Here’s What to Look for When Evaluating a Roof

Evaluate the Age of the Roof

One of the most important indicators of a roof’s value is the age of the roof. The longer a roof has been in service, the more it will have accumulated damage. This can range from small leakages to large holes initiated by hail damage. Ideally, it’s best to purchase a home with a roof that is either new or has been replaced in the last five years. If the roof is older, factor into the cost of buying a home the cost to replace a roof based on a (typical) 30-year lifespan while taking into account any mitigating or complicating factors. For example, is there a large tree hanging overhead that could drop a branch in the next big storm?

Consider the Roof’s Materials

The materials that are used to construct your roof are important. You want to make sure that the materials are strong and reliable. Look for a roof made of sturdy, long-lasting materials like metal, slate, clay tile, architectural shingles, or wood shakes. These materials will last longer than cheaper alternatives like cheaper asphalt options. They aren’t bad necessarily, but in many cases, you get what you pay for in both materials and installation ability.

A roof made of these durable materials will be able to deliver strength and durability over the years. And in the event of a storm, your roof won’t leak or let moisture accumulate.

The type of material used in the home you are considering buying is important because it affects both how well the roof will hold up against storms and how long you’ll have till you likely need to install a roof replacement.

Observe the Condition of the Roof

When you’re planning to purchase a new home, it is important to take a close look at the roof’s general condition. The condition of your roof is an important factor in determining if the house is worth buying. For example, if there are signs of water infiltration or roof leaks, this might be cause for concern, particularly if the sellers are unwilling to fix the issue or offer concessions on the price. If you’re not sure how to check for these signs, consider hiring a roofing professional who can give you a thorough inspection.

Watch Out for Leaks

A roof seems pretty straightforward, but it’s actually one of the most important and complex systems of your home. Leaks can spring up anywhere over time, depending on their cause. If you’ve ever had to deal with water leaking into your home, you know just how much damage this can cause. Leaks lead to drywall damage, costly repairs, and even mold growth. If you’re considering buying a new home, make sure to walk the attic to look for obvious leaks. If you end up buying the home, make sure a qualified inspector and maybe also even a roofing professional provides a thorough inspection.

Pay Attention to Slope and Pitch

One of the things you want to consider when inspecting your roof are its slopes and pitches. This is because different roof types require different pitch and slope dimensions. For example, a gable roof requires a slope that’s 3:12. A shed roof requires a pitch of 4:12, while a flat roof requires no pitch or slope at all, and theoretically would be more prone to leaking if not properly installed. These are just examples of what could be necessary for certain roofs, but there are many other possibilities as well.

Again, a roofing professional like the ones we employ at Cecil Jennings Roofing and Construction in Athens, GA will be happy to assist you in assessing a home you are considering purchasing.

Consider Your Climate Zone

The roof is a significant—and exposed—part of your home. It’s the place where water and snow collect and wind hits. It also can be exposed to harsh sunlight which can cause issues, or little sunlight if heavily shaded which increases potentially damaging moisture. The roof needs to be strong enough to stand up to all the elements it’s exposed to, so keep that in mind when evaluating a home.

In a cold climate zone, your roof should have insulation and an ice-resistant coating so your home can stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. In a hot climate zone, your roof should have a reflective coating so your home doesn’t overheat during hot days or freeze during cold nights. The roof’s longevity depends on how well it handles these conditions. If you live in a humid area with lots of rainwater, you’ll want a roof that can handle that type of damage without leaking water into your home or otherwise decaying over time.

Talk to a Professional Before Making a Decision

One of the most important things you can do to stay smart about your new home purchase is to speak with a roofing professional. There are many factors that go into any roof condition, and it’s vital that you not make an uninformed decision. To get the best service possible, plan on speaking with a company like Cecil Jennings Roofing & Construction. We are roofers and general contractors, so we know all the ins and outs of how homes are built and roofs are installed. That can give you a distinct advantage at the bargaining table!

Finding the Right Home Means Having a Great Roof

Buying a home is a huge and exciting decision. So it’s critical to have a roof over your head that will endure the test of time. The last thing you want is to spend thousands on replacing your roof after it’s been compromised by the elements. Before buying, be sure to follow the tips in this guide to make sure you’re really getting what you’re paying for.

For a free estimate or answers to all your roofing questions, contact us at Cecil Jennings Roofing & Construction. We are based in Athens, GA, and we are locally-owned, family-operated, top rated (check out our reviews!), and proud to be trusted with roofs over the heads of Athenians since 1999.