What Questions to Ask About the Roof Before Buying a Home?

1.   How old is the roof?

Even if the roof is fine for now, it is recommended to have the shingles roof replaced every 20 years, and if it is 10 to 15 years old, it is more likely to need a whole replacement. A roof made from composite shingles will help it last longer without any difficulties, while other materials require regular inspection and possible maintenance. If the home you are looking to buy has an older roof, there are some things you should consider, even if you see it is in good shape. Homeowner's insurance carriers are primarily concerned with a roof's ability to protect a home from winds, water damage, and hail. Some factors that come into play in insurance assessments are the age of the roof, its condition, material, and shape. You should also get inspections, keep trees trimmed, and consider future expenses to cover a roof replacement.

2.   Does it has any breaks or leaks? 

Complicated roof leaks occur when water comes through the roof in one area, and the greater the distance between the entrance and exit spots, the more complex it is to repair it. Certain roofing materials are more prone to leaks, including tile roofs and roofs with ridge vents. Leaking could harm your furniture and destroy paint on the walls as well. It is more likely to happen in plumbing vents, valleys, or when it rains heavily, and you will need a professional to find it and take care of it. The problem with roofing damage is that it can be more expensive than it appears. A bad roof could lead to other issues, such as ceiling drywall, insulation, or even structural replacement.

3.   What is it made of? 

To avoid damage and complications, choose a house with a roof that can handle any environmental conditions. The lifespan of your roof will depend on a myriad of factors, such as quality of installation, material, and design. The average roof will last around 20 years, but properly maintained roofs with high-quality materials can last longer than warranties suggest. Slate tiles are the most durable roofing materials, which can last from 50 to 150 years, and clay can last up to 100 years. Asphalt has an average lifespan of 10 to 25 years, concrete 40 to 80 years, and metal roofs tend to last around 30 to 40 years. It is important to remember that materials aren’t everything; it is essential to also choose a brand of roofing material that is known for being high-quality. While wood shingles may last 15 to 20 years, opting for low-quality ones will likely shave a few years off. 

4.   Does it have mold? 

Mold is a fungus that can be dark, white, green, or black. Spores, cells, and unstable organic compounds can enter the air as it grows. They can produce allergies, irritants, and mycotoxins. It can form between walls, under floors and roofs, or in less visible spots. It does best in water-drenched materials such as water pipes and gutter systems. The main reason behind a moldy roof is a direct result of water intrusion or leakage in hotter climates, and it can return to the same spot if the source isn’t completely fixed. Leaving mold on your roof can not only eat away or erode the roof, but those with allergies or asthma are especially susceptible to mold spores that could travel from the top through air ducts as air conditioning systems and be inhaled.

5.   Can I see the roof report? 

The seller should be able to show you a roof report without any issues; if they refuse or are reluctant, it might be a red flag. It’s helpful to know who has done work on the house you are interested in, and regardless of whether or not the seller has had their roof inspected, you can also request an inspection done. If you identify any issues, those are things you can negotiate in the contract.

If you would like to have a free roof inspection of your prospective new home, contact Worthmann Roofing and Gutters. Our professional roofers will be glad to visit the home and provide you with a robust explanation of the state of the roof.