By Emma Sturgis
When you move into a new home, there are a lot of things to consider. From painting walls and changing out light fixtures to rearranging furniture and decorating for the season, there is almost always something to do. But one thing that may not be at the top of your list is roof repair. Unfortunately, roof repairs may be necessary when you move in, especially if the previous homeowners didn’t maintain the roof properly—or if it was a while since they had it inspected. Here’s why you might need to repair your roof after moving into your home.
Check For Signs of Damages Before You Move In
Before you sign those closing papers and officially become a homeowner, make sure you inspect the roof. Check for any visible signs of damage like missing shingles or curled edges that could indicate wear and tear from weather exposure or age. It’s also important to check for water stains inside the attic or around windows which could be indicative of moisture leaks due to damage on the roof. If any of these signs are present, then it’s likely your first order of business will be repairing or replacing your roof as soon as possible.
Understand Your Roof Maintenance Responsibilities
Another reason you might need to repair your roof soon after moving in is related to maintenance responsibilities that should have been taken care of by the previous homeowners but weren’t. This can include anything from annual gutter cleaning and trimming tree branches near the house, to fixing broken tiles and resealing flashing around chimneys or skylights every few years. Depending on how long ago these tasks were done (and whether they were done properly) you may find yourself needing an immediate repair because of neglect by previous owners.
Be Prepared For Any Potential Issues
No matter what type of condition your roof is in when you move in, it’s always recommended that new homeowners get familiar with their roofs right away and schedule regular inspections so any potential issues can be identified quickly. This way, no problems will go unnoticed until they become bigger (and costlier) repairs down the line. With regular maintenance from experienced professionals and quality parts from trusted sources, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of.
Moving into a new home can bring about lots of changes—but understanding all about maintaining your new home's roof shouldn't have to be one. While inspecting for damages before signing those closing papers is important, it's equally important to understand all maintenance responsibilities associated with owning a home when it comes time for repairs or replacements down the line. Taking proactive measures such as scheduling regular inspections with experienced professionals can help ensure that no potential problems go unnoticed until they become bigger (and costlier) issues later on.
Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer based out of Boston, Massachusetts. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2
