Roof Inspections

Roof Inspections | Roofing | Strawberry Plains

From summer sun that bakes shingles brittle to sudden squalls sweeping in from the Holston River, Strawberry Plains weather can turn a small roofing issue into a costly emergency overnight. HEP’s certified inspectors know every local quirk, and they bring drones, moisture meters, and decades of hands-on experience to spot trouble where others just see shingles. We look at vents, flashing, decking, and attic airflow—then translate our findings into plain English, complete with clear photos and a priority list so you can decide what happens next.

Because HEP is a full-service roofing team, you get more than a checklist; you get real solutions. If your roof is healthy, we’ll shake your hand and be on our way. If it needs work, we can handle everything from minor repairs to full replacements, coordinate with your insurance adjuster, and back the job with industry-leading warranties. No scare tactics, no surprise fees—just the “Happy, Enthusiastic, Professional” service your Strawberry Plains neighbors have trusted for years.

What our customers say

Wil was very professional and gave helpful advice on what to do about our roof

Jessica C.

Answered all my questions and was able to explain and point out other problems that weren’t up to code on my house. Reasonably price with all the parts that need fixing.

Bradley M.

Travis came out this afternoon and gave me a quote on a new roof and financing options. He was very informative and knowledgeable. Excellent customer service. I reccommend for fast and friendly service. Go VOLS!!

Scott T.

If I can do a 10 star post I would everything was more than satisfactory and a lot of good information about Roofing from Christian Jordan and Connor.

Nichole P.

Technician Matt showed up to inspect the area of the roof needing repaired. He was nice and very knowledgeable. Great experience

Markus B.

Will is a great salesman he went through all the details on what needs to be done on my roof and I'm looking forward to doing business with him

George M.

We called Hep for a leaking roof. They were quick to respond and when they came out took photos to show us what needed to be done. The mgr. who had come out to evaluate the job came back to ensure everything he told us was to be done would be done. He checked out the job and we felt secure knowing everything was checked on to have been done correctly and what wasn't was redone right. Would definately reccommend Hep for roof work.

Rosemary A.

Will was great, coming out in the rain and still being able to brave the weather to find the issue with the roof. His expertise was greatly appreciated

Breanna B.

UPDATING THIS REVIEW** Will turned out to be even better than I originally noted. He returned to inform me that my new roof was put down without removing any of the boards below it -- so turned out my problem wasn't related to the roofing job, and in that case, it was going to need to be something I resolved. Since my roof is under warranty, nobody else could fix the problem except for HEP without voiding my warranty. I'm a working, single mom and this year has been so expensive due to home repairs and such. Financially, it's a struggle. Due to being overwhelmed by the news of having yet ANOTHER repair I need to come out of pocket for -- knowing that I really don't have much money to fork out in one sitting -- I honestly got a little emotional. Will proceeded to reach out to get a price for me, and as I expected, the price was more than I had. I inquired about adding the balance to my current finance agreement, but since it had been over 60 days -- that wasn't possible. So I told Will I wouldn't be able to do it. I expected him to basically say okay & leave, but he persisted trying to find an option that was going to work for me. He reached out to another guy (a boss or management of some type, I think), and on my behalf, pleaded for an option. They were able to work something out for me & it really meant a lot to have him persist like that. I definitely appreciate Will (and the management individual that has dealt with me at my worst multiple times now). Definitely have a better overall view of HEP as a whole now. I didn't feel like I was being taken advantage of. I didn't feel like I was being sold something because I didn't know any better. It felt like a real human experience, and I definitely am appreciative!

Amber H.

My air conditioner on my house is 12 years old so a yearly inspection is a must. thanks to mr cole for coming out and making sure my unit was still ok .. he did a great job inspecting and letting me know where i was standing with everything. it is hard to find a company also who is honest ,,does not rip you off and of course does the job the way it should be--RIGHT THE FIRST TIME. thanks so much guys,, you make a difference. i apologize - i cant get the option how to add another review so ill have to continue on this one ,, ,,,, for Mr Travis Colston.. you are a godsend. I am so confident moving forward with putting a new roof on my home. I cannot get over the fact how you guys give more than 100 percent making sure the work is done RIGHT as i said in the earlier paragraph. Your Roof Inspection was outstanding and professional ,, i have never felt better when faced with such a huge responsibility homeowners have -which one thing ,, eventually, is replacing your roof..... HEP has been FANTASTIC with everything else I needed done and i know they will be with this as well... THANK YOU SO MUCH

Andy J.

Comprehensive Roof Inspections in Strawberry Plains by HEP

Strawberry Plains, Tennessee, experiences a unique blend of humid summers, brisk winters, and frequent storm activity that can put intense stress on roofing systems. HEP provides specialized roof inspections tailored to the local micro-climate, ensuring that every shingle, seam, and structural element is evaluated with precision. By combining deep regional knowledge with advanced diagnostic technology, HEP helps property owners maintain roof integrity, extend service life, and prevent costly damage.

