Pre-Move-In Roofing & Waterproofing Guide

What to Check Before Living in an Older Home

Why Roof & Waterproofing Matter

The roof and waterproofing system form your home’s first line of defense against moisture damage. When they fail, leaks often travel invisibly through attic spaces, wall cavities, or flooring before becoming visible—and by then, repairs are far more expensive. Older homes are especially vulnerable due to aging shingles, deteriorated flashing, and worn-out sealants in kitchens and bathrooms. Ensuring your roof and waterproofing are sound before moving in protects the structure, prevents mold, and saves you from unexpected renovation costs after settling in.

Common Problems in Aging Roofing & Waterproofing Systems

As homes age, moisture-related issues tend to appear in predictable areas. Typical concerns include:

•Worn or missing shingles that allow water infiltration during storms.
•Cracked or failing flashing around chimneys, vents, and roof transitions.
•Aging underlayment, which loses its waterproofing ability after 20–30 years.
•Clogged or sagging gutters that trap water against fascia and roofing edges.
•Failed silicone or caulking around tubs, sinks, and kitchen backsplashes.
•Loose or hollow-sounding tiles in bathrooms, often caused by moisture behind them.

These issues typically remain hidden until water causes staining, sagging, or mold, making pre-move-in inspection essential.

What Should Do

Several simple checks can help identify early moisture risks before you move in. Consider:

•Walking the home after a rainfall to look for stains, drips, or moisture at ceilings and walls.
•Inspecting bathroom and kitchen sealants, and reapplying silicone where cracks or gaps appear.
•Before tiling, check the Acrylic Waterproofing Coating is applied evenly and that wall corners and grout lines are covered. After tiling, check that the grout is intact.
•Evaluating gutters and downspouts for proper drainage and ensuring water flows away from the foundation.
• Check that the waterproof membrane on the bathroom floor covers all corners, ensuring complete coverage at the junction of the floor and walls.

What Roofing & Waterproofing Professionals Should Inspect

A qualified roofing or waterproofing specialist can uncover deeper issues that aren’t visible during a standard walkthrough. They should:

•Inspect the entire roof surface, noting shingle age, granule loss, and potential leak points.
•Examine flashing and roof penetrations for cracks, loose seals, or corrosion.
•Check attic spaces for moisture, daylight through the roof deck, or insulation damage.
•Review the condition of underlayment to estimate remaining lifespan and identify areas needing replacement.
•Perform moisture meter readings in bathrooms, kitchens, or any suspect wall.


Final Checklist for a Dry, Well-Protected Home

Verify that all bathroom and kitchen sealants are refreshed, gutters are clear, and no ceiling shows signs of moisture. Have a professional evaluate the roof’s age, flashing quality, and attic ventilation. If the roof is near the end of its lifespan, plan for repairs or replacement soon after move-in. Completing these steps prevents moisture intrusion, protects the home’s structure, and ensures your living spaces remain clean, dry, and damage-free in the years ahead.

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