Do I Need a Roof Upgrade Before Selling My House?

If you’re looking to buy or sell a house, there are many aspects of the asking price, including the state of the roof. But is it essential to get a roof upgrade?

When buying or selling a house, it is important to have as much information as possible about the roof.

• A good roof helps provide comfort, protection, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal to your home.
• A bad roof can cause structural damage, lead to mold and mildew problems, pose a fire hazard from shorted wires, leave ugly water stains, and provide poor climate control resulting in wasted energy.

Why Does a Roof Upgrade Matter When Selling a House?

Buying a house with a bad roof can lead to other dangerous and expensive problems down the line. If you are selling your house, but the roof is not in great condition, it can turn off buyers and lower your asking price.

Learning about the roof can help contribute to a smooth housing transaction for both buyers and sellers.

Roof Age

Buyers and sellers should note the roof’s age. This will provide an initial idea of how soon the roof will need replacement, which is an important factor for the selling price of a house. The life expectancy of a roof can range anywhere between 15 and 100 years depending on its type, maintenance, and climate. Roofs with normal asphalt shingles tend to be on the lower span, lasting 15 to 20 years, while slate tile roofs tend to last 60 to 100 years.

Roof Type

Given the great variation of life expectancy, it is important for buyers and sellers to understand the type of roof on the house.

Asphalt shingles are very popular for their general affordability and durability in a wide range of climates, making them an ideal choice for sellers putting on a new roof. They come in many colors and provide attractive results, but buyers should keep in mind that asphalt shingles are vulnerable to fading. This can result in color inconsistencies on the roof.

Metal roofs tend to last longer than asphalt tiles, but they are also more expensive. They are popular in upscale neighborhoods because of their durability, long life, and aesthetic appeal (they come in many colors and styles).

Slate roofs are often attractive to potential buyers, but it is important to remember that slate roofs may not hold up as well in cold weather climates.

Other roof types include architectural asphalt shingles, with a life expectancy between 25 and 30 years; wood shake roofs, which typically last 20 to 40 years; and metal roofs or concrete tile roofs that survive between 35 and 50 years.

Roof Inspection Results

A buyer should ask when the roof was last inspected and request a copy of the report. If the seller does not provide a recent report, potential buyers should arrange for their own professional roof inspection. A buyer may be able to identify a damaged roof if it is wavy, missing shingles, or has curled edges.

Results from a professional roof inspection are also important because they can reveal less obvious issues including weakened areas, rotting, or hidden leaks. The inspector can also provide information on the quality of materials used in the roof, which can have a significant impact on the roof’s lifespan. A roof inspection can alert sellers and buyers to the need for maintenance, repairs, or full replacement.

Given the importance of having a good roof, buyers and sellers should know some basics about the roof’s condition. Depending on the house size and market area, a new roof can cost $2,000 to over $30,000. Such a large expense should not come at an unexpected moment, but should be made with careful planning after understanding the roof’s age, type, and inspection results.

Signs You Need a Roof Upgrade Before Selling Your Home

If you’re having trouble selling your home because of your roof, it may be time to upgrade it. Damage and other minor issues might go unnoticed for years, and this can result in skyrocketing energy bills and a huge hit to your home’s value. Here is a look at some signs that your home needs a roof upgrade before selling your house.

Your Curb Appeal Is Dropping

No one wants to have their home stand out because of a damaged or deteriorating roof. If your home looks much older than it actually is due to your roof, then you might be ready for a roof upgrade. A new roof provides a great return on investment for homes of any age and within any price range.

Your Yard Is Filled With Granules

Granules pressed and glued together create asphalt shingle. After years of sun and water damage, the shingles will break into smaller pieces and scatter throughout your property. This is another clear sign that you need roof repair and your roof needs replacing within the next few seasons.

A Musty Smell in the Attic

Every homeowner should make a point of checking their attic for water damage a few times a year. Over time, a damaged roof will eventually allow moisture into the attic. This can result in flattened insulation, mold, mildew, and a musty smell. These issues will not only affect your home’s efficiency, but they might also affect your family’s health. If this is happening to your roof, you absolutely need a roof upgrade immediately before selling your home.

Conclusion

Your roof can make or break the sale of your home. These 3 signs that you need a roof upgrade may a bit more, but can positively impact your selling price. By doing yearly roof inspections, you can avoid some serious roof damage and repair.