3 Essential Roofing Questions to Ask Before Buying a Home

Buying a home is a big decision. That’s why you should be careful in making choices and ensure that you have all the important information when weighing your options. When meeting with a home seller or a real estate agent, make sure that some of your questions focus on the roofing.

The roof is a critical part of any home. It provides an essential layer of protection against the elements. Any problem in the roofing could create a major headache for you down the road. In this post, trusted roof repair expert The Great American Roofing Company lists three roofing questions to ask before buying a home.

How Old Is the Roof?

Find out how long the roof has been installed because this would give you an idea about how soon before you need to have it replaced. Apart from that, older roofs tend to be more prone to wear and tear since the materials are probably no longer as efficient as when they were brand new.

If the home seller has no idea about the roof’s age, it may be safe to assume that the roof is probably nearing the end of its life span. You can also use the roof’s current condition as a basis. It’s usually recommended to hire a roofing contractor to do a thorough inspection. This way, you can get a full report of any existing issues with the roof. Typically, they would look for signs of wear and tear and indications of roof damage such as mold growth and dark stains on walls and ceilings. A sagging roof is usually a sign of water damage and signals a need for roof replacement.

Are the Roof and Attic Properly Ventilated?

Proper ventilation is important for any roofing system. It prevents the roof and the attic space from overheating and developing problems that could affect the rest of the home. By enabling fresh air to enter the attic space and letting stale air escape through vents, an excessive amount of warm, moist air can be avoided. Keep in mind that too much heat and moist air can cause shingles to deteriorate quickly. Furthermore, poor ventilation could also affect the comfort in your living spaces and force your HVAC system to work harder.

Is There Sufficient Roof Drainage?

Gutters are essential in protecting the roof against water damage. If these are clogged, water could possibly back up to the roof or spill onto the ground near the home’s foundation. Make sure the gutter system is in good working condition and the downspouts are able to discharge water away from the home.

The Great American Roofing Company has been serving the local community since 1974. Whether you need to fix a roof leak or replace an old roof, our crew can ensure quality workmanship and value for your money. Call us at (201) 825-2955 or fill out our contact form to request a free quote.