rot and Decay: Moisture infiltration leading to rot in the decking or other structural components.
• Ventilation Problems: Poor ventilation can lead to moisture build-up and reduce the lifespan of the roof.
• Lifting Shingles: Shingles that are not properly adhered can lift and allow water to penetrate.
• Buckling/Blistering Shingles: Caused by moisture trapped beneath the shingles or improper installation.
• Spider Cracking: Fine cracks in the shingles can lead to leaks.
• Signs of Leaking Inside Attic Cavity: Water stains, mold, or mildew in the attic.
• Aging: General wear and tear over time that reduces the roof’s effectiveness.

Involving Prospects in the Inspection Process

Engaging prospects in the inspection process helps build trust and demonstrates transparency. Here are some effective techniques:

• Attic Inspection: Invite the prospect to inspect the attic with you. Show them any visible signs of leaks, mold, or structural damage.
• Exterior Walkaround: Walk around the exterior of the home with the prospect, pointing out any visible issues such as lifting shingles, granule loss, or gutter problems.
• Interactive Questions: Ask the prospect questions to understand their concerns and observations. For example, “Have you noticed any leaks or water stains inside your home?”
• Educational Approach: Explain what you are looking for and why certain issues are significant. This helps the prospect understand the importance of addressing these problems.
• Visual Documentation: Take photos of any issues you find and share them with the prospect, explaining the potential consequences if not addressed.

By involving prospects in the inspection process, you build credibility and ensure they understand the need for the proposed solutions, fostering a sense of urgency to address the identified issues​​​​ .