When you’re in the market for a new home, there are a lot of things to consider. One of the most important is the state of the roof. A good roof will protect your home from the elements and help keep it comfortable all year round. Here’s what to look for when you’re viewing a potential new home and want to be confident in the quality of its roof.
The type of roofing material
The type of roofing material is important, as it will affect the overall look of the home and the expected longevity of the roof surface. There are a few types to choose from, including asphalt shingles, metal, rubber roll roofs, and tiles. Tiles are the most popular choice due to their affordability and availability in a wide range of colours, textures and styles. They offer a traditional, elegant look that is also highly durable and can last for years with minimal maintenance.
The age of the roof
With all of the elements that a roof can encounter, checking its age is essential when assessing roof condition. Generally, a roof should last for decades, only needing a replacement when it shows serious signs of wear and tear. A roof can last longer than this if it has been well-maintained with regular inspections and repairs, but the older it gets, the less efficient it will become when defending against rain and wind damage. Ultimately, the age of the roof should be considered when evaluating its condition – a newer one must be expected to have better resilience than an older model.
The condition of the roof
Conducting a thorough inspection of the roof is an essential task when conducting a home evaluation. Any issues, such as missing or damaged shingles, rust, and corrosion on metal roofs, should be taken note of. Often, these are indicative of more concerning problems and should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure the safety and security of the interior of the home. This critical step can help in identifying any potential issues early on, so further damage to the roof can be prevented or minimised.
The pitch of the roof
Buying a house with an extension that has a flat roof can potentially be an issue if you live in a place where the weather conditions are unpredictable. This is because flat or shallow pitched roofs are not as resilient against heavy rain and snow as steeper pitched roofs, therefore they are more prone to leaking. Steeply pitched roofs on the other hand have higher levels of resilience as the angle helps keep weather elements from seeping inside, thus making them less likely to leak. It’s best to do your research before committing to buy your future home.
The gutters and downpipes
Having properly maintained gutters and downpipes is a crucial part of making sure your home is sufficiently prepared for the changing weather conditions. Gutters aid in channelling rainwater away from the foundation, where it can cause serious damage if left unaddressed, while downpipes draw away any build-up of water that may form from this drainage system. Checking that your gutters are in good condition and firmly attached to the house can help ensure that this system is doing its job to protect your home from potential harm caused by inclement weather.
The insulation
Ensuring that your home is properly insulated can help reduce energy costs and keep you comfortable throughout the year. Insulation acts as a barrier against heat loss from your home in winter and prevents hot air from entering your home in summer. It also helps to store heat generated inside your home, further reducing energy expenditure. When considering insulation options for your new home, be sure to determine the best R-value. This will provide optimal temperature control and energy savings. You should also take into account the thickness of the insulation material, its permeability to water vapor and its effectiveness in dampening sound. With these considerations, you can ensure that your new home has maximum insulation performance with minimal impact on the environment.
Roofing checks – The key points
When you’re inspecting a potential new home, it’s important to pay close attention to the roof. The roof is one of the most important parts of any home, and if it’s in bad condition it can lead to serious problems down the line. There are several things you should look for when assessing a roof: the type of material, the age, the condition, the pitch, gutters, and insulation. If you need any more advice on what to look for in a roof, contact us at Roof Rescue. We’re always happy to help!
