There are few things more disheartening than finding a home you love then realizing it needs major repairs before you move in. When in the market for a new house, it’s important to know what to look for in the beginning stages of your search so you don’t get your heart set on a home with unexpected or expensive issues.
The roof is one of the areas you should always pay attention to as an old or damaged roof could end up costing you thousands in repairs or replacement. Here are some tips on quickly determining what shape your potential new home’s roof is in.
Ask How Old It Is
When looking at a potential new home, one of your first questions should be, “How old is the roof?”. Asphalt roofs will typically last 20 years, wood shake 30 years, and slate or copper tile roofs can last up to 50 years. Standing seam metal roofs can last 40 to 60 years and provide a great defense against Maine weather, however, other types of metal roofing are not as durable or long-lasting If the roof on the home you’re considering is older, you may want to negotiate a new roof in your contract.
Look for Curled, Damaged or Missing Shingles
If a visual inspection of the home’s roof reveals curled, damaged or missing shingles, a roof repair or replacement may be needed before you buy the home, or soon thereafter. You can usually spot big problems from the ground, but getting a professional appraiser up on the roof to do a more thorough inspection is strongly recommended.
Keep an Eye out for Water Damage Inside
When you enter the home, keep an eye out for water damage, especially near the ceiling. Look for bubbles, water spots, or mold and mildew. Any water damage could indicate a chimney or roof leak that will need to be taken care of before more damage is done.
If you do fall in love with a home and decide to make an offer, use a professional appraiser and pay close attention to their report regarding the condition of the roof as well as the rest of the home. If you have questions about your future home’s roof, please contact Horch Roofing.
For 17 years Horch Roofing has been Coastal Maine’s trusted expert for roofing or gutter replacement and repairs. We serve customers from Kittery to Bar Harbor from our offices in Warren and Westbrook. Horch Roofing repairs and installs metal roofing, asphalt shingle roofing, EPDM rubber roofing, and seamless gutters for both residential and commercial roofing projects. Learn more at https://horchroofing.com/contact-us/ or call our experts at 207-273-1111.