There are many things to consider when moving into a new home. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, is inspecting the roof. A faulty roof can lead to costly repairs down the road, and may even be dangerous. Here are eight reasons why you should check the roof before moving in.
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The Age Of The Roof
One of the first things you should check is the age of the roof. If it’s more than 20 years old, it may need to be replaced soon. Even if it’s in good condition, an old roof is more likely to leak. Any roofing older than 20 years will thus require new roof installations, preferably done with the help of a professional.
Make sure that there are enough vents Even if the roof is new, you should still check the condition of the shingles. Look for any cracked, missing, or curling shingles. These could be signs that the roof wasn’t installed correctly, or that it wasn’t made with high-quality materials. If you see any of these issues, it’s best to have a professional inspect the roof before moving in.
The Gutters And Downspouts
The gutters and downspouts are an important part of the roofing system. They help to redirect water away from the home and prevent flooding. Make sure that they’re free of debris and properly attached to the home. If they’re not, water could leak into the home and cause damage. For example, if the gutters are full of leaves and water overflows, it could leak into the home and cause mold growth.
The Condition Of The Shingles
As mentioned before, you should check the condition of the shingles before moving in. Look for any cracks, missing pieces, or curling edges. These could be signs that the roof needs to be replaced. If you see any of these issues, it’s best to have a professional inspect the roof before moving in.
The Flashing and Ventilation
The flashing is a thin strip of metal that’s used to seal gaps around vents, chimneys, and skylights. It prevents water from leaking into the home through these openings. Make sure that the flashing is in good condition and properly installed. If it’s not, water could leak into the home and cause damage. On the other hand, proper ventilation is important for preventing damage to the roof. It helps to remove heat and moisture from the attic, which can extend the life of the roof.
Make sure that there are enough vents in the attic and that they’re not blocked by insulation or other debris. If the ventilation is insufficient, it could lead to premature deterioration of the roof.
The Roof Deck and The Attic
The roof deck is the plywood or OSB board that’s attached to the rafters. It provides a base for the shingles and protects the home from water damage. Make sure that it’s in good condition and properly attached to the rafters. If it’s not, water could leak into the home and cause damage. The attic is another important part of the roofing system. It helps to remove heat and moisture from the home and extends the life of the roof. Make sure that it’s well-ventilated and free of insulation or other debris.
If the attic is poorly ventilated, it could lead to premature deterioration of the roof. Also, check for any signs of water damage, such as leaks or stains. These could be signs that the roof is leaking and needs to be repaired.
Hire A Professional
If you’re not sure how to inspect the roof, it’s best to hire a professional. They can check for any issues and make sure that the roof is in good condition. They can also provide you with a report that you can use when negotiating the price of the home. When choosing a professional, consider the following factors:
- The cost: This is an important factor to consider, but you shouldn’t choose the cheapest option. The quality of the work is more important than the cost.
- The experience: Choose a company that has been in business for several years. They should have a good reputation and be able to provide references.
- The warranty: Make sure that the company offers a warranty on their work. This will protect you in case of any problems.
When buying a new home, it’s important to have a professional inspector check the roof. They can identify any potential problems and help you negotiate a fair price. If you’re not sure how to inspect the roof yourself, follow these tips. Checking the roof before moving in can save you time and money in the long run.
