Are you thinking of buying a fixer-upper or an older home that needs a new roof? Older existing homes are notorious for needing major and minor repairs, and if the home inspection reveals that the current roof is ready to be replaced, what should you do? Here at Perry Roofing, we want you to know your options when it comes to buying a home that needs a new roof.
How to Know if the Roof Needs to be Replaced
Since the roof is part of the envelope of your home and helps keep the weather out, you need to know a few things about the home’s roof before you buy, including the signs that indicate it needs to be replaced.
1. It’s age
Roofs are only designed to last a specific amount of time. While that time changes, depending on the roofing materials used, most roofs last between 15 and 30 years with an average useful life of 20 years. If the roof is nearing the 20-year mark, it’s time to get an inspection to determine if any repairs need to be made and how many years the roof may have left.
2. The type of roofing system
The most common types of residential roofs include asphalt shingle, metal, clay tiles, and stone-coated steel.
- Asphalt Shingle – Most common type of roofing system. Lasts between 15 and 30 years.
- Metal – Extremely popular and durable. Though, slightly more expensive than shingle. Lasts between 40 and 70 years.
- Clay Tiles – Extremely durable and typically last between 50 and 100 years.
- Stone Coated Steel – Extremely durable and typically last between 40 and 70 years. Able to mimic the look of tile without the added weight.
3. If the roof needs to be replaced immediately
An inspection from an experienced roofing company, like Perry Roofing, can tell you if the roof needs to be replaced immediately. Signs that the roof needs to be replaced include sunken areas, visible damage and shingles that are curling, missing or losing their granules. You may also need a new roof if you spot water damage on the ceiling inside the home.
4. Any other repairs that the roof may need
The tiles and metal panels of the roof can last longer than other components on the roof. This means that your new-to-you home’s flashing, drip edges, eaves and/or vents may need to be repaired or replaced before the primary material. A qualified roofing contractor can tell you if certain components need to be replaced rather than the entire roofing system.
What to Do if Your Dream Home Needs a New Roof
New roofs are not cheap. New roofs typically cost between $7,000 and $15,000 with the average cost being about $12,000. That’s not cheap and represents an immediate major investment in your newly purchased home, so what can you do?
1. Have the Seller Replace the Roof or Split the Cost with the Seller
One option for replacing the roof on an existing home is to have the seller replace the roof as part of the contingency for buying the home. If you really like and want the home, you can also opt to split the cost of the new roof with the current homeowner.
2. Lower Your Bid by the Cost of the New Roof
Some prospective buyers choose to lower their bid by the cost of the new roof. This means that if you were going to offer $300,000 for the home and the new roof costs $8,000, you’d make a bid for $292,000.
Getting a New Roof with Perry Roofing
If your current or new-to-you home needs a new roof, look no further than Perry Roofing. We install, repair and maintain asphalt shingle, stone-coated steel and tile roofs. To learn more about our roofing services, contact us today at 352-373-2724.