5 Roofing Questions to Ask Before Buying a House

When buying a new house, one of the things you have to check is the roof. Generally, you want a new or well-maintained roof that will serve you for several years. To learn more about a property’s roofing system, you should ask these five roof-related questions before making an offer. 

5 Questions to Ask About the Roof

1. How Old Is the Roof?

The roof’s age gives hints about its state and any possible issues it may have. Sellers usually keep the documentation of their roofing system, so you can ask them to provide you with a copy. If they don’t have any, you can ask a roof repair or replacement company to inspect the roof and determine its age.

2. What Repairs Were Done to the Roof?

The roof’s previous issues and record of repairs it received in the past can help you anticipate problems with it later and prepare for the possible expenses. If the seller did not maintain the roof regularly, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a professional to know what you’re getting. You can also use this to negotiate a lower price for the house.

3. When Was the Roof’s Most Recent Inspection?

Roof inspections reveal issues present in old and new roof materials. For example, new roofs that encountered a windy storm may have hidden damage. An in-depth roofing inspection can bring these issues to light and reveal problems that the roof developed over the years or from a recent storm. 

4. Is the Roof’s Warranty Transferable?

Transferable warranties are great to have, but not always necessary. For example, a well-installed new roof can protect your home for decades and has a low chance of having defects or developing problems shortly after you purchase the property. 

5. Will You Negotiate for a Lower Price?

Buyers can use the property’s old roof as a negotiating point. Some sellers are willing to lower their asking price since the buyer will cover the cost of roof replacement after buying the house.

Signs That a Roof Needs Replacement Soon

If the current homeowner can’t provide adequate information about the roof, you can ask a roofing company to conduct an inspection. This will determine if the roof is going to need replacement in a few years. Typically, the roofers will look for the following signs indicating a roof needs replacement soon:

• Leaks

An inspection can tell you If a roof developed leaks in the past. Experts usually check for worn-out materials as well as signs that water may have seeped from the shingles to the underlayment. Water stains or discoloration on ceilings and walls could also indicate roof leaks.

• Water Damage Inside the House

Hidden roof leaks turn into severe damage over time. These can soften the wooden parts of the attic, such as the sheathing and rafters, and create stains, streaks or water spots in your indoor spaces. Call a roofing contractor if you spot any of these issues.

• Missing Shingles

Roof underlayment cannot handle full exposure to rainfall. Missing shingles across the roof will need replacement. Your contractors can replace these missing shingles to keep the home safe.

• Damaged Shingles

The roof may need immediate replacement if shingle damage is severe and widespread. Shingles that have curled, cracked or split need replacement. If contractors find these issues throughout the roof, they would likely recommend replacing the entire system.

• Sagging Roofline

New roofs do not have sagging lines because they still have strong structural components. Sagging indicates possible damage to the sheathing or rafters. Make sure to address this problem immediately because structural damage increases the risk of roof collapse. 

What Is Considered a Good Roof?

High-quality roofing can protect homes from extreme weather events and other elements while sustaining minimal damage. Roofing companies consider the following as the qualities of excellent roofing materials:

• Strength

Roofing materials may suffer from dents during hailstorms. However, higher-quality asphalt shingles can resist hail impact without major blisters and damage. These shingles are often dense and heavy, so you have to consider if your roof and house can carry their weight.

• Wind Resistance

Roof materials have varying levels of wind resistance. For example, a highly wind-resistant roof can withstand sustained gales. Some specially manufactured shingles can withstand high wind speeds during storms. Roofers can upgrade your existing roof’s wind resistance by using more nails and starter strips. Roof geometry also plays a role in a roof’s wind resistance. For example, gable roofs with short overhangs and sufficient supports are less prone to lifting. 

• Water Resistance

Roofs endure rainfall and moisture all the time. Water-resistant roofing materials won’t easily get damaged when exposed to water. For example, modern metal roofing materials improve their water resistance with a special coating.

• Fire Resistance

Some materials have top-notch fire resistance. These are helpful in an emergency and can preserve most of the property. Asphalt shingles with Class A fire resistance rating help lower insurance premiums because they have excellent fire resistance.

How Is Roofing Warranty Transferred?

If your seller’s roof warranty is transferable, here are a few things to know to ensure the transfer goes smoothly.

• Keep in mind that roofing manufacturers have strict guidelines to ensure a smooth transfer between the seller and buyer. In most cases, warranties can only be transferred once. Manufacturers may also charge a small fee to process the transfer.

• Buyers can expect coverage for specific roofing components. However, this depends on the roof’s age and the date of transfer.

• Contact the roofing manufacturer after you and the seller have finalized the sale. You must have all the closing documents and other requirements to prove your ownership.

• Most manufacturers will require you to submit the paperwork and transfer request within two months after closing the sale. You will need several documents to prove your ownership, such as a copy of the deed or the closing documentation indicating the seller’s and buyer’s names, and the property transfer’s date.

Need top-notch roof replacement or repair services? You can rely on Done-Right Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. to provide you with exceptional workmanship and customer service. With our expertise, we’re always ready to keep your roof in top shape. Call us at (905) 875-2888, or fill out this contact form for a free consultation.