Purchasing a new home can be a stressful event.
There’s so much so keep track of and always something to check on.
But amidst the stress of the home buying process, don’t forget to take a look at the roof.
That’s right, the roof.
Often glossed over quickly for more exciting interior things like flooring and appliances, the roof is never something to be ignored, especially during the home inspection process.
Because a bad roof – or even an old one – could end up costing you thousands of dollars in the very near future.
So…what should you look for?
Here are 5 things to look for in a roof when buying a home.
Gutters and a Good Drainage System
Take a look around the house and check out the gutters. First – does the house even have gutters? If so, are they clogged with debris? If so, there could be some deeper issues going on. Take a look for pieces of shingles that may have made their way into the gutters as well, as this could indicate further roof damage. Additionally, check the overall drainage system, including pipes and downspouts. Make sure water is draining far enough away from the house to not cause water damage.
Leaks and Signs of Water Damage
A leaky roof can be extremely damaging on both the home and your pocketbook as repairing the damage can get quite costly. Be sure to inspect the walls and ceiling of the home for any signs of water damage, and also check the roof seams, wall flashings, and chimney(s). You can also ask the seller if they’ve experienced any recent leaks. If you suspect there might be a leak, be sure to contact a professional roofing contractor for an inspection.
Obvious Signs of Wear and Tear
Stand on the curb or in the backyard of the home and look up at the roof. What do you see? Loose or missing shingles? Areas that curls up or buckle? Upon closer inspection, can you see any signs of mold or mildew? If so, it’s possible that the roof is nearing the end of its useable life. If you’re not sure, check with the current homeowners to see when the roof was last replaced or if any recent storms might have caused significant damage to the roof.
Age of the Roof – When Was It Last Replaced?
Speaking of the roof’s useable life, most roofs need to be replaced every 20-25 years. If the home you are viewing is relatively new, chances are good that the roof is fine and won’t need replacing anytime soon. But, if the home is slightly older, it’s definitely worth checking into the actual age of the roof. Again, Ask the current homeowners to verify when the roof was last replaced. If it’s due to be replaced soon, be sure to factor that into the cost of repairs needed for the home.
Proper Ventilation System in the Home
It may sound unrelated and unimportant, but having a properly working ventilation system in the home can greatly improve the quality and life of the roof. Why? A properly working ventilation system will allow air and sunlight to easily flow through the area, keeping moisture levels low. An older, poor-functioning ventilation system can lead to increased moisture, mold, and mildew, which will eventually negatively affect the roof.
In Conclusion
The roof is an extremely important part of any home, and definitely not something that should be overlooked in a home inspection. If you have any questions about the quality of your roof, don’t hesitate to give us a call – we would love to help!
Give us a call at 817-793-7010 for our Fort Worth office, 432-214-2466 for our Odessa office, or simply fill out our contact form here – we are looking forward to hearing from you!
