Roof damage is a deal breaker for many prospective home-buyers. That’s because most are looking for something in excellent condition, not something in need of a fix. Should you buy a home with a damaged roof? There are several essential questions you can ask to help you make your decision. And if you have any other questions, feel free to call the knowledgeable team at Elite Remodeling Services today at (904) 657-8383.

Questions to Ask About the Roof Before You Buy

How Old is the Roof?

Is this roof near the end of its life, or are there more significant structural problems at play? To answer these questions, you will need to know what materials were used to construct the roof. The composition will say a lot about the age of the home as well as the weather and climate of the locale.

According to Roofing Calculator, 95% of residential roofs are composed of asphalt shingles. This statistic is most likely because asphalt shingles are the cheapest option available. Unfortunately, they only last 20 to 30 years.

Other roofing materials have longer lifespans. A concrete tile roof will last 35 to 50 years while metal shingles or panels will last 40 to 70 years. And a clay roof can top out at a whopping 100 years.

Knowing the roofing material can say a lot about the age of the roof and the subsequent damage. For instance, a functional-but-worn 20-year shingle roof is less concerning than a recently-installed rubber roof with significant discoloration.

What is the Extent of the Damage?

The physical condition of the roof is the first factor to consider when evaluating whether or not you want to purchase the home. Do you see curled or deteriorated shingles? Are some missing entirely? Is there discoloration or patchiness? Are you finding holes, gaps, or signs of leaks?

What is even more important than the exterior of the roof is any underlying damage, however.
The potential water damage to a home’s interior can far exceed the cost of replacing a roof. Structural repairs can quickly soar into the tens of thousands. That is why you are only scratching the surface—literally—when you merely inspect the top of the roof.

Check the attic and ask yourself the following questions: Is there visible mold or mildew? Is the air dry or humid? Is there proper ventilation and airflow? Are there pools of water beneath cracks or holes in the roof? Has any of the electrical wiring been compromised? What are the odds of a fire or shock hazard? Is there wood rot? Is the structural integrity of the home still intact?

Will the Seller Give You a Discount?

Determining the level of roof damage will help you to estimate the cost of repairs. And that estimation will provide you a figure to work with when you negotiate an offer. If they offer a substantial discount for the damaged roof—one that will cover the cost of repairs—the decision to buy becomes easier. If the buyer refuses to budge, you might have to walk away from it.

It is critical to keep in mind that signs of a deteriorating roof may be an indication of damage, neglect, or disrepair elsewhere in the house. If the seller has obviously not been taking care of their roof, it is possible they are equally careless with other household maintenance. Make sure to be extra thorough when examining the interior of the home for additional red flags.

Final Thoughts

Asking yourself these questions will help you determine if the roof—and thus the home—would be right for you. Take your time to evaluate the structure and potential repair costs. That way, you can be confident in the choice you make, no matter what. And feel free to give the roofing experts at Elite Remodeling Services a call at (904) 657-8383. We’d be happy to talk roofs with you!