Buying a House? Don’t Forget to Consider the Roof!
One thing a lot of people don’t have at the forefront of their minds at this time is the roof. Yet as any expert at Dykstra Knight will tell you, the roof is of paramount importance when considering buying a home…
It’s not just the appearance of the roof that’s important, but its structural integrity. Failing to properly consider this can cost you a lot of money after you commit to the purchase if you need to replace it or undertake significant repairs.
Perform a visual roof inspection from the outside, and look for things like build up of moss, rusted areas, loose or missing shingles, or shingles that are cracked or warped. Check gutters and for signs of leaks in the interior of the house, such as stained ceilings.
What you need to know about the roof:
- Its Age – How old is the current roof? Every different roof type has its own estimated lifespan. Normal asphalt shingles are made to last up to twenty years; a metal rooftop can last forty to fifty years; while slate tile can have a lifespan of up to a century.
- Type of Shingles – As aforementioned, the type of shingling will give an indication of how long a roof can be expected to last. Also look at the quality of the shingles used.
- Composition – How many layers of roofing materials have been used? Standards vary and regulations limit the number of layers of roofing material that can be allowed. At most, many standards specify no more than two layers – the original materials with a single layer on top.
- Installer – Any roof should have been professionally installed by a reputable installer – not a DIY job!
- Ventilation? – A healthy roof needs adequate ventilation so that the structure of the roof under the shingles maintains its integrity. Poor ventilation in the roof can result in dry rot, crumbling, and sagging.
- Maintenance – Has the roof had any repairs since installation? Have gutter maintenance and roof clearing been done? What ongoing maintenance requirements does this type of roof have?
Always pay attention to these questions when you look to purchase a house. Ask for records relating to roof installation and maintenance, and seek a professional inspection for peace of mind before you sign the contract of sale.