That’s a good point about catching stuff from the ground—binoculars have saved me a few sketchy climbs. I always tell folks to look for things like popped nails, missing shingles, or discoloration from below before even thinking about a ladder. But yeah, those vent boots and flashing spots are tricky. Out of curiosity, has anyone here tried using a drone for roof inspections? I’ve seen a few clients do it and it seems like a safer way to spot trouble, but I wonder how well it works for finding those small leaks.
Out of curiosity, has anyone here tried using a drone for roof inspections? I’ve seen a few clients do it and it seems like a safer way to spot trouble, but I wonder how well it works for finding those small leaks.
Drones are cool and all—definitely beats hanging off a ladder like a squirrel with bad judgment—but honestly, they’re not magic. Great for spotting missing shingles or big patches of moss, but those sneaky leaks around vent boots or flashing? Still tough to catch unless you’re right up close. I’ve had folks send me drone pics thinking they’d found the culprit, but sometimes it’s just a shadow or some bird crud. Still, if you hate heights (or value your ankles), drones are a solid first pass. Just don’t toss the binoculars yet.
I tried the drone thing after my last windstorm—figured it’d save me from hauling out the extension ladder. It’s handy for big stuff, but honestly, I still had to crawl up there to find a tiny leak by the chimney. Not a miracle fix, just another tool in the box.
It’s handy for big stuff, but honestly, I still had to crawl up there to find a tiny leak by the chimney. Not a miracle fix, just another tool in the box.
That’s exactly how I see it too. Drones are great for spotting obvious shingle damage or missing pieces after a storm, but those sneaky little leaks—especially around chimneys and vents—usually still need the old-school hands-on approach. Last spring, I used my drone to check after a hailstorm and it saved me from climbing up just to see some branches. But when I noticed a water stain inside, had to get up there myself to really find the source.
One thing I’ve found helpful: after using the drone, I mark any suspicious spots on a printed roof diagram. Then, when I’m actually up there, I know exactly where to look—saves a ton of time poking around. And yeah, it’s not a miracle fix, but anything that keeps me off the ladder a bit more is worth it.
You’re definitely right—regular checkups are key. Even if you gotta crawl around sometimes, catching things early is way cheaper than dealing with rot or mold down the line.
I get the appeal of drones, but honestly, I still think they’re kinda overrated for most homeowners. Unless you’ve got a really steep or huge roof, half the time it’s just as quick to grab a ladder and check yourself—especially if you know what you’re looking for. Plus, some of those “suspicious spots” end up being nothing once you’re up close. Maybe I’m just old school, but I trust my own eyes more than a camera feed... at least for now.
