Looking for the perfect house? Before signing on the dotted line for the home of your dreams, fully educating yourself about the condition of the home’s roof is essential for making a smart decision about one of life’s biggest purchases. The roofers at AVA Roofing in Buffalo strongly recommend educating yourself about what to look for when purchasing a new home before you buy. By asking the right questions, you’ll feel empowered in the home search process.
Here are three of the most important roofing questions new homebuyers should ask:
How old is the roof?
Most roofs last anywhere from 15 years to 50 years, which is why it’s important to ask about a roof’s projected lifespan. Different roofs require varying degrees of upkeep, and the age of a roof when you buy a home will impact how much maintenance it will need moving forward. If the roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, you’ll need to plan ahead and budget accordingly for a new installation in the near future. In some cases, you may be able to negotiate a lower price for a home with an old roof.
What type of roof is it?
Knowing the type of roofing material used will help you understand how durable your rooftop will be in handling certain weather elements. While standard asphalt shingles tend to be most common, there are other newer roofing materials that have emerged in recent years. Your roof’s material will often impact its lifespan, so having this insight will be helpful as potential repairs or inspections are needed.
How well are the walls and attic insulated?
Though often overlooked, the quality of insulation within a home should always be considered. Proper insulation prevents leakage, water damage, mold and ventilation problems that can be very damaging to both the roof and the home at large. Poor insulation can also cause drafty rooms, frozen pipes, and build-up of moisture which can lead to other major issues. It’s best to have an experienced roofing professional inspect the home’s insulation and make you aware of any concerns.
Getting answers to the questions above is key to feeling confident about the purchase of your new home! As a new homebuyer, you’ll be well educated about your roof and how to maintain it for years to come.
If you’re a new homebuyer with roofing questions or concerns, the roofers at AVA Roofing in Buffalo, NY are always available to assist with your roofing needs. Get in touch today and learn how we can help!