How to Spot Roofing Issues in Older Buildings Before Buying
How to Spot Roofing Issues in Older Buildings Before Buying
Avoid Unexpected Costs by Inspecting These Key Areas
Buying a home or commercial building is one of the biggest investments you'll make—and if the roof is nearing the end of its life, it could cost you thousands in unexpected repairs. This is especially true in older buildings throughout the Quad Cities, where aging properties may hide roofing problems under the surface.
Here’s a pre-purchase roofing inspection guide to help you identify red flags, ask the right questions, and avoid costly surprises before signing on the dotted line.
1. Check the Roof’s Age and Material Type
Most roofing materials have a defined lifespan. If the roof is nearing or past its expected age, factor replacement into your purchase budget.
🔍 Lifespan Guide:
Asphalt shingles: 15–25 years
Metal roofing: 40–70 years
EPDM/TPO (flat roofs): 15–30 years
Wood shake: 20–30 years (with maintenance)
📄 Tip: Ask the seller for documentation of the last roof replacement or major repair.
2. Look for Visible Damage from the Ground
Walk the property and visually inspect the roof from multiple angles.
⚠️ Red Flags Include:
Curling, cracked, or missing shingles
Rusted flashing or metal edging
Sagging rooflines or dips in the surface
Stains on siding near the roofline (may indicate leaks or gutter overflow)
📸 Pro Tip: Snap photos and share them with a roofer for a quick assessment.
3. Inspect the Attic or Ceiling Spaces
If the building has accessible attic space, it can reveal a lot about roof health.
🔦 What to Look For:
Water stains or mold on wood or insulation
Daylight visible through the roof deck
Damp or musty smells
Animal nests or signs of intrusion
🛠 Buyer Warning: These are signs of active or past leaks and poor ventilation.
4. Ask About Drainage and Gutter Systems
Older buildings often have outdated or failing gutter systems that contribute to water damage and roof rot.
💧 Questions to Ask:
When were the gutters last cleaned or replaced?
Are there issues with water pooling or foundation drainage?
Have there been any ice dam problems in the past?
🌨 Local Insight: In the Quad Cities, snow and ice buildup can be particularly damaging to roofs without proper slope and drainage.
5. Evaluate Flashing Around Chimneys, Vents, and Skylights
Flashing is often the first thing to fail on older roofs—especially if installed incorrectly or never replaced.
🔍 Key Flashing Trouble Spots:
Chimneys
Plumbing vents
Skylights and roof windows
Valley joints and roof intersections
🔧 Repair Tip: Replacing flashing is often cheaper than a full roof replacement—but ignoring it leads to major interior damage.
6. Get a Professional Roof Inspection
A general home inspection usually isn’t enough. Hire a licensed roofing contractor to perform a pre-purchase roof inspection. They’ll provide a detailed report, photos, and replacement cost estimates if needed.
📑 Bonus: A documented inspection can help you negotiate the sale price or request seller credits for roof repairs.
Final Thoughts
Buying a building with an old or failing roof can turn into a financial headache if you don’t know what to look for. With careful inspection, the right questions, and a roofing professional by your side, you can move forward confidently—and avoid surprise repair bills after closing.
Need a roof inspected before you buy in the Quad Cities?
Twin Bridge Roofing & Construction provides detailed roof assessments for homebuyers and real estate professionals.
📞 (563) 655-4902 | 🌐 www.roofqc.com
