Buying a new home? The process is long, stressful, and filled with pitfalls. How do you know if you are getting a good deal? Can you predict what may go wrong with the home in the near future? How can you tell if a part of the home needs work? While there’s much to consider throughout the buying process, one particular thing prospective homeowners forget to put extra thought into is the roof. Why is a home’s roof so important? A roof not only protects everything underneath it, roofing replacement is also one of the more expensive exterior projects to undertake.
If you are buying a new home, here is what you should be looking for when it comes to roofing.
How Old is the Roof?
The realtor should have a good idea when the roof was replaced last. If they don’t, ask them directly how old it is. If, for some reason, they cannot find out from the seller when the roof was replaced, you can check with the local city’s government. Their website should have an area where you can put in any home address to see when permits were pulled for a particular job. That will let you know when the roof was last replaced.
How Old is Too Old?
That depends on the materials, weather, and many other things. Metal roofing will last much longer than a roof made of asphalt shingles. For more details on how long a roof should last, read this quick guide.
Keep in mind that the lifespan of a roof can be impacted by storm damage and other environmental factors. Improper maintenance can also lead to shorter lifespans.
Should I Just Trust My Inspector?
That really depends. Inspectors can be a great resource for homeowners, but even they will be the first to admit that they are generalists, not specialists. If you are uncertain about the information your inspector has provided you about the roof on a potential home, contact a roofing specialist to take a look and inspect the materials, structure, flashing, etc.
What Red Flags Should I Look for?
A proper roof inspection is the best way to tell if the home needs a new roof, but there are several things you can look out for (even without getting up on the roof yourself):
- Cracked, chipped or broken roofing tiles or shingles
- Bare spots or missing shingles
- Blisters on shingles
- Excessive roofing granules on the ground or walkways
- Nail pops
- Broken, missing, or loose flashing
- Curling or warped shingles or tiles
- Faded coloring
- Excessive moss or algae growth
- Rot, mold, or mildew
Remember that an old roof shouldn’t necessarily stop you from buying a dream home. It’s normal for sellers to lower their price after an inspection is done and issues are found. If you work out a deal with a seller and end up buying the home, get in touch with Schmidt Roofing for a free estimate and consultation on your new roof.
