When you're on the market for a new home, having a comprehensive understanding of the property you're interested in buying is essential. This is particularly true when it comes to residential roofing systems. Here are a few key factors you'll need to consider before putting in an offer. 

4 Residential Roofing Considerations When Home Buying

1. Age 

Roof replacement is a costly and time-consuming endeavor that homeowners will need to budget and plan for well in advance. During the home buying process, you'll want to ask the current owners and your home inspector about the age of the roofing materials. 

When properly maintained, wood shakes and shingles have an average life span of 15 to 20 years, asphalt shingles can last three decades, and slate, tile, and metal roofing can last up to 50 years. The age and condition of the roof should play into the overall asking price and may provide room for negotiation when it's an older system.

2. Ventilation

While a listing may boast a new residential roofing system, fresh materials will struggle to provide protection when the ventilation is poor. Inspect the ventilation system to ensure there is proper airflow. This will mitigate several risks such as moisture build-up that causes leaks and mold growth, uncomfortable indoor temperatures, peeling paint, a damp attic, or ice dams during the winter. 

3. Gutters and Drainage

A key component of any roofing system is the gutters and downspouts. During rainstorms, you'll depend on this network to allow for the proper flow of moisture away from your home. By ensuring gutters and downspouts are in great condition, leak-free, and unclogged, you can rest easy knowing a property is less likely to experience water damage. 

4. Mold

Mold thrives in damp, dark areas. A visual inspection of an entire roofing system is a must to identify signs of mold because having this growth on shingles can invite pests and will make your materials deteriorate faster. It's best to have a roofing contractor give you a full report on the extent of any mold issues since excessive growth could mean water damage, poor ventilation, attic problems, and unhealthy air quality. 

If you're investing in a new home and you need a residential roofing inspection for added peace of mind, count on Pinnacle Contracting Roofing Siding. Based in Gas City, IN, this family-owned and operated roofing company is known throughout Grant County and the surrounding regions for quality craftsmanship at fair prices. To schedule an appointment, call today at (765) 517-3649. For more information on this roofing contractor's specialties and convenient financing options, visit their website.