What a Roof Can Tell You About a New House

A house’s roof is an integral part of its construction. In addition to protecting the house aesthetically, it protects the structure as well. When it comes to buying a new house, you need to make sure the roof is sound before making any final agreements. In addition to a professional inspection from companies like No. 1 Home Roofing, there are signs you can see for yourself. The following are what to look for in a roof when buying a new home.

Broken or Missing Shingles

Some roofing problems, such as missing or broken shingles, you will be able to see for yourself. These are not a big problem if caught early enough, but they still leave the roof vulnerable. Ask to have them replaced before you agree to buy the home.

Be sure to ask the current homeowner if they have kept extra shingles from the last time a new roof was installed. These extra shingles can make replacing damaged ones even easier, in case of any future problems.

Water Stains

Not all signs of roof damage are found on the exterior of the home. When touring the house, look at the ceilings, especially ones found on the top floor. Make sure there are no visible water stains. These can indicate a problem with the roof leaking.

Check the Roof’s Age

Every roof needs to be replaced at some point in time. Older roofs can’t offer the protection a new one can. Roofs last up to 30 years on average, but this depends on the quality and type of materials used.

Before making an offer on a house, ask how old the roof is. The older it is, the more likely you will be to face repairs or a replacement in the near future. It is best to know ahead of time if you are dealing with an older roof so that you can factor in the cost of a new one into your budget.

Blocked Gutters

Find out if the gutters are blocked with debris. If the water cannot flow off the roof and away from the house properly, it can cause damage to the roof. If the issue of blocked gutters is resolved in time, you will avoid damages. Otherwise, water and ice can back up under the shingles and jeopardize the roof’s structure.

Know what to look for in a roof when buying a new home, and be sure to ask the homeowner about any problems you notice. They should be repaired before the final sale. If the roof is older, be prepared financially for any future issues that may arise. Remember, No. 1 Home Roofing in Palm Harbor, FL can help you with any of your roofing needs when buying a new house, or with your current roof needs if you own a home in the Tampa Bay, FL area.