Inspection, Repair, and Code Compliance
Inspection and repair questions test whether you can tell a defect from normal wear, document it, and bring the roof into code compliance. The domain covers inspection sequence, product approval, repair methods, and warranty records.
Inspection rules
- Inspect the deck and underlayment before covering; then check alignment, exposure, fastener embedment, interlock, flashings, sealant, ventilation, and edge metal at completion.
- Compare the installed assembly to the approved plans, the manufacturer's manual, and the code. Product approval numbers, fire classification, impact and wind ratings should match the submittal.
- Document with photos, batch or lot numbers, fastener type, and weather conditions. Many warranties require notification before repair.
- After a storm, look for creased shingles, lifted or disengaged edges, backed-out fasteners, granule loss, and wall or valley damage.
Repairs
- Replace a damaged shingle by disengaging the upslope course, cutting the fasteners, and sliding in a matching unit. Do not face-nail a replacement.
- Use the manufacturer's touch-up paint and approved sealant. Asphalt cement is not a metal-roof repair material.
- Match profile, finish, and dye lot; a visible mismatch is a callback even if the repair is watertight.
Worked example
A six-year-old stone-coated roof shows granules in the gutters and several exposed fastener heads. Granule loss at valleys and traffic areas can be normal; exposed heads suggest overdriving or back-out. The correct response is to compare with the finish warranty, replace back-out fasteners with the specified length and washer, seal per the manual, and document the finding. Do not assume the whole roof is defective.
Traps
Calling granule loss a manufacturing defect without a baseline; repairing with a different profile; covering ventilation openings; skipping the ice barrier during a repair; not documenting code compliance.