Owning a home of your own is one of the biggest dreams you can achieve in your lifetime, and purchasing your first home can be a wonderful feeling. However, the process of purchasing the property can be hectic.
When you are buying a home, there are many things to take into consideration. For example, you want to ensure the roof is in good shape and lasts for years. You also want to know whether the seller has renovated areas that may affect your ability to sell or rent out the house. One question that constantly comes up involves the condition of the current roofing system.
Roofing Material
As a New Jersey first time home buyer, the first thing you need to consider is the roof of your home. A roof protects your home from harsh weather conditions, and a roof that is in good condition will keep your home protected for years to come. The first thing you need to do when inspecting your roof’s condition is to ensure that the materials used are of high quality.
As the roofing industry continues to evolve, there are more quality roofing materials for homeowners to choose from. As a first-time buyer, this will be one of the most important decisions you make. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most popular roofing materials that homeowners can choose from:
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material throughout the United States, and they are easy to install and repair. They’re also one of the least expensive options when compared to other popular roofing materials. They’re made from asphalt and have a granular texture that helps them withstand wind and rain. Asphalt shingles are available in 3 types, based on their quality. To learn more, you can also check out our blog on how to choose the right asphalt shingle.
Clay Tiles
These are made from clay tiles that are baked in an oven until they’re hard enough to use as a roofing material. Clay tile roofs can last for over 100 years if they are properly maintained, but they tend to be more expensive than other options because each tile is cut individually from clay blocks.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are weatherproof, durable, and virtually maintenance-free. They have been around for many years, and they have proven to be one of the best roofing materials available. The popularity of metal roofs is constantly increasing because of the benefits associated with installing a new metal roof. Metal roofs are typically made from galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper, making them a durable and long-lasting option.
Roof’s Age
No matter which roofing material you install on the home that you are buying, you should be aware that different roofing materials have different lifespans. When you’re looking at houses for sale, you should ask about the age of the current roof. Some roofs last longer than others; for example, slate shingles typically last longer than asphalt shingles. If you need to install a new roof on your home, you will want to get one that will last as long as possible.
Your roof’s age can tell you a lot about how well-maintained your home has been.
For example, If the roof is older than 15-20 years, you may want to factor it into the cost of the home. This is because you might be required to replace your roof shortly after purchasing the home.
Why Should You Choose A Home With A New Roof?
A house that has a relatively new roof installed may come at an extra cost, but it will benefit you in the long run. A newer roof will likely last longer and be more energy efficient, which will save you money on utility bills over time and help protect your investment in your home. Here are some of the roofing materials with their average lifespans:
Asphalt Shingle: 15-30 years
Metal Roof: 50-60 years
Tile Roof: 40-50 years
Slate Roof: 70-80 years
Check The Roof’s Condition
The age and the condition of your roof are interrelated factors that can affect your decision as a first-time buyer. You should also consider whether or not any significant repairs need to be done before you move in, and you don’t want to be stuck paying for something that should have already been taken care of!
To help you determine if your roof is in good condition, here are some things to look for:
- Is there any mold or mildew around the vents or chimney? If the answer is yes, this could indicate a leaky roof and an increased risk of water damage throughout the home.
- Are there cracks in the shingles? Cracks indicate that UV rays or other weather conditions have damaged the roof.
- Does your home smell like mildew? If so, this could mean that there’s moisture trapped inside due to poor ventilation.
- Is the roof flashing installed correctly?
You can ask your realtor for information about any recent repairs or maintenance performed on the property and what type of materials were used.
Check The Attic Area
Most inspectors will only inspect the roof from the outside. You should make sure that you do not make this mistake when you look for homes. Checking the interior of the home is also crucial, and this can tell us about the shape of the house and whether it will need repairs in the future.
While inspecting the roof will give you an idea about the quality of the roofing materials, checking the attic of the home will help determine the condition of the roof deck and insulation. You should also ensure that the home is properly ventilated. Often when the roof deck is compromised, and the attic is not ventilated, it can lead to problems such as wood rot as well as mold and mildew growth. These can cause serious problems throughout your home, and can even be harmful to your health.
Take A Look At The Surrounding Areas
The first thing to consider when buying a home is the location. You may be ready to buy, but are you buying in an area where you want to live?
Look at the surrounding areas and decide if they meet your needs. For example, if you’re looking for a quiet neighborhood with friendly neighbors, then you may want to look for one that is located away from busy streets or traffic. You should take note of any tall trees near your home, as they can fall and damage your property during the storm season in New Jersey. Falling branches and debris can slowly deteriorate your roof, and they can even cause leaks over time. You should check whether the trees in the area are regularly trimmed and maintained, or if this is something your will have to do once you purchase the home.
Check That The Gutters Are Working Properly
When you inspect your new home, take a moment to check the gutters and downspouts.
This is an essential step to take as your gutters are one of the most critical parts of your roof. If your gutters are not working properly, you could be in for some expensive problems in the future. Gutters that are clogged with leaves, debris, or other objects will not work properly, and water may leak into the walls of your home or even damage your roof system.
Make sure that each gutter is free from obstructions and that any downspouts are draining properly as well.
Choose Good Home Insurance
When you buy your first home, it’s important to have good insurance coverage that protects you against any losses or damages. The best way to do this is by purchasing a policy from an experienced agent who can help you choose the right amount of coverage for your needs and budget.
The best way to find the right insurance agent is by talking with friends and family members who have lived in the area for some time, as well as asking real estate agents and financial advisors.
Northkit Roofing Is Here To Help
Being a first-time home buyer in New Jersey is not easy. The city is filled with some beautiful homes, but choosing a home that fits your budget and your needs can be difficult. If you take note of the things we have explained above, you will be able to find a home with a strong roof that won’t need to be replaced for years.
If you are still confused and are looking for professional help, then look no further than the team of Northkit Roofing. We are one of the best residential roofing companies in the South Jersey area.
We have a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals that can assist you once you have purchased your new home. We can also help you find options for financing your roofing project. Contact us today at (973)-396-7416 to learn more about the roofing and home exterior services we offer.
