Homeownership is one of the most exciting parts of your adult life. But it also provides a lot of responsibility. Among other things, you have a yard to landscape, a sidewalk to clear, and a roof to maintain. Making sure the roof over your head is in good shape is an important part of owning a home.
We’re going to explain what you as a new homeowner should know about your roof so that you know how to maintain it.
What to Know About a Roof Before Buying a Home
There are a couple of things you should know as a soon-to-be homeowner before buying a home.
Get Your Roof Inspected
Your home inspector most likely won’t climb up onto your roof during the home inspection. Be sure to have a licensed roofing contractor inspect the roof prior to purchasing a home. If your roof wasn’t inspected prior to the purchase, you should still have it inspected. A post-purchase roof inspection will make you aware of any issues you should take care of before they become larger problems.
Hire A Reputable Roofing Contractor
Homeowners can get burned if they work with an unreliable contractor. Before hiring someone, be sure to get their license number and ask whether they guarantee their work.
What New Homeowners Should Know About Their Roof After Buying Their Home
Here is a list of things you should know as a new homeowner after you’ve purchased your home.
Choose the Best Roofing Option
When re-roofing your home there are plenty of roofing options to choose from, but you want to choose what’s best for you and your home. A reputable roofing contractor will help you select a roofing material that fits the style of your home, is appropriate for your where you live, and works within your budget.
Monitor Potential Trouble Areas
Many homeowners love the natural light provided by skylights, but they are potential trouble spots for your roof. Chimneys can also create a problem if not monitored. Flashing around these areas can loosen and allow water in. But look closely when you’re inspecting a skylight – don’t mistake condensation for a leaking skylight.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
You want to make sure your roof gets regular maintenance. This includes things like clearing out your gutters twice a year, making sure the downspouts are free of debris and removing overhanging limbs that could fall and damage your roof. Look for loose or missing shingles or dark spots which could indicate a leak.
Schedule Repairs Promptly
If you notice a problem with your roof, call a professional roofer right away. Delaying the repair could lead to an even bigger problem and a more costly repair.
Realize Your Roof Has an Expiration Date
On average, a roof must be replaced every few decades. The lifespan of a roof varies based on the roofing material and how well it has been maintained. Some roofs will require replacement after 15 years, while others can last for many more years. But regular maintenance will ensure you get as much life out of it as possible.
Before purchasing your home, ask the previous owners about its age, recent repairs, and any warranty information (recent repairs often come with transferable warranties).
Keep Your Roofer’s Number Handy
Roofing problems can arise at any time of the year. You want to make sure you have a trusted roofing contractor to depend on at a moment’s notice.
If you live in central Iowa, you can trust JB Roofing & Gutters with all your residential roofing needs. We’re always just a phone call away and we’re committed to providing first-rate roofing services, from inspections and repairs to full roof replacements.
If you’re a new homeowner (or looking to buy a home) and have questions about what new homeowners should know about roofs, we would be happy to answer any questions. You can give us a call at 515-554-1964.
Regular roof maintenance helps you detect and address minor issues before they become expensive emergencies. As a new homeowner, follow these 8 simple steps to improve the longevity of your home’s roof.
About the Author
Joe Burkhart, the driving force behind JB Roofing, has been a trusted roofing expert in Ankeny, IA, since 2006. Joe’s passion for quality craftsmanship and personalized service comes from over 20 years of hands-on experience, starting his journey in the roofing industry back in the early 1990s. JB Roofing is more than just a business to Joe—it’s a reflection of his commitment to providing reliable, long-lasting roofs that protect homes and families across Iowa.
