Buying a new home is exciting. Whether this is your first new home purchase or not – every house and roof is different. The condition of the roof will have an impact on getting a mortgage and affordable homeowners’ insurance. Plus, to make sure that your home remains in excellent repair, it’s vital to know a few things about taking care of your roof. From correctly estimating its present condition and tips when purchasing to maintenance best practices, read on to find out everything you need to know.
What To Look For In A Roof When Buying A House
When you’re shopping for a home, make sure to check out the roof’s condition first. If the roof is old and will require replacing within the next two to three years, consider that when making an offer. If you decide to make an offer and it’s accepted, you’ll need to get a roof inspection by a qualified contractor. Both your lender and homeowner’s insurance company will want to make sure the roof is safe and that there are no major problems like leaks or dry rot. They’ll also want to know how much life is remaining.
It’s important to know that having a roof inspection is different than a home inspection. A home inspection looks at the entire structure, including the interior and exterior and the appliances. A roof inspection only looks at the condition of your roof and gutters. The contractor will give you a comprehensive written report with any issues to address and how many years the roof should last. That report will need to be delivered to your lender to make sure the roof is in good enough condition to lend on. It will also be given to your insurance company. The state of the roof will impact your loan approval and your insurance costs.
Repair Options for Your New Home’s Roof
What happens if there are issues with the home’s roof you’re buying?
- You can have the major problems fixed by the seller
- You can pay for them as the buyer
- You can and the seller can split the costs.
The other option is rather than just repairing the roof; you could have a new roof installed if the current one is too old or the condition isn’t very good. That is where having an excellent real estate agent comes in handy. The outstanding ones know how to negotiate while keeping the sale moving along, and all parties involved happy.
What To Have Checked During a Roof Inspection
For any roof inspection, repairs, and upkeep, it’s essential to choose an experienced and reputable company. Never try and save money by using someone unlicensed or a handyman. In fact, many insurance companies won’t cover roof damage if a licensed contractor didn’t do the past work. The main things you want to make sure get checked during your inspection are:
- Shingles – missing, broken, or torn
- Shingles – granules worn away
- Boots – torn or rotted rubber boots around pipes
- Flashing – that’s missing or rusted
- Chimney – missing caps or chimney cracks
- Gutters – that are loose or damaged
- Caulking – that’s missing or cracked
- Sags – because of rot and damage
- Facia boards – damaged or rotted
- Gutters – rusted or damaged
Roofing Tips For New Homeowners
Once you’ve moved into your new home, it’s vital to maintain your roof. If there were minor items on your inspection that you didn’t address before your purchase, keep an eye on them.
Have Your Roofing Material Inspected by a Roofing Contractor
Your inspector may have looked for obvious signs of roof damage when going through the house. For example, they may have looked for missing shingles, indications of roof leaks, or damaged flashing. However, a professional roofer will give you a better indication of your roof’s health.
Many roofing companies offer free inspections. Have one visit to make sure that your roofing system was installed properly. Then, ask if any quick roof repairs can prevent leaks and extend the life of your roof.
Keep Your Gutters Clean
Some parts of homeownership are fun. For example, you may enjoy adding personal touches to your home, planting flowers, and choosing wall colors.
However, some parts of owning a home are not so fun. For example, you must remove leaves, small branches, and other debris from your gutters to keep your roof and foundation healthy. You may consider hiring a licensed and insured roofer to complete this dangerous job.
Learn About Your Roof’s Warranty
Take time to understand your roof’s warranty. Did you receive a transferable warranty from the roofing materials manufacturer? If so, what do you need to do to ensure the warranty is in your name?
Learn the Signs That It Is Time for a Roof Replacement
- The edges of the shingles are curled.
- There are bald spots or cracks on the shingles.
- Moss or algae are growing on your roof.
Call a local roofing company for a free estimate if you notice any of these signs as you look out of your second-story window. Of course, roof repair might be the most cost effective option. However, before you opt for repair work, consider the following two indicators:
- Your roof is at least 20 years old. (The average life span of a roof is between 15 and 30 years old.)
- Your neighbors with homes built at the same time as yours are getting a new roof.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Form a partnership with a local roofing contractor. Schedule regular inspections – just as you will with your HVAC company.
Other Tips
It’s also a good idea to have your roof inspected after a big storm or if you notice any leaks or water spots on the ceiling. Besides regular maintenance, keep trees trimmed and get rid of any dead branches that hang over the house. Doing these little things will save you money and protect your home.
Contact AmeriPro Roofing
AmeriPro Roofing will help you protect your biggest financial investment. We offer all roofing options: emergency roof repair, roof replacement, siding, and gutters. You can expect us to be straightforward when discussing the costs to repair or replace the roof.
