The roof is one of the most expensive features of a home, whether you’re looking to buy a home or sell your current home.
How Old is the Roof?
Roofs in Washington are replaced on average every 12-17 years. How old is the roof that is currently on the home? Do the simple match of the install date and recognize that asphalt roofs don’t have a long lifespan.
Look out for worn out spots and see if any shingles are missing. If you see such deformities in the roof then it indicates that the roof is quite old. You need to ask the homeowner about the lifespan of the roof and if it has a transferable warranty available.
One of the most important things to look for in a roof is to check if it’s mold-free. Make sure the roof is perfectly flat and there are no curling edges or bulges.
Good Ventilation System
Granule Loss in Shingles = end of shingle lifespan
Granule loss in shingles are the first sign you will be in need of a new roof. Downspouts, gutters and valleys are important to look at. Look for granules thoroughly because the small grains that coat shingles are responsible for shielding them from destructive UV rays.
Look for Cracks and Leaks
Leaking harms your interior walls, your furniture and paint on the walls. Once the leaking begins, it is very difficult to track the source of the leak, which is quite frustrating. The leak is not always where it seems.
Leakage mostly happens in valleys, plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys. You will need professionals to find a leak and provide roof repairs.
Mold on the Roof
Stains and moss can form between walls, under floors and roofs or in less visible spots. Mildew does best in water-drenched materials such as roofs having water pipes and gutter systems all around the house. Mildew can contaminate the walls and the paint of the house. The main reasons for mildew developing is poor ventilation system and stagnant water or roof leaks.
Most importantly mildew can continue growing and become a sponge for more growth and water damming. Roof cleanings can take care of this issue but when granule loss occurs from a roof cleaning you will be reducing the life span even more.
Downspouts on roof decks?
Downpipes releasing onto roof decks is an easy way to create a leak. Instead make sure downspouts consolidate water directly into one another and into your curtain drain system and not right onto the ground ruining your foundation or on the roof.
Bad
Bad
Good (& Color matching downspout to hide the gross standard) white
