Shingles, Nails, and Beyond

Purchasing a new house is exciting. However, because this is a lifetime investment, you want to ensure that you've picked the right property. The roof is one of the components you need to check on in your prospective home. If it's not in good condition, you and your family won't be protected from the elements, and you'll always dread the next big storm or winter blizzard. If you don't want to deal with these headaches, contact a reputable residential roofing contractor. They'll assess the roof's condition in your prospective house and advise you appropriately. Here are three issues they'll check:

Framing, Sheathing, and Tiles

Older homes may have broken tiles on the roof. This may indicate that the frame or sheathing is damaged. Your roof requires sheathing to protect the house from the elements. If it malfunctions, the roof may leak or be vulnerable to the wind. The frame is also a vital component that supports the entire roof structure and keeps everything in place. If it's in poor condition, the roof could collapse. A contractor can assess the condition of these three components and let you know if they need to be repaired. 

Flashings

If the area you intend to buy a house in is prone to hurricanes or other severe weather conditions, you need to have the flashings of your new home assessed. These strips are usually installed around openings, such as where the chimney meets the roofline, to direct water away from these vulnerable areas and prevent leaks. A roofer can find out if they're working correctly and have no gaps or cracks that can allow water to seep in.

Drainage and Gutters

The gutter and drainage system is crucial to directing water away from the home during a storm. If they're damaged, water will pool around the home's foundation and cause significant destruction. It can also promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can lead to health problems for the home's occupants. A professional roofer can inspect the condition of these drainage systems to see if they have debris, leaks, or blockages. If any of these problems are found, ensure they're fixed before you buy the home. 

If you intend to invest in a new home, you need to know the troubles its roof could be having. Residential roofing services can thoroughly inspect this structure and inform you of any potential issues. They can also offer advice on the best course of action to take to rectify them.