Roof Essentials for First-Time Homeowners

“Being a new homeowner is an exhilarating experience, but also one that comes with a myriad of responsibilities,” said Wendy Cline, owner of J&B Construction. “A crucial obligation that should be at the top of a prospective homeowner’s checklist involves ensuring that the roof of the home is structurally sound and is being maintained correctly.” This includes roof essentials like having it professionally inspected, knowing how to identify potential problems, evaluating roofing materials, and familiarizing yourself with routine maintenance.

For the sake of being proactive, prospective homebuyers should seek out the expertise of a licensed roofing contractor before purchasing a home. Although it’s highly beneficial to consult a home inspector, it’s best to have a roofing contractor evaluate the roof for possible concerns or damage. “Even if you have already purchased the home, it’s well worth it to have a roofing professional conduct a comprehensive roof inspection so that any pain points can be taken care of before they become worse or beyond repair,” Wendy said.

It’s especially helpful to be able to accurately detect roofing problems on your own as this practice can save you both time and money. “The key is to note specific areas that are exceptionally prone to wear and tear on almost all roofing types, including the chimney, the gutter system, and the shingles,” said Wendy.

Often times, the flashing around a chimney will weaken, enabling precipitation to seep into the home. If a home’s gutter system is in poor shape, it has the potential to damage the roof, particularly in winter when ice dams can form. “So be sure the gutters are clean and be on the lookout for any portions of the gutter system that are plugged, cracked, broken, or leaking water,” she said.

Other telltale signs of a possible roofing problem include missing shingles, which is usually indicative of an aging roof, or darkened areas on the roof, which could suggest the presence of a leak. “Identifying these problems early, having them skillfully assessed, and addressing them accordingly are imperative if you want to avoid major damage down the road,” Wendy said. Remember, if it’s not physically feasible for you to inspect the roof on your own, or if you simply would like the opinion of a professional, seek out a licensed roofing contractor to perform a roof inspection.

If it’s been determined that roof replacement is necessary, there is an array of roofing materials to choose from, including wood, tile, metal, polymer, copper, and asphalt, with asphalt shingles being the most popular choice. “The three biggest factors to consider when selecting a roofing material is your home’s architectural design, weather conditions, and budget,” she said.

For instance, it’s important to evaluate a roofing material’s color and texture in order to select one that best compliments the style of the home because the roof has a major impact on a home’s curb appeal. As for weather and roofing materials, the decision should ultimately be based on the home’s location in terms of climate plus personal preference. “As an example, a roof exposed to a considerable amount of sunlight may call for a green or energy saving material such as slate and clay. Alternatively, if you are concerned about protecting your home from severe weather, a material such as metal with a high wind resistance rating would be a viable option,” Wendy said.

“A home’s roof does require periodic maintenance in order to maximize its life expectancy and protect your investment,” she said. It’s necessary to clean the gutters and it’s recommended this be done twice annually, once in the spring and again in the fall. This includes examining the downspouts and ensuring they are clear of any waste matter. It’s also wise to trim or cut back tree branches or plants that extend over your roof, as debris from flora can not only clog a home’s gutter system, but it can damage the roof as well.

“Although being first time homeowners and navigating through the sea of new responsibilities can feel overwhelming, it helps to be proactive when possible and stay on top of any issues that do arise, particularly roof essentials since your roof is a fundamental element of your home’s building envelope,” Wendy said. “So, don’t delay when it comes to having your roof professionally inspected, addressing prospective problems, and conducting regular maintenance.”