Home buyers have plenty of things to look out for when considering to purchase a home. The roof is one of the most expensive components of a home, and it is therefore imperative to be thorough with the inspection. Some of the things to look out for in a roof when buying a house are listed below.

Age of the roof

Before signing a check for a new home, do a visual inspection of the roof to determine if there are any glaring defects. Some of the things to look for in a roof is whether it is mold-free, has loose, curled or missing shingles, rust spots, piles of moss or worn rubber around the pipe’s vent. Make sure that you get information regarding the roof’s age and any warranties it has from the previous owner. It’s at this time that you check the materials used for the roof. Some materials require frequent maintenance while others have a longer shelf life. Here, you will need to hire a certified inspector to help with the inspection.

Drainage System

Checking on the roof’s downspouts, gutters and, drainage pipes is a way of gauging the roof’s condition. Check for signs of asphalt shingle grains on drainage pipes and the gutters that run along the roof. This gritty material appears in gutters that have are worn and have old shingles, and they signal that the roof needs replacement.

Look for Signs of Leaks

Rooftops leaks play a significant role in damaging the structure of the house. Leaking ruins house furniture, the paints and can also destroy the whole wall as well as encourage the growth of mold. Once the leaking begins, it is quite frustrating since it is challenging to detect or track the source of the leak. Remember not to ignore even a small leak since it can bring down the whole house if ignored. Leakage mostly happens in chimneys, valleys, plumbing vents or when it rains hard. Some signs of leaks that should be taken into consideration include:
  • Peeling paint around overhangs
  • Dark spots on ceilings inside the house
  • Gaps around the chimney exit on the roof
  • Piles of mold
When purchasing a new home, it is advised for one to hire a professional to inspect and give a detailed report. Consequently, repairs should be completed before moving into the new house to avoid any avoidable problem.