Roofing Issues
in New Homes:

Insights from a
Tucson Home Inspector

Local News Report featuring Interview with Home Inspector Jack Randall

For many homebuyers, the allure of a new house is irresistible: fresh paint, pristine floors, and the smell of newness all around. However, as a professional home inspector in Tucson, I often encounter unsuspected problems in brand-new homes, most notably with roofs. Despite having recently been built and their "appearance" of perfection, these properties are not immune to issues. Below are some of my thoughts as a seasoned Tucson home inspector on the common roofing problems hopefully shedding some shedding light on what you as a potential buyer need to be aware of.

Poor Installation Quality

Often times new homes are constructed quickly to meet demands. More often than not, this haste compromises the quality of workmanship. Roofers, in their rush to complete projects, might make mistakes such as improper shingle installation, inadequate sealing around vents, or incorrect flashing leading to leaks and structural damage, often becoming apparent only after a few years of occupancy.

Inadequate Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial for a healthy roof, especially during our sweltering summer months here in Tucson. In new homes, ventilation systems might be overlooked or poorly installed. Inadequate ventilation can cause heat and moisture to build up in the attic, leading to premature deterioration of the roofing materials, mold, and higher energy bills due to inefficient temperature regulation.

Subpar Construction Materials

While new homes in Tucson often boast of modern amenities, some builders may cut corners by using substandard or subpar roofing materials; cheap shingles, underlayment, or flashing materials can lead to rapid wear and tear, leaving homeowners with repair bills much sooner than expected. As a home inspector, I often find that investing in higher quality roofing materials pays off in the long run.

Flawed Roof Design and Drainage

Proper roof design is critical to prevent water accumulation and subsequent damage. Poorly designed roofs with inadequate drainage can lead to pooling water, compromising the roof's integrity and potentially seeping into the structure, causing extensive damage to the home's interior. A flaw in design can be challenging and costly to rectify after the construction is complete. Have a Home Inspector perform a New Home Inspection or even a Pre-Dry Wall Inspection can detect these issues ahead of time.

Lack of Proper Inspections

Surprisingly, some newly constructed Tucson homes do not undergo thorough inspections before being sold. Without a meticulous evaluation, potential roofing issues will often be overlooked. A home inspector’s experience and keen eye can catch problems that might otherwise remain unnoticed until they escalate into major concerns, leading to inconvenience, frustration and significant expenses for homeowners in the future.

As I mentioned earlier, the allure of a new home is undeniable. However, in my opinion it’s essential for home buyers to recognize that even new construction homes and properties are not immune to issues– especially with their roofing. As a home inspector, I encourage prospective buyers to invest in a professional inspection, even for new homes. A comprehensive evaluation can reveal the potential roofing problems mentioned above, allowing you the home buyer to address these issues with builders before they escalate.

By being aware of the common roofing pitfalls in new homes, buyers can make informed decisions, negotiate necessary repairs with builders, and ensure that their dream home remains a haven of safety and comfort for years to come. Remember, diligence at the beginning can save you from headaches, heartaches, and significant expenses in the future.