Whether you are looking for your first home or making an upgrade, buying a house is a massive decision that will have a major impact on your family's finances. But before you get lost in the home’s perfect kitchen, indulgent tub, or generous backyard space, don’t forget to investigate its roof. It is a common oversight, but the roof provides a great deal of support for your household. The wrong type of roof can be problematic for anybody.
At JMR Roofing, we want to help you feel confident about the roof over your head in your next home. In this blog, we put together our top 4 things to consider before making an offer on a new home.
Age of the Roof
It is important to know the age of the roof when buying a new home. Instead of just asking the seller, we recommend finding the date from the official paperwork (ask your realtor for help!). The owner of the home may give you a vague answer, and if you’re looking to avoid repairs, the official paperwork can answer questions about the roof’s lifespan, materials, and its latest repairs.
Right Roof Materials
By understanding what materials the roof is made of, you can gain insights about potential roofing repairs and proper maintenance. Roofs come with different types of materials, such as asphalt, tile, slate, metal, wood shingles, or rubber composite shingles, and each type of material offers a specific look with a unique lifespan. For example, metal roofs can last longer than asphalt shingles, but tiles can sometimes be the most durable option. It’s important to consider what your wants and needs are in regard to roofing materials, like durability, aesthetic appeal, and longevity.
Quality of the Roof
If the roof materials are not up to code, you may need to replace the shingles more often. We recommend having a physical inspection done by you and a roofing expert before closing. You can perform your own casual inspection as you tour the home to gauge the quality of the roof before making your offer. Check for signs of wear and tear, including:
- Cracked rubber seals
- Examine the gutters and roof overhangs
- Cracked caulking on the gutters and flashing
If you shift into the official buying process, it is highly encouraged to have a professional roofing expert inspect the roof. An expert can provide you with information about any unseen issues or future problems that could arise.
The Attic
When you are considering purchasing a new home, the attic may show you a number of signs that the roof is not doing its job. Some of the following could be warning signs:
- Pin holes of light where the sun shines through
- Poor ventilation
- A lack of insulation
- Stains on the wooden supports (can be a sign of water damage)
If you find any of these signs in your initial assessment of a home you’re interested in buying, we recommend contacting a roofing company for an inspection.
Buy Your Next Home with Confidence
When you are investing in a home, you need to ensure the roof is providing support. The right roof will give you a great home for years to come, which is why having experienced roof specialists can help you start your life in your new home on the right foot. Get in contact with JMR Roofing and we can give you the right support for all your roofing needs.
Professional Roofing Inspections with JMR Roofing
Buy your next home with confidence! With over 50 years of combined experience, our team can provide expert roof advice for all new homebuyers. Give us a call at 205-734-9995 or visit our website today for a free quote or more information.
