Sachin

When people go house hunting, they usually focus on the rooms, kitchen, and yard but forget to check what's on top protecting everything inside. The roof is not only an important part of a home but one of its most expensive components. Any future issues with the roof structure can cost you thousands of dollars.

Here is a short guide on what to look for in a roof when buying a house.

• Roof exterior

Stand across the street and give the roof a quick look. Are there missing shingles? Is there mold growth? Can you see worn spots or curled edges? If you find such defects, then the roof is probably very old and not properly maintained. Ask the previous owner about the lifespan of the roof and what repairs have been done.

• Roof ventilation

What's under the roof is just as important as what's on top. The ventilation system is a good measuring point of how healthy a roof is. Although the roof itself may be relatively new, a worn out ventilation system can cause some roof issues later on.

A good ventilation system is able to let sunlight and air come in easily, which can help decrease the level of moisture inside the home and reduce energy consumption. A poor ventilation system can lead to mold, water damage, warped roof, and a host of other problems.

• Roof water systems

The roof drainage system has three components: downspouts, gutters, and drainage pipes. Check the condition of all three and make sure they are properly carrying water away from the roof.

Look for loose asphalt shingle grains in the gutters. These tiny grains protect the shingles against the sun's rays. If you find shingle grains in the gutter, it could mean that the shingles are worn out.

Check the pipes that run along the roof as well as downspouts on the side. They should be releasing rainwater into storm wells and not right onto the ground which could leak to your foundation.

Search for evidence of flooding or excessive water pooling near the downspouts. The storm wells might not be draining properly due to dirt or inappropriate size. However, although you can go up the roof and do the inspection yourself, it is best to hire a roofing contractor for the job. Professional roofers know what to look for and how to fix it.

• Roof leaks

A leaking roof can cause a lot of damage. It can destroy walls, soak furniture, and ruin floors. Most leaks happen around chimneys, valleys, creases, shingles, and plumbing vents. It can be difficult to track where water is leaking from, so it is important to hire a professional roof contractor to find that leak and fix it.

• Roof mold

Mold is dangerous. Not only will it destroy your home, but it may also cause health problems for its inhabitants as well. Mold can be white, green, or black, but some are hidden and difficult to detect.

Where there is water, then there is the possibility of mold growth. Again, check the roof pipes and gutter systems all around the house. If a leak is not fixed right away, mold can grow back.

Contact Your Trusted Roofing Contractor

Only a professional can find and eradicate molds in tiny gaps. Hire a professional roofing company to inspect the house and provide you with a complete report. Make sure the roof is in good condition before you move in to your new home.

Written by True Son Exteriors, the best contractor for roofing in Columbia, MO.