1. Identify type, approximate thickness;
  2. Discolored sheathing;
  3. Leakage from bad penetration flashing;
  4. Leakage from damaged/failed roof-covering;
  5. Condensation (look for moisture source);
  6. Decayed, damaged or otherwise deteriorated
  7. H-Clips are NOT REQUIRED. They are an architect's call. Their purpose is to support the sheathing at midspan of rafter bays.
  8. 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:

  1. Heat created at joints if the foil should become energized.
  2. 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:
  1. Radiant barrier sheathing
  2. Radiant Barrier sheathing 2