You have found the house you love. You have found the perfect house. It has the right location, the right amount of square footage, a great school district, a large yard for the children, and the right price. But there is one problem: it might be a house that has an old roof. Old roofs can be a major deal breaker when you’re looking to buy a house.
A well-maintained roof can last for 30 years or longer. However, poor installation or low-quality tiles and shingles can lead to a roof being replaced much sooner.
Ask the seller about the age of the roof and check the gutters to ensure that the drainage systems are working properly. Dry rot, which is often caused by poor ventilation, can lead to sagging or crumbling.
Get clear on the Condition of the Roof and What’s Needed
First, be aware that your home won’t come with a new roof unless it was recently built. Every roof is subject to some wear and tear. It will eventually need to be repaired.
It all depends on how old the roof is. Do you want to buy a house with an old roof that is 15 years old? 20-year-old roof? As the roof’s age increases, so will your investment in repairs and maintenance.
A roof’s lifespan can vary depending on its materials. It could last between 25 and 30 years. There are many different types of roofing materials, including metal roofs, asphalt shingles, and composite shingles. Weatherization is a major factor in how often roofs should be replaced.
How can you get all the facts to make informed decisions?
- To inspect the roof’s condition, hire a home inspector
- Ask the homeowner to provide documentation about the last time that the roof was replaced.
- Ask for a second opinion from professionals in roofing
- You can inspect the attic and roof space by yourself
- Get an estimate of the cost of repairs and when they will be required.
NOW THAT YOU KNOW THE CONDITION OF YOUR ROOF, IT’S TIME FOR YOU TO CHOOSE YOUR OPTIONS
You’re not the only one considering an offer on the house. The homeowner will not be as willing to negotiate on price and roof repairs in a seller’s marketplace.
Consider your roof appraisal as a way for you to protect yourself and align your purchase with your goals. It is not a way to force the seller into making repairs prior to you moving in. ).
Do your research before you buy a house with an older roof. You can then weigh your options by comparing the assessment to your goals.
- What length of time do you intend to stay in your new home?
- Are you able to afford roof repairs right away (if necessary)?
- Are you planning to make additions to your house that could impact the roof?
- Would you be willing to make a deal with the seller if the roof’s condition is not ideal?
- What additional repairs are required? How much does it all add up?
HOW TO GET AWAY FROM A HOME WITH AN OLD ROOF: 3 SIGNALS FOR A BAD SITUATION
Sometimes, a roof can be in such bad shape that it is best to let the homeowner make the repairs. These major problems should be discovered during a home inspection. However, we will also discuss the danger signs of a roof that is failing.
THE ROOF IS SAGGING DUE to STRUCTURAL DAMAGE
It’s a good idea to remove the roof from any situation where the structure is in danger. A home buyer may need to make an investment in replacing cracked or damaged roof beams.
PATCHES OF MISSING CHINS OR ALGAE OVERSIZING
Are there any missing shingles or sunlight leaking into the attic space? These are likely to be caused by very old shingles, or other materials that need immediate replacement. Also, be aware of algae and moss growth on exterior singles. Poor ventilation in the attic space can lead to moisture problems that will need further attention.
EXCESSIVE WATER DAMAGE AND STATEMENTS ON INTERIOR WALLS
It is possible that the ceiling or interior walls have been damaged by a roof leak that has not been noticed for a long time. You can check for signs of mildew or softening by rubbing your fingers on any stain.
SHOULD A HOUSE BE BOUGHT WITH A ROOF LEAK?
Roof leaks can be very dangerous. If you are unsure about the severity of the leak, it is best to have a home inspector inspect the house for possible water damage and the root cause.
It may be possible to fix the leak with cosmetic repairs. You may find that the leak is not causing any significant damage. Water may be trapped on the exterior shingles or debris, which could cause a leak through the roof. The gutters should not allow water to flow through the roof. This is unlikely for most slanted roofs but it does happen.
WHAT COULD IT COST YOU?
It can cost a lot to replace a roof. Depending on the size of your home, a new roof could cost anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000
It is not a reason to ask the seller to lower the price just because the roof is older. If the roof isn’t maintained properly, or if there are major problems such as leaks or other issues, you might be able to negotiate.
You will be responsible for the cost of replacing or repairing your roof. This cost should be included in your housing budget.
It doesn’t matter what, you should investigate the subject thoroughly before making a decision to buy a home.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing which offers the best roofers in Clearwater FL! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.
