So you are about to buy a new home, be sure to check roofing. Congratulations. And we know that there are a lot of things to think about when buying a home, and a major area you don’t want to overlook is the roof. The roof is one of the most expensive areas of your home. It is also the mainline defense between your home and the weather. The last thing you want to do is to have to replace your roof soon after you move in. Let’s talk about the things you need to look out for in relation to the roof.
Check Roofing From the Ground
You can check roofing from the ground to see if you can notice any flaws that may be easily spotted. Some things you may see from the ground are curled up shingles or even missing shingles. You may also see around the base of the roof vents some wear and tear that may need to be resealed. There is also the possibility of mold on the roof. Mold will degrade the shingles. Ask the owner how old the roof is. Though roofs can last a very long time, with erratic Texas weather, the roof may have received storm damage that has affected the quality and durability of the shingles. If the roof is really old you might want a professional roof inspection done before you buy.
Check Drains and Gutters
You may not be able to see in the gutters to check if there are a lot of roofing granules that have washed off the roof, but you might see it at the bottom of the downspouts. You may be able to see rust on the bottom of the gutters. Both of these may point to roofing problems.
If you are able to see inside the gutters you want to make sure that they are not clogged. And look at how the gutters are installed. If they have been installed incorrectly and they become plugged, you may incur water damage to the wood beneath the bottom shingles.
Check Roofing Ventilation System
You need to check roofing vents are functional. If ventilation becomes blocked, you can end up with moisture problems in your attic that may lead to mold buildup or damage to the structure of your home. Proper ventilation also helps reduce heat and cooling bills.
Check for Roof Leaks
Roof leaks can cause serious damage to the structure of your home as well as the problem of mold. When you are walking around the inside of the house, look for any noticeable signs of water stains or cracks in the ceiling. under the attic. Stains may also be seen on the walls. Leaks in the roof can come from vents, chimney, or faulty shingles. If you can look in the attic, that would be great to see if there is any evidence of leakage. If you can’t, a home inspection before buying will be able to see if there are any problems.
Invest in a Professional Roof Inspection
If you have any qualms about the integrity of the roof on a home you are interested in, you should have a professional roof inspection done. Your home is a huge investment and your roof is one of the major areas of protection for the rest of the home.
Call us immediately at (800)-401-6103 if you would like a professional assessment. Or, use our online scheduler to schedule your FREE appointment. LIFT Construction is here to help!
