The house hunt is on. Before you get too giddy about finding your perfect dream home, you need to evaluate the integrity of the structure. This includes the roof. So, before signing that contract, put down the pen and look for the following signs of a strong roof:

Why is the Roof So Important?

A roof protects the entire structure of your home. If it’s compromised, you’re in for a world of trouble. From costly repairs to complete roof replacements, you don’t want to be surprised in two months’ time when several issues arise.

One of the biggest issues new homeowners face is water damage. Especially in terms of roofing in Burnaby where the rain is nonstop. If water leaks into your roofing system, you’re at risk of the following:

• Mold. Prolonged dampness can promote mold growth. Mold can cause health issues such as throat and eye irritation, nasal stuffiness, skin issues, and severe infections in some cases.
• Structural Issues. When water drips down from your roof, it affects your ceilings, walls, and flooring. Not only does it cause unsightly discolouration, but it can weaken your entire structure, posing a risk to your safety.
• Wood Rot. The last thing you want on your roof beams is rot. When exposed to damp environments, your beams can develop fungal growth that eats away at the wood and compromises the structural integrity. If your potential home has wood rot, you may need to shell out for a whole new roof.

How to Guarantee a Good Roof?

Before buying a home, it’s a wise decision to have the roof inspected by a professional. Here are some problems your Burnaby roofers will be looking for:

1.    Missing or Broken Shingles

Typically, missing or broken roof tiles is not a reason to pass up on your dream home. However, if not repaired, your roof is left vulnerable to water damage. To avoid costly and frustrating leaks down the road, have a professional evaluate the roof beforehand.

If there are missing or damaged shingles, you can request to have this repaired before you sign for the house. As shingle replacements are common for homeowners, roofers advise that you keep spare shingles on hand just in case. This allows for a simple shingle replacement if needed. Bonus if the previous owners already have spare ones for you.

2.    Blocked Gutters

The gutters on your potential home should not be overlooked. A crucial part to your roof’s drainage system, severely blocked or damaged gutters must be addressed. During your inspection, ask your roofers if there’s any debris sitting in the gutters. If there is, this could mean that rather than pouring down your drain spout, water is collecting in the roof.

Blocked gutters are a very simple fix when caught early. All you need to do is pull the debris out with your hand or use a power hose to loosen severe blockages. However, if you think the gutters have been blocked long-term, make sure you inspect your roof for water damage.

3.    Water Stains

Alright, so we addressed water damage above, however, there’s a bit more to it. When water leaks into your ceiling and down the walls, it leaves a water stain. While it’s deceptive, some sellers may opt to paint over obvious signs of water damage to avoid paying the repair fees.

Therefore, a thorough inspection of the roof will determine if any water damage has occurred. So, if you notice a fresh coat of paint has been applied, especially to the top rooms of the house, check for water damage. This isn’t always a sign of deceit but best keep your wits about you just in case.

4.    Age of the Roof

Every roof has an expiry date. Even the most durable, long-lasting materials need to be replaced at some point. Therefore, while proper maintenance and care can prolong a roof’s life, an ageing roof is something you need to know about. On average, roofs last between 20-50 years. Before you make an offer on a house, ask how old the roof is. The older the roof, the more likely it’ll need repairs, maybe even a full roof replacement.

Need Roof Inspections or Repairs?

If you’re considering putting an offer in on a new home, our team at Canuck Roofing can provide an honest, thorough account of the roof’s health. To ensure you’re not unknowingly signing up for thousands of dollars of roof repairs, reach out today to book your roof inspection.