Investing in a home with a brand new roof is exciting and can help you to gain peace of mind knowing that you will not require a roof replacement for at least a couple of decades. However, if you are new to the homebuying process or the process of buying in a new roof altogether, it is advisable to brush up on a few tips to avoid overspending and investing in a low-quality solution for your home or property.
Prior to finalizing the purchase of any home or structure with a roof, a complete professional inspection is recommended. Without a proper inspection, you run the risk of making a purchase that is not guaranteed or one that falls short of your expectations.
Roof inspections provide valuable insight into the current age of your roof and its overall condition. Discover what type of material your roof is constructed with, when it was constructed, and whether or not there are any potential or current leaks. A complete roofing inspection will also provide more information regarding the insulation, slope, and overall strength and integrity of the roof on the home or building.
Opting out of an inspection means that you accept any and all responsibility that comes along with repairing, updating, or even replacing the roof, even if you need to do so immediately after finalizing your purchase. It is always best to conduct a high-quality professional inspection of any home or structure that involves a roof, especially if the roof is promoted as brand new or in new condition.
Whether you are in the market for a new home and roof or a new home with a roof in good condition, it is important to know the age of the roof on any structure you are interested in. A roof can last anywhere from 15 to more than 50 years with today’s materials, depending on the type of roof your home currently has installed.
If you are unsure of the age of the roof on a home you are interested in buying, consider hiring a professional inspector to ensure the job is done right. A roof inspector will provide you with an overview of the roof’s age based on the following criteria:
Choosing the right brand of roof is a decision that should not be made frivolously, especially as a roof is typically a major financial investment for anyone, regardless of your income. Research and compare roof brands to learn more about what materials each manufacturer specializes in as well as the types of roofing material that is best for your home or the climate you choose to reside in. If you are in the process of purchasing a home that is advertising a brand new roof, conduct adequate research on the brand itself to ensure its quality and its potential lifespan before making a purchase and moving in. Some of the most popular roofing brands in the United States today include:
Take the time to research and compare roofing brands to determine whether or not the home you are interested in purchasing is suitable for your needs and the level of roof quality you are seeking. When you are in the market for a new roof yourself, it is also advisable to research and compare brands to find a provider that delivers exactly what you envision for your home on any budget.
Asphalt shingled roofs last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, barring major storms and extreme weather or climates. Asphalt roofs are extremely common due to their affordability, averaging anywhere from $70 to $150 per square.
For those interested in using architectural shingles for a denser and thicker roof, expect a lifespan of anywhere between 25 and 30 years. Architectural roofing shingles cost approximately $250 to more than $400 per square, depending on the style and thickness of your chosen roof shingles.
Individuals living in warmer climates and desert areas such as in the southwest region of the country are likely to turn to clay tile roofing for their homes or even for their commercial properties and structures. A clay roof is optimal for combatting heat while withstanding heat and intense sun. Terracotta and earthy tones are most common with clay roofs, which typically skew on the more costly side of all roof materials. On average, a square of clay tile roofing costs approximately $600 to 800, making it a more expensive, yet more durable roofing type for both residential and commercial buildings.
Wood shingled roofs are a natural and modern solution for homes today that provide additional insect and rot-resistance. A wood shingle roof typically averages about $250 to more than $600 per square, depending on the style of the shingles as well as the chosen wooden material used.
Metal roofs are an extremely popular choice for long-term investments as well as for commercial buildings. Commercial roofing typically starts at approximately $115 a square, but can go upwards of $900 per square for those interested in either copper or steel-based tiles. A metal roof has an average lifespan of 20 to 25 years in total.
One of the most durable roofs available today include slate roofs, with a steep prices of $600 to more than $1,500 per square. Slate roofs utilize a natural stone with extremely fine grains for a sleek, modern, and strong appearance.
Anytime you are in the market for a new home with a new roof, it is imperative to verify whether or not you are provided with a warranty with your investment. Not all homes and roofs come with warranties, which can significantly impact the amount you will need to invest in the home and structure in both the short and long-term.
Seek a home that comes with a roof warranty, regardless of the material and the age of the roof. Roof warranties are likely to vary based on the type of material used as well as its current age.
Most asphalt roofs come with warranties that last at least 25 years, depending on the manufacturer of the roofing tiles you install. With architectural roofing shingles, you can expect a warranty for up to 30 years.
In many cases, clay tile roof warranties last anywhere from 30 years to an entire lifetime, making it an ideal investment for some. Most wood shingle roofs come with warranties that are guaranteed for a minimum of 30 years.
Metal roof warranties often last anywhere from 20 years to a lifetime. For those interested in the major investment in a slate roof, a warranty typically begins at 50 years and can last an entire lifetime.
It is important to note that many “lifetime warranties” may or may not provide you full financial coverage for the entirety of the duration you own your home. Always read the fine print from any roof manufacturer and warranty provider prior to finalizing the purchase or investment of a new home and/or roof.
Whenever you are in the market for a home with a new roof and you want to ensure you are entitled to the roof’s warranty, verify that the warranty is transferable in your state and current location. Some roof warranties may not be transferable based on the roof brand and manufacturer as well as the state you reside in and any transferring restrictions that may be in place when it comes to deeds and roofing warranties.
Most roof warranties will not transfer to a new owner, which is why it is important to clarify your rights as a new property owner prior to finalizing your purchase and moving in. If possible, seek out new potential warranty solutions that can provide you with an additional layer of protection upon moving into your new home.
Replacing a roof is not as simple as going to your local home improvement store and purchasing a few materials. Typically, the process of hiring a professional roofing company and reserving an at least a few days to a week of time is necessary whenever you are replacing your home’s roof. According to Fixr, the minimum cost of a roof replacement is approximately $3,500 for a low-budget asphalt tile on a 1000 square foot home. The national average for a roofing replacement in the United States is currently $9,000.
The average range of a roof replacement for both 1 and 2-story homes in the US is $7,000 to $12,000 with a maximum cost of $44,000 for large residential homes with 2 stories and roof deck work.
When seeking an estimate for a new roof or a replacement of your current roof, consider the materials you are thinking of using as well as the budget you have available. It is also advisable to research and compare brands near you as well as those that are right for you based on the climate in your location as well as any serious and severe weather you encounter annually in your home.
One way to extend the lifespan of your home’s roof, even if it is not brand new, is to consider ongoing roofing maintenance services. Working with a roofing company you can trust is a way to put your mind at ease year-round, even if your experience a myriad of storm types and weather. With ongoing roof maintenance, gutter cleaning, and shingle replacement, ensure that your roof lasts as intended. Roofing maintenance services and repairs are ideal not only for residential homeowners, but also for commercial property owners who have a vested interest in protecting the investments they make on behalf of their businesses.
Moving forward with the process of purchasing a home with a new roof does not have to feel confusing, stressful, or even overwhelming. Once you have a basic understanding of roofing types, different brands, and how to maintain your preferred roof, you can move forward with your investment feeling comfortable and confident in your decision. If you are in the market for a new roof and are living in the Wilmington, Delaware area, contact A Plus Roofing & Construction, LLC to receive your quote and to learn how we can help you with your home’s next addition today.
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