When you are considering purchasing a home, you want to make sure that the roof is in good condition,
as it is one of the most expensive features of your home and it also protects you from the elements.
One of the first things to look at when purchasing a home is look at the roof. How old is the roof? How
many layers of material are on the roof? Is the roof mold free? You can stand back from the home and
take a look at the roof and look at a few things as well.
You want to make sure that the roof is completely lying flat and that there are no edges curling or any
bulges. Look for any missing shingles or any worn out spots. If you do see these deformities, it does
indicate that the roof age is older and could possibly have had repairs. You should ask the homeowner
or your home inspector the life expectancy of the roof. If they are unable to give you that answer you
should contact your roofing company for a walk over and they can give you an idea of the life
expectancy of the roof as well.
You also want to make sure you have a good ventilation system for your roof. If you do not have the
proper ventilation system on your roof, you will face some pretty big issues down the road.
With ventilation you want to make sure that sunlight and air comes into the attic easily. Do not neglect
these 2 main things.
Having poor ventilation can cause a number of problems. It can help develop mold in your attic, early
deterioration of your roof sheathing boards, early deterioration of your shingles as well.
You should also check out the gutters. Making sure that the gutters are cleaned out and have proper
drainage with the downspouts. Make sure that the gutter system is not full of granules from the
shingles. This is also a sign of an aged roof.
Mold can grow on your shingles as well as under your shingles. There are many different colors and
shapes of mold, dark, white, green and black.
Some molds are noticeable and can be severe and rotten, and some are hidden and can’t be easily seen.
Mold can form under floors and roofs, between walls and in less visible places as well. Mold does its
best in water soaked material, such as roofs and gutters. It can contaminate your walls of the house.
One of the main reasons mold can develop is from a poor ventilation system and water leaks and it has a
tendency of happening more in the hotter climates.
Having mold on the roof is not good for your home. It affects the look but can cause an odor that can
make it hard to live in. Additionally there are health risks as well.
Having an inspector with an infra-red camera will help detect any leaks as well.