The housing market can be a stressful thing to deal with. It’s essential to make sure that the houses you’re looking at don’t have any major problems you’ll be dealing with. An excellent thing to check is the roof. Roofing can be costly to replace, so being aware of any roofing problems is an excellent idea. However, some people may not know the roofing problems to look for in a new home. Luckily, Hennessey Roofing has the information you need to ensure the roof on a perspective house is in good shape.
Should I Worry About an Old Roof?
An old roof doesn’t always guarantee the need for a replacement. If a roof is older but still in good condition, it can easily be used for years to come. Unfortunately, if the roof is on the verge of needing replacement or has any need or repair, that will most likely fall to you. Ask when the roof was last replaced. That information, along with roofing material and local weather, should give you a decent idea of when the roof will need replacing.
Roofing Problems to Look for in a New Home
There are many problems a roof can have, and it may be challenging to look for all of them without professional help. However, these three problems are easier to notice and can be serious issues. Keep a lookout for any leaks, shingle damage, or roof sagging.
Leaks
Water damage can do serious damage to roofing. A full-blown leak in the roof, while annoying, is a serious issue. Water leaks through the roof and cracks key components as it funnels down. A leak can quickly go from a small drip to a stream of water. If left unchecked, a leaky roof can even take enough structural damage to collapse! Look around the roof and in the attic for any signs of moisture or water damage, as they can point to a leak.
Damaged Shingles
Take a look at the roof from outside the house. It may be missing shingles or broken bits of shingles. Even shingle granules around the ground near the roof can indicate shingle damage. Shingles are the armor for your roof, so taking damage is serious. It can lead to the more delicate internals of your roof being damaged from the weather. Often, shingle damage can be repaired, and you can sometimes negotiate part of that repair cost in your offer.
Sagging
If you see that the roof is sagging, the house may be in big trouble. A sagging roof will need a replacement and is also a sign of an issue with the house’s load-bearing walls! The house may also need repairs in its foundation itself! If you see a house on the market with a sagging roof, it may be good to avoid it.
