Buying a home can be exciting but stressful. There are many things to look for and even more questions to ask. Before deciding, you’ll want to know what you’re getting into, so it’s essential to ask about the roof. Inquiring about the roof’s age and checking into the ventilation and gutter systems are some things to check before purchasing a home.
House hunting doesn’t have to be a headache if you know what to look for. Keep reading for a list of things you should look for in a roof when buying a home.
Try To Find Out The Age of The Roof
A home is a major investment, and the roof is integral to that investment. If a roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, you’ll know it. Worn spots, missing shingles, and mold are key indicators that the roof needs repair or replacement. You can determine the roof’s actual age by requesting proof of installation from the seller or real estate agent. If it’s nearing 15 to 20 years of age, depending on the geographic location, you’ll want to factor in the replacement cost and consider that when placing your offer on the house.
Roofs with architectural shingles are more durable and will last longer under difficult weather conditions. Newer metal roofs can last several decades and may not require you to replace the roof at all. This higher-quality roof will increase your home’s value, so ensure all warranties are transferable.
Check For Excessive Wear
Roofs endure the worst of the elements between heavy storms and icy weather. While a bit of wear and tear is expected, you’ll want to ensure there isn’t excessive wear. Before you climb onto the roof and injure yourself, you can look for a few things from the ground or a ladder.
Inspect the shingles – are they curling, cracking, peeling, or shrinking? If so, they are too worn to protect your home adequately. Bald spots are also problematic, as they allow UV light to damage the asphalt. Call a professional for a second opinion and an estimate on potential repairs if you’re considering purchasing the home.
Check The Roof Ventilation
Any roof should have a well-working ventilation system for optimal performance. When a roof is not correctly ventilated, the air gets trapped in the attic, causing condensation. This creates an atmosphere for mold to grow, which can lead to damage in the rafters and repair bills for you. Be prepared to pay more for utility costs as well since it will cost more to regulate the temperature in the home.
During the home inspection, the inspector should ensure proper airflow in and out of the attic, but you can observe the roof and notice if any vents are blocked. Cracked shingles are also a giveaway that something is wrong with the ventilation system.
Check the Gutters and Downspouts
Check the gutter system for cracked rust spots or worn rubber seals around the vent pipes, including the downspouts. When the gutter system is clogged or cracked, it won’t function properly, and water will not drain from the roof, which can result in eventual leaks and water damage. Make sure the gutters are clear of debris as well.
If you notice small grains, those are asphalt shingle grains, and they help shield the shingles from the sun’s rays. It’s normal for them to fall off, but you don’t want them taking up space in the gutters.
Check For Mold
As we mentioned earlier, a poor ventilation system and excessive water leakage can cause mold to develop. Not only is mold harmful to your home, but it also poses health risks and releases a terrible odor. Stains or spots on the roof, accompanied by a musty smell in the attic, are clear signs that mold is present.
It’s easy to address the mold and clean it up, but most people cannot find the source of the mold, and it returns later. So, it’s important to call a professional if you notice gaps in the roof where water can enter.
Try To Find Early Signs of a Roof Leak
A roof leak is not something you’ll want to find before purchasing the house. Not only will it ruin moving day for you, but it will also ruin your new home’s structure and flooring.
Existing water damage can be challenging to detect, so if the roof appears to have excessive wear, missing shingles, or the presence of mold, it is a good idea to hire a professional before investigating. They will get on the roof, look at damaged areas, and check out the seepage system, including the gutters, downspouts, and drainage pipes. Tell them if you’ve noticed any water stains on the ceilings throughout the home, as this is also a possible sign of a leak.
Contact Us Today
There are many things to look for when buying a home, and checking on the status of a house’s roof is one of the most important. You’ll need a home inspector to investigate the ventilation system, and you’ll want to ensure the roof shows no indications of excessive wear or mold. If you end up purchasing a home with a roof needing repairs, you’ll want to address any water damage as quickly as possible to prevent further damage to your home.
Legacy Restoration combines highly trained staff and handpicked products to ensure long-term value for your home improvement. Our trained roofers and remodelers deliver five-star roofing renovations, so you won’t have to worry about damage to your roof.
Fill out the form below for a free inspection today!