Questions to Ask During a Professional Roof Inspection

Replacing or repairing a roof can be costly, and the purchaser needs to know if the roof has issues.

A professional roof inspection is a must before buying a house. Replacing or repairing a roof can be costly, and the purchaser needs to know if the roof has issues.

A roof inspection may be included as part of a general home inspection, but a professional roofing contractor can perform a much more thorough examination. The answers to these questions will give the buyer a clear picture of the roof’s condition.

How old is the roof?

The National Roofing Contractors Association says most roofing systems remain structurally sound for about 20 years. Of course, that’s just an average, and some roofing materials last much longer. But 20 years is a good figure to keep in mind. Any roof older than that may be nearing the end of its lifecycle, especially if it has been poorly maintained.

What roofing materials were used?

Many homes have asphalt shingle roofs, typically the least expensive to repair. Slate and tile roofs are growing in popularity throughout the U.S.; repairs can be costlier for these materials.

A professional roofing contractor can tell which roofing materials were used and explain what to expect regarding future repair costs.

Is there damage?

A home inspector will typically look for roof damage from the ground and inside the attic, but that may not be enough to reveal more subtle problems with the roofing.

With a professional roof inspection, the potential buyer and seller will know whether the structure shows any evidence of cracks, holes, animal infiltration, water intrusion, or other damage. If the roof has significant damage, it may have spread to encompass structural aspects of its support system.

Is there adequate attic ventilation?

Without proper ventilation, high temperatures can cause a roof to overheat. As a result, the shingles become brittle and less resilient, and strong winds or heavy rain can easily knock them loose. A professional inspection includes a check to ensure adequate ventilation for the roof size.

How much longer will the roof last?

Relatively new roofs can have structural problems or other issues that lead to the need for an early replacement. A professional roof inspection gives a potential buyer and the seller an idea of how soon the house might need a new roof.

Although there are no guarantees, it can help both parties determine the best course of action. If the buyer elects to move forward with the purchase, they can plan for a roof replacement based on the information provided by the professional roofing inspection.

Without an inspection, that dream home could become a money pit. So before investing in a new home, hire a reliable roofing contractor to provide an inspection report.

Eagle Home Renovation is a family-owned general contracting business offering 20 years of experience in residential home remodeling. We remodel kitchens and bathrooms, garages, balconies, porches, deck porches, and more for homeowners in Richmond, VA, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (804)538-3334.