Drone Inspections
Drone Inspections | Roof Replacement | Roofing | Strawberry Plains
When wind, hail, and time take their toll on rooftops in Strawberry Plains, HEP flies in with cutting-edge drone technology that sees every shingle in razor-sharp detail. Our FAA-certified pilots capture high-resolution imagery and thermal data, allowing our roofing experts to spot hidden leaks, storm damage, and structural weaknesses without ever stepping on your home. The result is a faster, safer, and more accurate assessment that empowers you with transparent reports, crisp photos, and a clear action plan.
If those findings show it’s time for roof replacement, you can count on HEP’s licensed crews to install a durable, energy-efficient system backed by industry-leading warranties. From the first flight to the final nail, we handle permits, materials, cleanup, and constant communication—so all you see is a beautiful new roof and the peace of mind that comes with it. Reach out today, and let our drones do the climbing while you enjoy a seamless roofing experience.
FAQs
Why should I choose a drone inspection for my roof in Strawberry Plains instead of a traditional walk-on inspection?
Drone technology lets us capture ultra-high-resolution photos, 4K video, and even thermal images of every slope, valley, and penetration without anyone ever stepping on your shingles. That means no risk of foot-traffic damage, no ladders against gutters, and no safety hazards for inspectors. Because the drone can fly just inches above the surface, it spots hail bruising, lifted shingles, and fine granule loss that are easy to miss from the ground. The detailed imagery also helps us produce accurate measurements and material take-offs, which keep your roof-replacement quote precise and reduce waste.
Are drone roof inspections legal and safe in Strawberry Plains?
Yes. Our pilots are fully licensed under the FAA’s Part 107 Small UAS Rule and carry both aviation and general liability insurance. We follow FAA altitude, daylight, and airspace rules, maintain visual line of sight at all times, and use geofencing software to avoid restricted areas near the Knoxville Downtown Island and McGhee Tyson Class C airspace. During the flight we cordon off a safety perimeter around your property, and all data is captured with encrypted, password-protected equipment to protect your privacy.
What kinds of problems can a drone detect that might signal I need a roof replacement?
Besides obvious missing shingles, the drone’s high-zoom optics and optional infrared camera can reveal: • Hail strikes that have loosened granules • Wind‐lifted tabs that have broken their seal • Micro-cracks in shingles around vents and chimneys • Soft spots or trapped moisture in the decking (thermal imaging highlights heat anomalies) • Rusted or punctured flashing • Sagging or uneven areas that indicate structural issues. Identifying these early lets us recommend repair versus full replacement and gather the photographic proof your insurance adjuster requires.
How much does a drone inspection cost and will the fee be applied to my roof replacement?
A stand-alone residential drone inspection in Strawberry Plains typically ranges from $175 to $275 depending on roof size and whether thermal imaging is requested. If you decide to move forward with a full replacement through our company within 90 days, we credit 100% of that inspection fee toward your new roof. The digital report—complete with annotated photos, measurements, and a condition grade—is formatted to meet the documentation standards of all major insurers, helping streamline any storm-damage claim.
What is the step-by-step process on inspection day and how long will it take?
1. We confirm weather and FAA airspace the morning of the visit. 2. On arrival, the pilot sets up safety cones and performs a quick pre-flight checklist. 3. The main flight lasts about 10–15 minutes for an average 2,500-sq-ft roof, capturing imagery from multiple altitudes and angles. 4. If thermal scanning is included, a second 5-minute pass is flown. 5. Data is uploaded to our secure server and analyzed with AI-assisted software. 6. Within 24 hours you receive a link to a cloud-based report, 3D model, and repair/replacement recommendations. The entire on-site visit usually wraps up in under 30 minutes.
If the drone finds only minor damage, will I still need a full roof replacement?
Not necessarily. One of the advantages of drone data is its precision: we can isolate exactly which slopes or sections are compromised. In many cases, targeted repairs, ridge cap replacement, or a protective roof coating can extend the life of your existing system. We compare repair costs, projected lifespan, and energy-efficiency gains against the investment in a complete reroof. If structural decking is sound and shingle damage is localized, we will recommend repair; if multiple layers are failing or widespread moisture is detected, a full replacement is the safest, most cost-effective long-term solution. Either way, you’ll have clear, photo-documented evidence to help you decide.