With the recent heavy rains drenching Long Island and surrounding areas, many homeowners discovered that their roofs leaked. Roof repairs can sometimes be costly, especially when a new roof is needed. If you’re looking to purchase a new home, you want to be sure the home inspector you hire examines the roof thoroughly to ensure that there are no potential problems that may catch you by surprise after purchasing a home.
Sometimes the signs of a leak may be rather obvious to spot, but a licensed home inspector can spot a variety of warning signs that may signal the beginning of a problem that could soon worsen if left untreated.
More often than not, a home inspector may simply tell you that the home needs a new roof without explaining exactly why. If this happens, do not be afraid to ask questions in order to gain a better understanding of what the warning signs or problems are.
Typical problems may range from simple wear and tear to extensive water damage. Some problems may also stem from improper installation. Older homes will usually need some type of repair or maintenance.
Ceiling stains are a classic sign of a leaky roof; however, it can be hard to determine if the stains are the result of an old leak or if the leak is still active. Additionally, there is the possibility that the stains were actually caused by leaky pipes.
Sagging ceilings can also indicate water intrusion, or the result of condensation buildup due to poor ventilation. Water intrusion can be quite common around specific areas, such as chimneys or skylights. Sometimes a simple patch might be all that is required, but if the leak has been occurring over a long period of time, then extensive water damage might also be present.
For more information about home inspection, visit Safe Harbor Inspections, Inc., an owner operated company dedicated solely to providing the best home inspections service on Long Island, New York.
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