Determining a Roof’s Age a How-to Guide for Surviving a Foreclosure Purchase

The composition of shingle roofs varies depending on the specific brand. These types of roofs are usually composed of fiberglass, asphalt, and fortified with mineral granules specifically designed to reflect harmful ultra-violet sun rays. The effective age of each roof will depend on exposure to the elements and standard of workmanship. Typically, manufacturers will issue warranties on these roofs for anywhere between 20 to 25 years. The manufacturer rarely warrants against leaks, but the contractor who installs a roof often times warrants the roof to be leak free for anywhere between 3 to 5 years. Quincy homes and Cambridge homes are well known for these composition types of roofs.

When inspecting a roof you should take note of any ‘dark spots’ on the surface of the shingles. The dark spots are usually formed after significant wear and when the granules begin to separate and leave ‘pockmarks’. This process is what the industry experts call ‘primary decomposition’. In this state the roof is highly susceptible to forming leaks. These spots usually first appear around the hip and ridge shingles and the field shingles that face south. These specific areas are more susceptible to damage because of rain runoff and orientation of sunrise/sunset.

If your roof starts to show these ‘dark spots’ you don’t necessarily have to replace all the shingles immediately. Many times the damage is not sufficient enough to warrant repairs. However, if you start to notice roof decomposition and development of these spots you should closely monitor it for leaks. If possible it a good idea to repair the pockmarks with new shingles in order to extend the overall life of the roof.

Other roof maintenance tips include keeping your rain gutters free of debris. If gutters become backed up due to leaves or other blockage rainwater may overflow and damage the roof’s edging. If any trees are in contact with the roof it’s best to remove them in order to prevent ‘scraping from branch limbs’. The roof’s flashing should be checked during an inspection to make sure there is no potential damage that could result in leakage.

After inspecting the roof if you notice any sort of ‘vegetation growth’ on the inside of the roof that is a pretty good indication that your roof leaks.

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