Ultimate Roof Guide when Buying a New Home

March 8, 2023

You may be contemplating a move to a new property in 2023. At Roofers Birmingham, we acknowledge that inexperienced homeowners or first-time buyers may have difficulty assessing whether the property they intend to purchase is in good condition. During the purchasing process it is critical to thoroughly examine the roof, as a roof in poor repair can significantly impact the sale. To assist home buyers in determining the condition of a roof, our expert roofers in Birmingham have devised a roof checklist. Continue reading to learn more.


The Roof Shape

When inspecting a roof, it's important to pay attention to its shape. Be on the lookout for dips or sagging, especially on flat roofs, as this may indicate an underlying structural issue. It's also crucial to check for gaps or holes in the roof, as they not only make it vulnerable to leaks but also provide access for pests and birds. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your roof is in good condition and avoid potential issues down the line.


The Quality of the Roof Tiles

In the UK, pitched roofs are often covered with roof tiles, which come in different materials such as concrete, slate, or clay. If you're inspecting a home with roof tiles, it's important to look for signs of wear and tear from the ground level. This could include cracks, holes, or missing or slipped tiles. Roofing experts in Birmingham recommend addressing any missing or badly damaged tiles promptly through repair or replacement to avoid further damage.


Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) - Rubber Roofing

EPDM rubber is a common material used to cover flat roofs. However, due to the flat design of these roofs, it can be challenging to assess their condition from the ground. For this reason, it is recommended to have your local "roofers near me" safely inspect the roof. During their inspection, they will look for factors such as pooling water, tears, punctures, blistering, bubbling, and areas where the covering is separating from the building structure. Identifying these issues early on can help prevent further damage to the roof and the building it covers.


Condition of Roof Shingles

Felt is a common material used in the manufacture of roof shingles. However, our team of Roofers in Birmingham advises that shingles are susceptible to tears, rips, mould growth, and unevenness as they age. Fortunately, repairing or replacing shingles is a relatively inexpensive solution to address these issues.


State of Roof Flashing

Roofers Birmingham emphasise that roof flashing is a crucial component used to seal roof joints, including around chimneys, valleys, skylights, and roof edges. To ensure the integrity of the roof, it is important to inspect the condition of the roof flashing for any tears, rips, or splits, as well as making sure that the flashing is securely attached. While this inspection can be done from the ground level, it is recommended to have a professional roofer safely assess the flashing's condition for optimal accuracy.


Inside Roof Space

When viewing a property, it is highly recommended to inspect the internal roof space, provided you can safely access it. Upon inspection, pay close attention to the condition of the timber rafters for signs of rot or mould growth. Additionally, check for softness, discoloration, and cracks. Damaged rafters can pose a significant threat to the building's structural integrity, so it's essential to address any issues as soon as possible.


Gutters and downpipes

During property purchases, it is common for the condition of gutters and downpipes to be overlooked. However, our Roofers in Birmingham advise that a properly functioning gutter system is a crucial component that guides rainwater from the roof to the main drainage network. This helps prevent rainwater from pooling around the building's base, which can lead to foundational and structural damage. Common gutter issues that can arise include blockages, cracks, leaks, gutters pulling away from the brackets, and other related issues. It is important to address these issues promptly to maintain the integrity of your property's structure.


Contact Roofers Birmingham today for professional advice and your free competitive quote

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