Roof Issues to Look Out for When Buying or Selling a Home

Whether you’re buying or selling a property, the roof is one of the most critical parts of a home. Its condition could be the difference between a sale and being passed over. This is especially important in west coast areas like Baja California, where salty air and coastal weather conditions can affect the longevity and appearance of roofing materials. Here’s how to ensure your roof is looking and performing beautifully.

Roof Shape

1. Start by inspecting the shape of the roof.

2. Look for any droops or sagging areas and ensure the surface throughout is level.

3. Check for cracks or holes and make sure no roof tiles are missing. If the property features Spanish domes and skylights, inspect these closely as they can be problematic areas.

4. Check for gaps or cracks between the dome or skylight frame and the roof, and ensure the flashing is intact.
   

5. Check the ceiling and walls inside the home for any signs of water damage.

6. Stains, discoloration, or peeling paint can be telltale signs of a leaking roof.

7. Water damage can indicate that the roof is compromised and needs immediate attention to prevent further deterioration and expensive repairs.

Roofing Material

Properties are protected by various materials, but common ones include concrete or clay roof tiles. Each material can display different signs of damage or wear. Choosing the right type of tile and shape for your project is important. Here’s what to look for:

Roof Tiles

Concrete or clay roof tiles generally show similar signs of wear and tear. Look for cracked, chipped, or broken tiles. Missing tiles, especially multiple ones, indicate a larger issue or lack of maintenance. Dislodged tiles could mean incorrect installation, wind damage, or general wear over time.

Concrete and clay tiles are much heavier and more expensive than other materials, so your roof may require new beams and rafters if there is water damage.

Asphalt Roofing

Asphalt Shingles and sheets often show similar damage signs as traditional roof tiles. Felt shingles, for instance, can suffer from rips and tears. Fungus, mold, and unevenness are other clear signs of wear. Shingles are economical to repair or replace, but remember that maintenance is required often.

PVC Roofing

PVC roofing is a lightweight and economical option but comes with a shorter guarantee, typically around 5 years. Signs of wear include discoloration, brittleness, and cracks. Regular inspections are crucial to catch early signs of damage. If your PVC roof shows these issues, it might need repair or replacement sooner than other materials.

EPDM Rubber

Common for flat roofs, EPDM rubber membranes show damage through blistering, bubbling, pooling water, tears, surface crusting, punctures, and mold growth. These signs are harder to spot from a distance, so a closer inspection is necessary.

Roof Rafters

Roof rafters are crucial structural elements that can cause serious issues if damaged. Made from timber, rafters provide 25 to 35 years of service. Signs of rot, such as cracks, discoloration, or softness, indicate a loss of structural integrity. If one rafter is compromised, check all the timber in your roof for broader issues.

Valleys and Ridges

Valleys and ridges are common areas for roof damage. Look for cracks or holes in valleys, where sections of the roof join. Check the roof ridge at the apex for signs of damage, such as holes, cracks, or missing tiles.

Consider Replacing an Old Roof with Stone Coated Metal One

Stone-coated metal roofing is an excellent choice for homeowners looking to replace an old roof. This type of roofing offers unmatched durability, style, and resistance to harsh weather conditions. Hecho Techo's stone-coated metal roof tiles are designed to withstand the west coast's salty air, providing long-lasting protection and curb appeal. These tiles are available in various colors and styles, ensuring a perfect match for any home. Plus, they require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective and practical solution for homeowners. Using the most updated new technology, these tiles come with an industry-leading 50-year warranty, guaranteeing peace of mind for decades. Hecho Techo, based in Rosarito, is the best place for all your roofing requirements, whether you are looking for roof restoration or a new roofing system.

Your Decision on If You Have Roof Issues to Look Out For

Maintaining your roof is crucial for both selling and buying a home, especially in coastal areas like Baja California. Roof issues can quickly turn potential buyers away, so it’s vital to address them before they become severe. Whether you need to clean, repair, or fully replace your roof, Hecho Techo's premium stone-coated metal roof tiles offer durability and style to withstand the west coast's salty air conditions. Invest in peace of mind and enhance your property’s curb appeal with Hecho Techo. Contact us today to learn more about our products, services, roof issues to look out for, and if you would benefit from a new roof.

Premium stone-coated metal roof tiles for durable, stylish roofing.

Commonly Asked Questions About Roof Types in California

1. How Do You Tell When You Need a New Roof? Leaking roofs with wet ceilings and missing or damaged shingles that warn of potential leaks are signs of urgent roof replacement.

2. What is The Best Roof For High Winds? Clay tiles, metal roofing, and fiberglass asphalt shingles are all appropriate roofing choices for high-wind areas.

3. What is The Longest-Lasting Roofing Material? The longest-lasting roof material is metal roofing, lasting more than 80 years, followed by clay, concrete, and slate roofing that may last up to 50 years.

4. Which Roof is Best for a Hot Climate? Metal, clay, and asphalt sheeting are three excellent roofing options for a hot climate—clay is the most expensive, and asphalt sheeting is the cheapest.

5. What is The Most Durable Type of Roof? Stone-coated metal roofing is the most durable of all roof types. It was first developed in England after the Second World War when authorities looked for a solution for coastal areas where corrosion is a major factor.

6. What Type of Roofing is The Cheapest? Asphalt roofing is the most affordable, but will have to be replaced often.

7. What Type of Roof is Best For Hurricanes? Roofs with multiple slopes, ideally inclined at 30 degrees, are the best to stand against extreme wind pressure. Hence, the 4-sloped hip roof is safer than a gable roof with just two slopes.

8. How Can I Make My Roof Last Longer?

• Manually clean the roof with brooms or leaf blowers.

• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent condensation on the plywood decking and resultant rotting.

• Regularly clean the gutters to avoid water logs.
  

9. You Have More Questions

• Check out our FAQ

• Call us for a free consultation on fixing your roof.