- Identify type, approximate thickness;
- Discolored sheathing;
- Leakage from bad penetration flashing;
- Leakage from damaged/failed roof-covering;
- Condensation (look for moisture source);
- Decayed, damaged or otherwise deteriorated
- H-Clips are NOT REQUIRED. They are an architect's call. Their purpose is to support the sheathing at midspan of rafter bays.
- 3/8-inch plywood was acceptable in the past some jurisdictions. It's presence as roof sheathing may not be desirable, but it’s usually not a defective condition. Check with your local building department before calling it a defect.
RADIANT BARRIER SHEATHING (Potential fire danger)
Radiant barrier sheathing consists of panels that have had thin foil bonded to the underside. A study by a forensic engineering firm, McDowell-Owens, suggests that this sheathing increases the potential for fire due to:
- Heat created at joints if the foil should become energized.
- Increased chance of lightning strikes.
- Whether to include this information in a report is a decision that must be made by individual inspectors.
- Radiant barrier sheathing will not void the warranty of most shingles.
- Read the reports here: