Buying a home is a major investment. To make the right decision, many homebuyers prepare a checklist of questions to ask the seller. Most of these may include questions about plumbing, electricity, and HVAC units. However, many homebuyers tend to forget to ask about the roofing system.
The roof is one of the most important parts of any home, especially since it protects from extreme weather conditions. If the roof of your prospective home is nearing the end of its life, you may have to think twice about your investment. Before you commit to your new home, Summit Roofing & Restoration, Inc. recommends asking these four roof-related questions.
1. How Old Is the Roof?
When asking the seller about the roof’s age, be sure to ask for documentation. This way, you have proof of how old the roof is. Depending on the roof material and installation as well as its exposure to extreme weather, a roof can be expected to last from 15 to 50 years. If the roof is fairly old, you need to understand the roof issues you may encounter and how you can prevent them. In addition to that, the age of the roof may also influence the cost of homeowner insurance.
2. Does the Roof Have a Transferable Warranty?
Although the seller may tell you that the roof is new, keep in mind that it can still have problems, including roof material defects or workmanship issues. Not only that but the roof can also be damaged due to unpredictable weather or fire. If roof damage occurs, you need to know whether your new roof is protected by a warranty. It’s also important to note that not all warranties are transferable to the new owner. If it can be transferred, you need to review the roof’s warranty and check its policy on storm damage.
3. Who Installed the Roof?
Consider asking the seller who installed the roof. If the seller is the one who hired the company to install the roof, they can give you the name of the contractor so you can research the contractor’s experience and background. This way, you will be more comfortable with the home you are investing in. However, if the contractor involved in the installation has poor reviews or references, the roof of your potential house may not be the best. To be sure, you may want to get in touch with a reputable contractor to inspect the roof in question.
4. When Was the Roof Last Inspected?
Even if the roof is new, a professional roof inspection is still necessary. There may be hidden underlying roof issues that may eventually shorten the service life of the roof. For instance, hard-to-find leaks can cause rotting and costly repairs beneath the surface. If the roof has not been inspected for a long time, it’s best to have qualified roofers examine the roof. They will assess the condition of the roof and perform repairs if necessary.
Are you in search of contractors for a professional roof inspection? Look no further than Summit Roofing & Restoration, Inc. Our team of roof experts is determined to assist you with your project. For Dyersburg residents, call us at (731) 589-7663; for Atoka residents, at (901) 430-1974; and for Paragould residents, at (870) 736-7663. You may also fill out our online contact form to book an appointment.