With so many choices, purchasing a home may be a daunting task, and you don’t want to take it lightly. Buying a home is exciting, but how can you know if it will last over time? Roofs are one of the most expensive parts of a home and the most critical because they keep your home secure and safe. If you want to make sure your roof lasts, there are a few things you should look for when inspecting it.
The information below will help you understand whether or not the roof on a new home you’re purchasing is in good shape and the peace of mind you need when putting in an offer.
How to Inspect a Roof
Before buying a house, you need to inspect the roof for any damages. There are a few different techniques to inspect the roof for problems. First, you may be able to observe any roof damage from the ground, such as missing roof shingles or tiles. You might also employ an expert to gain a complete picture of the roof’s condition.
Furthermore, the present homeowner may have made a roof report available to any potential home buyer. If they have done so, request to see it and read it thoroughly for any problems that need repair soon to keep the house safe and secure.
1. Check the Age of the Roof
The age of the roof is an excellent indication of the roof’s condition. If you find out that the home has an older roof (15+ years old), it will likely have more problems than if it was a newer roof. So, it is essential to consider this when you start looking at properties and deciding which one is right for you.
If you determine that the old home roof may need replacement, then purchasing that house may not be in your best interest because you won’t get as much value.
2. Look for Missing or Broken Shingles
Another factor to check is missing tiles or shingles. A roof with damaged shingles or broken or missing tile will leak and may cause terrible water damage to your home.
It will not be a severe problem if you spot missing or broken shingles or tiles early enough. You can request to replace any damaged shingles or tile before deciding that you want to purchase the house. When having a roof redone, most roofers advise homeowners to keep an additional box of shingles or a dozen roof tiles on hand. So if you are in luck, the current homeowners might have extra replacement shingles ready for you.
3. Inspect for Good Ventilation System
The roof of a home is a big part of the overall livability. The roof is made to protect your home from rain, extreme heat, and wind. And because it’s exposed to all four seasons, it requires maintenance.
To avoid the risk of leaks and other problems with the roof, make sure it has a proper ventilation system. Roof vents allow air to flow through without letting water seep in. In addition, a strong ventilation system will prolong the life of your roof so that you can save money on repairs later on down the line!
4. Look for any Breaks or Leaks
Don’t forget to check thoroughly for any leaks or breaks in the roof. This is not something you want to deal with right after buying your new, shiny house, especially when the windy seasons arrive.
Leakage from rain is prevalent in valleys, plumbing vents, and chimneys. Unfortunately, roof leaks can sometimes be hard to find without professional help.
A leaky roof is hazardous to your home’s interior, including floors, furniture, and the foundation. It can be a complete disaster! It’s better to avoid it than to cope with it.
Greatway Roofing has over 20 years of experience as the leading Ventura County, Santa Clarita Valley, and the San Fernando Valley roofing company. We offer free, comprehensive estimates, and our workmanship is fully guaranteed. If you’d like help inspecting your roof, talk to one of our friendly team members today at (805) 523-2550.