How Important is a Roof Inspection?
The roof plays a crucial role in protecting the house’s structure. This is why you should ensure it is in a good condition before sealing the deal on your new home. A roof inspection is typically part of your home inspection. The roof is designed to defend your house against dangerous outside elements. It is also an important factor, which can help determine the value of the property.
Some common issues you need to look out for include:
- Moss growth or lichen are both signs of decay under the roof
- Sagging and clogged gutters
- Broken, buckled, curled and missing shingles
- Loose and blocked downspouts
- Worn out rubber boots covering the vent pipes
A roof inspection protects you by revealing serious problems that might lead to several thousands of dollars on repair. An inspector will point out roofing issues that may compromise the safety and structure of the house, allowing you to make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing your new home. Here are some reasons that highlight the importance of a roofing inspection:
Harsh Weather Conditions
Regardless of where you live, the weather can be unpredictable. From heavy snowfall to harsh winter storms, your house needs to be ready to tolerate heavy rain, large hail, and high winds. Not to mention, as soon as the temperature rises, the punishing summer sun can weaken shingles, causing structural damage to the roof. Before purchasing a house, ensure you have thoroughly inspected the condition of the roof.
Maintenance Costs
If your roof is not properly protected, repair people performing maintenance on air conditions and other systems around the house can cause damage. This is likely to become a problem if the repairman leaves refrigerant containers or fails to close mechanical access panels on roofs. Allowing dirt and debris to pile up on the roof and also result in other maintenance problems in the future. Opt for a roof inspection to ensure there are no problems.
Weathering and Aging
Depending on how old the house is, you need to realize the useful life for most single-ply roofs is 15 to 25 years, while multi-ply bituminous low-slope roofs can last 20 to 30 years. Like other components of the house, the roof also undergoes aging and weathering. However, the effects are not always visible which is why you should have the roof professional inspected. A roof inspection will help assess whether the house is worth buying on not. Repair and maintenance may not always come cheap, which is why you must ensure the roof is in good condition.
Vegetation Damage
Aside from weather damage and old age, vegetation can also be the reason behind a deteriorating roof. Vegetation can grow on roofs and other low areas if the gutter is not cleaned regularly. Not to mention, birds land on rooftops, depositing seeds, which can also promote vegetation. Gutters are a primary source of vegetation growth because of the accumulation of moisture, seeds, and dirt. Additionally, tree branches scraping on roofs due to heavy winds can also lead to significant damage.
A roofing inspection brings attention to these budding problems, which can lead to further damage of the house. Having the details from an inspection report can also give you leverage in negotiations. The seller might be willing to lower the price or will offer to pay for replacements and repairs before signing the contract. Above all, a roof inspection ensures you do not pay more than the house’s worth, allowing you to save money. Do not be fooled, most roof problems are usually not visible. This is why you should conduct a roofing inspection before buying a house, just in case.