While buying a new home, you always need to cross check a variety of aspects from paperwork to landscaping and fencing. Have you ever considered cross checking the roofing system? If you are planning to buy a new home, it is always advisable to check the roofing thoroughly. A roof is a major investment and will have a large impact on the purchase price of the home, as well as the home’s overall property value.
The type of roofing material used will determine how much maintenance it will need and how long it will last. Materials range in cost and in the amount of care needed over the lifespan of the roof.
Before making a home purchase, the first thing you need to do is to check the roof. Standing out from a distance, you need to investigate a number of things.
Firstly, you need to check if the roof is mold free. Also, make sure the roof is absolutely flat without curly edges or bulges. Then, look out for spots that are worn out and see if any shingles are missing. Such types of deformities indicate that the roof is very old. Don’t hesitate to ask the homeowner what the lifespan of the roof is.
Always consider the upkeep and manageability of the rooftop’s maintenance. You need to check if there are a lot of overhanging trees nearby that may cause a build-up of debris in the gutters. Also, if you are living in a humid climate, you should be careful about the mildew growth which may occur. Lastly, will it be possible for you to do the small repairs by yourself, or will you need to hire a professional to do it?
Find out what residential roofing company installed the roof. Are they reputable and do they guarantee their work? Having a reputable contractor is a good indication that the work was done right and the roof will last for many years.
You will need to take a look at the roof from a distance to see if the roof looks flat, if there are any missing shingles or signs of wear and tear, or if there’s growth of mold, mildew, or curled edges. All of these will indicate if the home has an older roof. You must ask the previous owner of the house about the age of the roof and whether there are any existing warranties on it. If the roof is not made out of asphalt but some other material, you’ll need to do an annual inspection.
The roof of your house is something which directly affects its aesthetic appeal. Thus, you need to take a call on whether you will be ready to spend more money in getting a roof that lasts a lifetime, or you want a roof made from less costly material that needs to be changed every 10 years. If you are unsure, you should consult a roofing expert on this.
Checking for ventilation issues is a must when you are considering buying a house. This is because if proper ventilation is not there, it might result in roof warping. Proper ventilation will not only help in reducing energy costs, but also result in a reduction in the amount of moisture present in the house.
Inspect the drainage system yourself and check for any large amounts of asphalt shingle grains, as it is a sign of a roof problem.
Roof leaks, if left unattended, can wreak havoc to your entire house by damaging your furniture and floors and also ruin the walls of your home. It is a good idea to look for leaks from the exterior and interior of the home prior to going forward with the purchase of the home.
For complete satisfaction, call a professional roofing contractor to inspect the existing roof and suggest any repairs, if needed.
Also Read: 6 Roofing Materials: Determine the Best Choice for Your Home
