As the fall market heats up, now is the time to know some basic things to look for on your roof! An inspector will help with some analysis, but many are not willing to get on a roof, and there are things you as a home-buyer can spot too.
Age:
The age of the roof may be disclosed, but the seller may also not be aware of the date of the roof’s last replacement. Some items to help diagnose the age of the roof include items like visible algae and algae spots, curled shingle edges, visible deformities, worn spots and areas of missing granules, and missing shingles. Should any of these items be visible from a standing position on the lawn or street, it is an indicator that the roof could need replacement.
Material Type:
Some roofing materials like metal and asphalt shingles can last a generation or more. Other roofing material types like outdated rubber shingles, weathered cedar shake,and more may be a sign you will need to replace the roof upon purchase.
Roofing Ventilation System:
This is an area where you will need an expert’s opinion asall homes are vastly different, but it’s important to be aware of how your roof and attic allow air in and ventilation to let your roof breathe.
Be sure to check with the HOA to see what kind of roofing materials are required in your neighborhood! If you have to replace a cedar shake roof or another specific kind of asphalt shingle. Costs can very widely from material to material.
Stormwater System:
Your stormwater system involves downspouts, gutters, and drainage pipes. Are they installed on the house? Do they appear to direct water away from the foundation? You will want to ensure water runoff is directed away from the house to prevent lasting issues with the home. This is also a great time to check for Gutter Guards to ensure you won’t need to regularly get on the roof to clean gutters. Especially important for 3 story homes or homes with walk-out basements in the back where gutters are particularly difficult to reach.
Leaks and Breaks:
The truest sign of issues with your attic is to see potential leakage spots under roof-lined rooms and attics of the home. Signs like sagging drywall, discoloration, are often an indicator of a roofing issue and typically a sure sign a roof needs to be replaced.
Are You Ready to Buy?
When purchasing a home in Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, or the surrounding areas, don’t let a beautiful interior become the only focus. While it’s important to love the way the house looks inside, the outside must also be in good shape. The roof, in particular, should become a priority.Fortunately, by using the helpful information above and getting a roof professionally inspected by a licensed inspector, and having Tredegar Construction on speed dial, you can buy with confidence and fewer surprises in your future!
Our service areas: Tredegar Construction provides Tredegar Construction installs asphalt shingle roofing, TPO membrane roofing, and silicone roof coating, siding, crawl space solutions, spray foam, window and gutter replacement services in the Richmond, Virginia metro area and surrounding counties of Ashland, Charles City County, Chester, Chesterfield County, City of Richmond, Colonial Heights, Goochland County, Hanover County, Henrico County, Hopewell, King William County, New Kent County, Petersburg, Powhatan County and more! We also serve Midlothian, Short Pump, Petersburg, Bon Air, Mechanicsville, Manchester, Tuckahoe, Near West End, Manakin Sabot, Varina, Powhatan, Oilville, Ashland, Colonial Heights, Fort Lee, Museum District, Church Hill, Fan District, Bon Air, Forest Hill, Bellevue, Northside, Ginter Park, Moseley, Glen Allen, Atlee, Laurel, Rockville, Doswell, and more. Don't see your area listed? Reach out! We may serve you!
