What You Should Know About the Roof Before Buying a Home

The roof is one of the most expensive and important parts of a house.  If you've found the home of your dreams, it's very important to have the roof thoroughly inspected before going through with the purchase.  You don't want your dream home to turn into a money pit. If you're selling your home, it's also a good idea to inspect the roof and correct any issues before putting it on the market.

Here are the most important things to consider about the roof when purchasing (or selling) a home:

The Age of the Roof

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a home is the age of the roof. Most roofs have a lifespan of around 20 years. If the roof on the house you're considering buying is more than 20 years old, it's likely time for a replacement.  A new roof can be expensive, so it's a good idea to negotiate the price of the house in order to compensate for the cost of a new roof.

The Roof Material

Another thing to consider is the material of the roof. Some materials are more durable than others. For example, slate and tile roofs often last longer than asphalt shingles. If you're worried about the durability of the roof, ask your real estate agent what the typical lifespan of the material is.

A Good Ventilation System

A good ventilation system is important for a roof because it helps to prevent moisture from building up. It should let sunlight and air flow in easily, and help hot air flow out. If the roof isn't properly ventilated, it can lead to damage and even leaks.

Make sure that the house you're considering buying has good ventilation and ask your real estate agent about the roof's history. It's also a good idea to have a qualified contractor inspect the roof to make sure there are no major problems.

Snow Loads

If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, you'll need to consider the weight of the snow when buying a home. Roofs need to be able to withstand the weight of the snow without caving in.

Most roofs can support at least 30 pounds per square foot, but if you know that your area gets a lot of snow, you may want to ask your real estate agent about the roof's load rating.

A Good Drainage System

If water does not flow properly off the roof, it can pool up and cause damage to various parts of the roof, as well as possibly damaging the foundation or walls of your home.  The drainage system consists of the gutters, downspouts, and drainage pipes.   Make sure the gutters are clear of leaves and debris, are attached properly, and that the downspouts are properly extending away from the house.

Are There Signs of Damage?

You definitely don't want to deal with a leaky roof right after you move into a new home.  Having a professional roofer check for damage and leaks before buying the home is extremely important.  Leaks can be very costly to repair, and may even require the entire roof to be replaced.

Mold or Stains

Mold typically develops due to poor ventilation or water leakage.  A moldy rooftop is a sign that water is present somewhere.  Many people have the mold removed, but never look for the cause of the mold, so it just keeps coming back.  A thorough inspection will detect these issues so you'll be able to make your decision with all the facts.

Purchasing a home is an exciting yet stressful time because it is a big investment and you want to feel safe and secure in your new home.  Most home inspectors will do a basic inspection of the roof, so it's always a good idea to have a professional roofer take a more thorough look into everything to ensure you're not going to be surprised once you move in.  Give Nashville Roofers a call if you need a good roof inspection for your potential new home!