Wanting to buy a home? Read these 5 roofing tips!

By Royalty Roofing. 

When buying a home, it’s important to make sure that the roof is in good condition. Here are five ways you can learn more about your roof’s longevity.  

Purchasing a home is a huge moment in people’s lives, what with the amount of emotional and fiscal investment it takes. This experience is filled with a range of emotions and decisions. Between location, flooring, windows, parking and more, it can be difficult to remember to check on the condition of the roof. Although this is a harder-to-see part of the home, it is a crucial element of the entire structure’s integrity and comfort. Roofs are also expensive to repair or replace, so it can save you a lot of time and money to make sure you know everything that is happening up there before closing the deal. Check out these five tips and must-ask questions that our Royalty Roofing experts have to share! 

1 - Understand the roof’s age and material 

Knowing the age and material of your prospective home’s roof is crucial. Different materials have varying lifespans and maintenance needs: 

• Asphalt shingles: The most common roofing material, typically lasts 15-30 years. 
• Metal roofs: Can last 40-70 years, depending on the material. 
• Tile and slate roofs: May last over 100 years but require a sturdy structural support due to their weight. 

Ask the seller for documentation about the roof, including installation date and any repair history. This information will give you a sense of any imminent repairs or replacement needs. 

2 - Get a professional roof inspection 

While a general home inspection is a non-negotiable part of the home-buying process, consider investing in a specialized roof inspection. A certified roofing professional can uncover issues that a general inspector might overlook, such as subtle signs of water damage, improper installations or areas prone to leaks. This upfront investment can save you from unexpected headaches and financial strain down the line. 

3 - Look for signs of wear and damage 

Some signs of roof wear and damage are observable even to the untrained eye. Look out for: 

• Missing, cracked or curling shingles 
• Rust spots or cracked caulk on flashing 
• Moss and lichen growth, which could indicate roof decay beneath 
• Wear around chimneys, pipes and other penetrations 

Noticing these signs early can mean the difference between simple repairs and a costly full roof replacement. 

4 - Understand your warranty and insurance coverage 

Familiarize yourself with any existing warranties on the roof, including what is covered and for how long. Additionally, ensure your homeowner’s insurance policy covers damage to the roof under various scenarios. Understanding these details can help you navigate any future claims more effectively. 

5 - Ask about recent repairs 

If the current homeowners have conducted any repairs, inquire about the nature of these repairs and whether they were professionally done. This information can provide insights into potential problem areas and the quality of solutions applied. 

The roof may not be the first thing that comes to mind when purchasing your first home, but its importance cannot be overstated. By applying these roofing tips, homebuyers can make informed decisions, prevent unexpected costs and ensure their new home remains safe and comfortable for years to come. Remember, a home is more than just a place to live; it’s an investment in your future. Protecting it starts from the top down. 

Original article source: Royalty Roofing