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Writer's pictureTony Biggar

Why Traditional Methods of Roof Inspection Are Severely Lacking

Updated: Oct 6


Let's explore why conventional roof inspection techniques are no longer sufficient and how drone technology is revolutionizing the industry.


Table of Contents


The Limitations of Traditional Roof Inspections

Traditional roof inspection methods typically involve a physical walkthrough of the roof by one or more inspectors. While this approach has been the standard for decades, it comes with significant drawbacks that can no longer be ignored in our modern, efficiency-driven world.


Safety Concerns with Conventional Methods

One of the most glaring issues with traditional roof inspections is the inherent safety risk. Inspectors must physically climb onto roofs, often at great heights and in potentially hazardous conditions. This is especially problematic in Sioux Falls and the surrounding upper Midwest region, where harsh weather conditions can make roof surfaces slippery and unstable.


"Falls from roofs account for one-third of all fall-related construction worker fatalities." - Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)."

This statistic underscores the very real dangers associated with traditional roof inspection methods. By relying on these outdated techniques, we're not only putting inspectors at risk but also opening businesses up to potential liability issues.



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Inefficiency and Time Constraints

Traditional roof inspections are notoriously time-consuming. Inspectors must meticulously cover every inch of the roof surface, often taking hours or even days to complete a thorough examination. This inefficiency can lead to significant disruptions in business operations, especially for large commercial properties.


In the fast-paced business environment of Sioux Falls and the upper Midwest, time is money. Every minute spent on a lengthy roof inspection is a minute lost in productivity.


Inaccuracy and Missed Issues

Despite the time invested, traditional inspection methods are prone to human error and oversight. Inspectors can easily miss small defects or developing issues, especially in hard-to-reach areas of the roof. This inaccuracy can lead to undetected problems that escalate into major, costly repairs down the line.


"Up to 40% of building-related problems are due to water intrusion." - Building Enclosure Magazine."

Many of these water intrusion issues could be caught early with more accurate inspection methods, saving businesses thousands in potential repair costs.


The Cost Factor

Traditional roof inspections often come with hefty price tags. The labor-intensive nature of the work, combined with the need for safety equipment and potential overtime hours, can make conventional inspections a significant expense for businesses.


In Sioux Falls and the surrounding states, where businesses are always looking for ways to optimize their operations and reduce costs, the expense of traditional roof inspections can be a significant burden.



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Environmental Impact

While perhaps not immediately obvious, traditional roof inspections can have a negative environmental impact. The use of lifts and other heavy equipment often required for these inspections contributes to carbon emissions. Additionally, the materials used in safety gear and inspection tools often end up in landfills after their useful life.


In an era where businesses in Sioux Falls and across the upper Midwest are increasingly focused on sustainability, this environmental cost cannot be overlooked.


How Drone Technology Addresses These Shortcomings

Drone technology offers a revolutionary solution to the limitations of traditional roof inspection methods. Here's how:


1. Enhanced Safety: Drones eliminate the need for inspectors to physically access the roof, dramatically reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.


2. Improved Efficiency: A drone can survey a large commercial roof in a fraction of the time it takes for a manual inspection, minimizing disruptions to business operations.


3. Greater Accuracy: High-resolution cameras and thermal imaging technology allow drones to capture detailed images and data that might be missed by the human eye.


4. Cost-Effective: While the initial investment in drone technology may be significant, the long-term cost savings in terms of time, labor, and reduced liability make it a smart financial choice.


5. Environmentally Friendly: Drones have a much smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional inspection methods, aligning with the growing focus on sustainability in Sioux Falls and beyond.





"Drone technology is not just changing the way we do roof inspections; it's revolutionizing the entire field of building maintenance and safety." - Drone Industry Insights."

The Future of Roof Inspections in Sioux Falls and Beyond

As businesses in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and the upper Midwest continue to embrace technological advancements, the shift towards drone-based roof inspections is inevitable. The superior safety, efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness of this method make it the clear choice for forward-thinking companies.


Moreover, as regulations around drone usage continue to evolve and become more accommodating, we can expect to see even more innovative applications of this technology in the field of building inspections.


And while traditional roof inspection methods have served us for many years, they are no longer sufficient to meet the demands of modern businesses. The limitations in safety, efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness make them an outdated choice in today's fast-paced, technology-driven world.


By embracing drone technology for roof inspections, businesses in Sioux Falls and the upper Midwest can ensure they're getting the most comprehensive, safe, and cost-effective roof assessments possible. It's time to leave the ladders behind and take to the skies for a better view of your commercial roof's health.



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