Don't Take The Risk Of Buying Without A Roof Inspection
With increasing competition among buyers in the property market, there is often a temptation to secure a deal by speeding things up and skipping various steps, such as roof inspections. Buying a home is one of the biggest and most important investments you can make. It’s essential to be aware of the risks and additional costs you would be burdened with if there are any hidden problems or dangers that require professional fixes.
Listed here are the kinds of serious issues you need to be aware of, and which a professional roof inspection can identify:
Table of contents:
A sagging roof
A roof that is sagging can be hard to spot, particularly if the sag is in its early stages. It’s a serious problem as it could lead to a ceiling collapse and requires a professional inspector who knows what to look for.
Gutters clogged with weeds, dirt, and leaves
If weeds have been left to grow in a roof’s gutters, this causes water overflow, leading to rusted gutters, breaks, and leaks. A build-up of dirt and fallen leaves adds to the problem. In many cases, a thorough cleanout will suffice, however, if the problem is more severe, it will require repairs, and in some cases, the replacement of the whole gutter.
Damaged roof trusses
The roof truss provides the strength and stability of the roof, supporting its weight and shape. If the truss has suffered deterioration, or its installation was faulty, then this can endanger the structure of the home and the safety of your family.
Roof storage
The internal area between the roof and the ceiling is not designed for the storage of household items. If it has been used for this, the ceiling’s suspension could have been weakened, putting it at risk of collapse.
Roof mortar repairs
Repairs to a roof’s mortar are required from time to time. If they have not been completed to professional standards, this can cause water leakage to the cavity, leading to a deterioration of the roof truss.
Deflected gang nail plates
The roof’s timber trusses are joined by the gang nail plate. In the event of the plate becoming deflected, this will lead to the failure of the truss, putting the whole roof at great risk. Should an inspection identify this problem, it requires immediate repair.
Storm damage
An inspector looks for any missing or damaged tiles, shingles, or panels; all common signs of Townsville storm damage, and the flying debris from intense winds. Dents and cracks can cause water to pool, leading to rust and leaks.
Downpipes and stormwater drains
It’s important your downpipes aren’t loosening and that the stormwater pipes aren’t blocked. You don’t want to move into your dream home and have to deal with complications like these at the first big downpour or storm.
Benefits of an inspection
Being aware of these roofing problems helps your decision-making process. You may decide this isn’t the right purchase for you. You’re certainly in a position to raise any concerns with the seller and ask the seller to have the necessary repairs done. Alternatively, negotiate a discount to cover the costs of arranging the repairs or reroofing yourself.
Get in touch
Give us a call on 07 4779 7722 at Top To Bottom Plumbing if you’d like a pre-purchase roof inspection in Townsville, or get a quote. Our professional roof inspectors can give you peace of mind and provide helpful tips and advice.