Why Detailed Roof Inspections Matter in Strawberry Plains

A roof is more than a weather barrier; it is an investment that safeguards interior spaces, structural components, and personal belongings. The combination of heavy rainfalls, strong winds, and temperature swings typical of Strawberry Plains introduces specific vulnerabilities that require professional attention.

High humidity fosters hidden moisture intrusion
Sudden temperature shifts accelerate material expansion and contraction
Frequent thunderstorms and hail events create sudden impact damage
Seasonal leaf buildup can block drainage paths and cause standing water

Proactive inspections identify these regional threats early, supporting timely maintenance and improved roof performance.

Key Elements of HEP’s Roof Inspection Protocol

HEP follows a comprehensive checklist that examines every aspect of a roofing system from top to bottom. The process is both methodical and adaptive, allowing inspectors to adjust focus areas based on roof age, material, and previous repair history.

Exterior Surface Examination

Inspectors begin with a top-side visual assessment, searching for surface anomalies that signal deeper issues.

Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
Loose or corroded metal panels
Blistering or punctures on flat membrane roofs
Granule loss on asphalt compositions
Moss, algae, or fungal growth patterns indicating trapped moisture

Structural Component Review

Beyond the visible surface, inspectors evaluate supporting structures that provide critical load-bearing capacity.

Rafter alignment and spacing irregularities
Decking softness indicating rot or mold
Sagging ridgelines suggesting compromised trusses
Fastener integrity and corrosion around flashing points
Chimney and skylight frame stability

Flashing and Sealant Inspection

Flashing materials form the water-tight bridge between a roof and adjoining components. Deficiencies here often lead to interior leaks.

Torn, loosened, or missing step flashing around walls
Damaged drip edges at eaves
Dried or cracked sealant along vent stacks
Misaligned valley flashing allowing water bypass

Drainage Path Assessment

Proper water flow is vital to prevent pooling and structural decay.

Gutter pitch verification and blockage checks
Downspout alignment with ground channels
Scupper and drain status on flat roofs
Evidence of fascia staining or soffit deterioration

Ventilation and Insulation Analysis

Balanced airflow maintains temperature equilibrium, reducing condensation and ice dam risk.

Intake vent coverage along soffits
Exhaust vent capacity near ridges
Adequate attic insulation depth and distribution
Signs of moisture on rafters or attic sheathing

Specialized Inspection Techniques Utilized by HEP

HEP equips inspectors with advanced tools to uncover hidden issues without unnecessary demolition.

Infrared Thermography

Thermal imaging cameras reveal temperature anomalies that correspond to water intrusion, insulation gaps, or energy loss. Hot and cold mapping pinpoints trouble zones beneath shingles and within attic cavities.

Moisture Meter Readings

Handheld probes measure wood and insulation moisture content. Elevated readings confirm suspected leaks and guide targeted repairs.

Drone Reconnaissance

For steep or fragile roofs, unmanned aerial systems capture high-resolution images from multiple angles, expanding visual coverage while reducing foot traffic on delicate surfaces.

Endoscopic Camera Scopes

Miniature cameras insert through ridge vent openings or small access points to inspect internal voids, flashing cavities, and hidden fastener lines.

Common Roofing Materials Inspected by HEP in Strawberry Plains

The area’s residential and light commercial buildings feature a diverse mix of roofing systems. HEP technicians are trained to evaluate each type’s unique characteristics.

Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Three-tab, architectural, and premium designer grades
Vulnerable to granule loss, wind uplift, and blistering
Require granular integrity checks and uplift resistance testing

Metal Roofs

Standing seam, corrugated panels, and stamped metal shingles
Susceptible to expansion-contraction fastener fatigue
Need seam sealant condition reviews and rust detection

EPDM and TPO Membranes

Popular on low-slope and flat commercial structures
Potential punctures from foot traffic and HVAC units
Require seam adhesive adhesion tests and ponding water evaluation

Cedar Shakes

Offer natural beauty but sensitive to humidity-driven decay
Inspections focus on split, curled, or moss-laden shakes
Evaluate underlayment condition and proper ventilation support

Slate and Tile

High durability yet heavy load on supporting structures
Checks include cracked tiles, slipped pieces, and mortar bed status
Structural load capacity verification is essential

Seasonal Roof Stressors Unique to Strawberry Plains

Understanding localized climatic challenges enhances inspection effectiveness.

Spring Storm Activity

Early-season thunderstorms can drop large hailstones and deliver high wind gusts. Inspectors look for:

Impact fractures on shingles or metal dimpling
Displaced ridge caps and vent covers
Gutter dents restricting water flow

Intense Summer Sun

UV radiation and heat accelerate chemical degradation of asphalt and sealants.

