Buying a home is a significant investment that requires careful consideration. Apart from the aesthetics of the property, you also want to check out its features first before making a decision. You’ll want to make sure the plumbing lines, electrical connections and home comfort systems are in top condition. However, one important thing you shouldn’t overlook is the state of that property’s roofing system. Is it still in good condition, or is it falling apart?
Twin Cities Siding and Roofing takes a look here at the types of questions that you want to be answered by the seller or real estate agent regarding the roof of the home you’re looking to buy.
The Roofing Warranty
A solid roofing system easily attracts many buyers who want a home that’s practically ready to move into immediately. It reassures them that they won’t have to worry about leaks and other issues for many years. But if the home you’re interested in has a newly installed roof, be sure to ask if it comes with a solid warranty that covers manufacturing defects and poor craftsmanship. Is it transferable as well? If so, then you can rest easy knowing that the roof is still covered by the existing warranty even after you’ve made the purchase.
The Renovation History
When inspecting the home you’re keen on purchasing, ask about its roofing history so the seller can disclose any known damage or defects. It helps to be aware of the roof’s repair history because you’ll be factoring in the additional repair costs when negotiating a price for your new home. Knowing the total cost of the repairs and maintenance can also help you avoid undertaking cost-prohibitive issues upon purchase, such as additional repairs or even a replacement.
The Roof’s Age
Your roof’s serviceable life can vary depending on the quality of the materials used and the workmanship involved during its installation. As such, you need to check when the roof was originally installed along with what materials were used to determine how much you’ll need to spend on repairs. You can also have it checked by a professional roofer so you get a detailed report of its condition. If it’s an asphalt shingle roof, it can typically last around 20 to 25 years with routine maintenance. Of course, other materials such as metal or slate can last almost three times longer.
Twin Cities Siding and Roofing specializes in siding repair and replacement, but if you’re in need of any roof-related services, our team will be more than happy to fill that role. Call us at (651) 967-0873, or fill out our convenient contact form to get started. We serve homeowners in and around Minneapolis and St. Paul.
