Ganser Company

A house is one of the biggest investments you will ever make. Needless to say, you want your new home to be safe and comfortable for your family. When considering a property, make sure to pay attention to the roof because it plays a significant role in your household’s protection against harsh weather and the elements. Ensuring it is in good shape before purchasing the house will help you save on roof repair or replacement costs.  

Ask these essential roof-related questions before buying a house.

What’s the Importance of a Roof to a House?

The roof serves as a layer of protection against rain, sunlight, snow and other outdoor elements. When this exterior component is in bad shape, water can enter your living space and cause several issues, including mold, rot and poor indoor air quality. A compromised roofing system can also be detrimental to the value of your property and curb appeal. 

Did you know that your roof can help you save on energy costs? A roofing system with sufficient ventilation and insulation can help minimize air leaks. As a result, it will be easier to heat and cool your home. Your HVAC system won’t need to work as hard to keep you comfortable, resulting in energy savings. 

Roof-Related Questions to Ask Before Buying a House

When Was the Roof Installed?

The first thing you need to ask is the roof’s age. This information will give you a better idea of when a replacement is necessary. It will also help you determine ways to delay the need for one. The age of your roof can also affect your insurance costs and if your insurer will provide a new policy on your newly purchased property. 

Who Is the Roof Installer?

Did a reputable roofing contractor install the roof, or was the job done by the homeowner? If the seller also owns the house, you can ask the owners who installed the roof. Once you have the company name, research its background, experience and expertise. 

With a reliable contractor, you will have peace of mind that the property you are buying is well-protected and in good condition. If the installer has negative reviews or went out of business shortly after it opened, consider getting an inspection from reputable professionals. 

What Material Was Used on the Roof?

A roof’s lifespan and the protection it can give your home highly depend on the material. With proper installation and maintenance, asphalt shingles usually last for at least two decades, and metal roofs have a lifespan of more than 50 years. The more durable the material is, the less likely you’ll need to spend on repairs.

How Many Layers of Shingles Does the Roof Have?

When the time comes for a roof replacement, you can choose between a tear-off and an overlay. The first option involves removing the old materials before installing the new ones. Meanwhile, the latter is when the installers lay new shingles over the existing material. 

Unfortunately, a roof overlay fails to address existing issues with the system. The result isn’t as flawless as a tear-off since the shingles don’t lay flat. It makes the roof more prone to leaks and water damage. Another issue an overlay can cause is structural problems with the roof and the rest of the house. These are mainly due to the weight of multiple layers of shingles. 

When Was the Last Roof Inspection?

Regular roof inspections go a long way in prolonging the life of your roof. It helps catch issues that could worsen later on in the roof’s lifespan. For instance, high winds can cause problems that can affect the longevity of shingles, including newly installed ones. During storms, debris from nearby trees, such as heavy branches, could scratch your roof or poke holes through its surface. When left undetected, even small leaks can cause severe damage to your roof and the rest of your home. 

You can count on an experienced roofer for a thorough inspection. They can diagnose roofing issues that the untrained eye can easily miss. Professionals look at areas that are usually overlooked and determine if roof repair is necessary. They check if your gutters are in good shape to ensure good drainage. Your contractor also likely knows when you need to replace your roof. 

Is the Roof’s Warranty Still Valid?

Warranties protect your roof against manufacturing defects and workmanship errors. Ask the owner if the existing roof’s warranty is valid and if it is transferable. If coverage is transferable, it will be passed on to you once you purchase the house. 

Get a copy of the warranty from the seller, and read its terms and conditions carefully. What kind of coverage would you receive if it is transferable? Consider how long the remaining life of the roof is if the warranty is not transferable to the next owner of the house. 

Has the Roof Been Previously Repaired?

Sellers are usually required to disclose information about previous and existing issues with the house, including the roof. Sometimes, they do forget to share these details with you. That’s why it pays to ask about roof repairs and damage. The more you know about the roof and the property, the more informed decisions you can make. You’ll also be able to factor in how much the repairs will cost. It will also save you from spending money on a house that requires a lot of work.   

Will You Offer a Lower Price Because of an Old or Damaged Roof?

An old roof doesn’t have to be a deal breaker when purchasing a house. The seller might be willing to offer a lower price to help pay for the roof replacement. With a new roof, you are strengthening your home’s protection against weather extremes. Another plus is that you can get a new and lengthier warranty.

Let Ganser Company handle your home exteriors remodeling needs. We offer superior roof repair and replacement services. Our team also specializes in skylight, window, door and siding installation. Call us at (608) 222-1243, or fill out our contact form to get a free quote.