Brittleness in shingles and membrane surfaces
Oxidized caulking around penetrations
Early onset of color fading and thermal cracking

Autumn Debris Accumulation

Surrounding hardwood forests release substantial leaf litter.

Gutters filled with organic matter causing overflow
Damp leaves trapped on low-slope roofs fostering decay
Downspout blockages leading to fascia rot

Winter Freezing and Ice Dams

Temperature drops, occasional snow, and ice formation challenge roof performance.

Ice dam ridges along eaves lifting shingles
Freeze-thaw cycles widening existing cracks
Snow load stressing structural members

Detailed Step-by-Step Workflow of an HEP Roof Inspection

Pre-inspection briefing to gather roof history and owner observations
Safety setup with harness points and ladder stabilization
Perimeter walk-around to document exterior wall and foundation splash marks
Drone or ladder ascent for top-side imaging
Manual surface walkthrough, noting breaching points
Component-level tests: fastener torque checks, membrane adhesion pulls
Penetration evaluation: chimneys, vents, skylights, solar mounts
Flashing and sealing integrity sampling
Drainage system flush testing
Attic entry for insulation depth measurements and vapor barrier inspection
Thermal imaging sweeps across interior ceiling planes
Moisture meter sampling on suspect decking areas
Photo documentation with geo-tagged timestamp records
Data consolidation and code compliance cross-checking
Report generation with prioritized action items and recommended maintenance timeline

Safety Protocols Observed by HEP Inspectors

HEP maintains strict adherence to OSHA guidelines and internal standards to protect both personnel and property.

Fall-arrest harnesses rated above expected load
Non-marring roof boots to prevent granular displacement
Ladder tie-offs and stabilizers for secure access
Weather condition monitoring, postponing work during lightning or high winds
Debris control measures to keep landscaping undisturbed

Certifications and Training Backing HEP’s Roofing Expertise

Continuous education ensures that inspectors remain current with evolving industry practices.

Manufacturer certification programs for shingle, metal, and membrane systems
National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) technical coursework
Building code updates specific to Jefferson County and Tennessee state guidelines
Annual skills assessments on diagnostic technology

Typical Issues Identified During Strawberry Plains Roof Inspections

Nail-pop protrusions compromising shingle seal strips
Flashing laps with insufficient overlap causing capillary leaks
Ridge vent clogging from wind-blown debris
Moss rooting into shingle layers and degrading fiberglass mats
Hidden decking delamination beneath aged roll roofing

Early detection of these defects significantly reduces repair scope and prevents collateral damage such as interior drywall staining or attic mold colonies.

Preventive Maintenance Insights Derived From Inspection Data

Inspection findings inform a strategic maintenance plan designed to optimize service life.

Recommended Routine Actions

Semi-annual gutter cleanouts, particularly after heavy leaf drop
Reapplication of UV-resistant sealant on south-facing flashings every three years
Selective shingle replacements in high-traffic footpath areas (chimney sweeps, satellite dishes)
Periodic ridge vent screen assessments to keep wildlife out

Long-Term Asset Management

Budgetary planning for eventual reroof based on material age curves
Documented inspection reports supporting insurance claims after storms
Energy audits linked to ventilation efficiency and insulation performance

The Added Value of Professional Roof Inspections for Homeowners

An expert inspection offers tangible and intangible benefits that extend well beyond leak prevention.

Enhanced property appraisal due to documented roof health
Peace of mind during severe weather events
Improved energy efficiency translating into lower utility bills
Stronger bargaining position during real estate transactions

Commercial Property Considerations

Businesses in Strawberry Plains rely on uninterrupted operations. A roofing interruption can quickly escalate into operational downtime and revenue loss.

Key Evaluation Points for Flat or Low-Slope Commercial Roofs

Proper ballast weight distribution on EPDM systems
HVAC curb flashing alignment with roof membrane
Parapet cap condition to minimize wind-driven rain entry
Seal integrity around skylights used for warehouse lighting

Maintenance Scheduling for Minimal Disruption

Inspections outside peak business hours
Coordination with facility management for roof access
Prioritized repair roadmaps to address critical vulnerabilities first

Signs That Indicate It’s Time to Schedule an Inspection

While periodic inspections are vital, certain observable symptoms demand immediate professional evaluation.

Interior ceiling discoloration or peeling paint
Unexplained spike in cooling or heating costs
Visible sagging in roofline when viewed from the street
Persistent mildew odor emanating from attic spaces
Audible dripping sounds during or after rainfall

Swift action at the first sign of trouble prevents compounding damage and mitigates safety hazards.

The Role of Attic and Ventilation Checks

A roof’s health is intimately connected to attic conditions. Poor ventilation traps heat and moisture, undermining shingle performance and fostering biological growth.