
In every industry, new technologies are often met with skepticism. Roofing is no exception. Over the years, we've seen advancements that have changed the way we work, even if they were initially dismissed as unnecessary or overcomplicated. Today, we find ourselves at another such crossroads with drone inspections—a tool that some might quickly label as a "gimmick." But, as history shows us, what starts as skepticism can often lead to industry-wide adoption and significant improvement.
Think back to a time when satellite imagery first came onto the scene. There were roofers who couldn’t imagine measuring a roof without physically climbing up there with a tape measure. Yet, today, most of us rely on satellite data to get accurate measurements without ever leaving the ground. It’s become a standard part of our toolkit.
Years ago, many seasoned professionals preferred the reliability of a hammer and nails, skeptical that a nail gun could match their precision or durability. Fast forward to today, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a roofer who doesn’t use a nail gun. It’s now the industry standard, enhancing both speed and consistency.
So where do drone inspections fit into this picture? Like satellite imagery and roofing nailers, drones represent the next step forward in roofing technology. They offer a unique vantage point, allowing us to see areas of the roof that might be difficult or dangerous to access otherwise. This isn't about replacing traditional methods but enhancing them—using drones to ensure we don't miss a single detail during our inspections.

The idea that drone inspections are merely a marketing ploy is understandable but misplaced. It’s easy to see why some might be skeptical; after all, you don’t see many roofing companies using drones. The reason? Operating a drone isn’t as simple as it looks, especially when you leave the ground and enter federal airspace. According to the FAA, if you’re using a drone for commercial purposes—whether that’s advertising, inspections, or taking photos—you need a Part 107 drone license. This requirement means that not every roofing company can or will invest in keeping a licensed drone pilot on staff.Â
At Crown Roofing, we see the value in this technology and have committed to having a licensed drone pilot on our team. This ensures that our drone inspections are not only safe and compliant with federal regulations but also provide the high level of detail and accuracy our clients deserve.
Using drones brings several benefits to the table. For one, safety is greatly enhanced—no need to climb onto potentially hazardous roofs just to get a closer look. Accuracy is another significant advantage. Drones can capture high-resolution images and videos, offering detailed insights into areas that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Moreover, the efficiency of drone inspections allows us to provide our clients with quick yet thorough assessments, complete with visuals that clearly show any areas of concern. These benefits are not about cutting corners but about leveraging technology to deliver even better results.

The roofing industry has always evolved, with each new technology offering ways to improve the quality and efficiency of our work. Drone inspections are no different. By embracing these advancements, we’re not abandoning the traditional skills that define our craft; we’re enhancing them, ensuring that we provide the best possible service to our clients.
So, the next time you hear someone dismiss drone inspections as a gimmick, remember the skepticism that once surrounded satellite imagery and nail guns.
Technology has a way of proving its worth in time, and we believe drones will do the same for roofing.
Ready for a free inspection of your roof? Contact Josh to get the process started.
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