Purchasing the right roof in Grey Bruce

Posted Nov. 18th 2011 under General

Yes, you are putting an offer on the cute little house in the country but important questions need to be asked. What's so important about a roof? Taking a closer look can reveal many different aspects than at first glance and may not reveal everything you need to see. Having knowledge of installing and replacing roofs first hand has given me a huge perspective of things to try and look at for buyers and sellers. No, I'm not a house inspector I just know thing or two about roofs.

A few questions you need to ask:

1. What is the current roof covered with?
2. How many layers are there?
3. What is the condition of the existing roof?
4. How many vents are there?
5. How many dormers or valleys are there?
6. What do you mean by a 4/12?
7. Does this roof work for the climate?
8. Does the existing roof work for the load weight of the existing structure?

We want our roofs to be long lasting and keep the weather elements from other parts of our home. We don't want the cost of replacing a roof on a regular basis. The roof structure is very important. Without a good roof, your home or cottage is being left to nature's furry friends or critters.

Take for example shingles. Shingles come in many different shapes and styles. But what is the difference in a 20 year versus a lifetime shingle. For the little difference in cost, go with a 40 year or life time shingle. You will also be saving the landfill sites with disposal of shingles and your pocket book of replacing the shingles.

Never cover up the existing shingle roof with another shingle roof. The second layer does not rectify the underlying hidden defects. Ever wonder why there are dips in the roof? When replacing your roof with a new shingle roof, remove the existing shingles. This will show you if there are problems with your sheeting and what is installed under the shingles. Ice water, drip edge, also known as eve guard, step flashing valleys, tar paper, roof vents versus ridge vents and calking. A proper installed roof will last longer and prevent further damage to other components of your home.

If the property you are buying or selling is going to need a new roof in the next five years, obtain 3 written quotes prior to listing or purchasing.

With so many choices and so much to understand about roofs, how can a person ever get it all straight? If you have questions on a roof, call your local roofing contracting during your house inspection to answer your questions.

As a real estate professional when it doubt ask a roofing professional.