Structural Red Flags & Damage

ROOF SAGGING

Roof sagging and buckling shingles can often have a similar appearance. It is also sometimes possible for seams in roof sheathing to sometimes give the appearance of "perforations" or lines on the roof. What we're really looking for is clear bowing where you can clearly see structural members, more than a faint line. Also make sure to give some attention to the ridge. There should be no bowing at the ridge.

Quick summary of what we're looking for:

• Sagging roof sheathing between rafters

• Sagging/bowing ridge board

So what is the difference in protocol between a sagging ridge board vs. sagging sheathing between rafters?

Sagging at the ridge will indicate a structural issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you see a sagging ridge board, this will be an automatic PSR

When you see sagging between rafters, this will result in a reroof to have the sheathing and the roof replaced; however, you should give extra care to the attic photos.

Surveyors need to be sure to document all areas in the attic where sagging can be seen on the roof to check for signs of rot and water damage that could also be affecting the structural members.

In this example, the rafters appear to be in good condition, so only a reroof will be needed to address the damaged and sagging roof sheathing.

In this example, however,  the rafters appear to have severe mold and water damage which could indicate an ongoing leak which can be detrimental to the health of the structure. If you see this in addition to sagging sheathing, you need to submit for PSR.

Site Survey:

• Document any smoke or fire damage and clearly indicate where they are located.

• Complete a poke hole test to see how deep the char damage is.

Design & Engineering: 

• Try to locate modules away from the fire damage

• If unavoidable, send for PSR.

ACCEPTABLE MINIMAL DAMAGE

If you see this, move forward with the project:

• Mild Mold