By Matt Spanton, President, Southeast Region, REFTRx
You’ve found the right neighborhood, the school district checks out and the porch has that sweet Southern swing potential. Before you sign, give the roof the same scrutiny you’d give the kitchen. In metro Atlanta, where steamy summers, sudden storms and a heavy tree canopy are the norm, roofs take a beating. A quick, smart assessment now can save you from surprise leaks later.
Shingle issues: Look for missing tabs, curling or cupping shingles and bare “bald” spots where granules have worn away. Granule piles in gutters are another clue the roof is aging.
Flashing and details: Check metal flashing around chimneys, skylights and valleys. Cracks, rust or gaps are common leak points.
Sagging or soft spots: Step back from the curb and scan the roofline. A dip in the ridge or a spongy feel when walked by a pro can signal decking problems.
Stains and streaks: Black streaks (algae) are common here and mostly cosmetic, but widespread moss or lichen can trap moisture. Inside, look for ceiling stains, peeling paint near crown molding and musty odors.
Gutters and overhangs: Clogged gutters from our oaks and pines force water under shingles. Inspect soffits and fascia for rot or peeling paint.
Attic check: In daylight, look for pinholes of sun, damp insulation, rusted nail tips or a stale, humid feel—signs ventilation isn’t doing its job.
Of course, sometimes the issues are not visible to the untrained eye. And let’s not understate the fear of heights that exists in many of us. In many cases, it makes sense to bring in a pro—someone who spends their days and evenings on roofs and is trained to see what many overlook. You need a trusted and qualified roofer.
Local, proven and findable: Prioritize established companies with a physical address in metro Atlanta and recent jobs in your ZIP code. Ask for two or three nearby references and call them.
Insurance and paperwork: Request proof of general liability and workers’ comp insurance. Ask what permits, if any, your city or county requires and who pulls them.
Clear scope and materials: Get written proposals that specify shingle brand and line, underlayment type, ventilation approach, flashing details and how decking repairs are handled.
Warranties you can read: Compare both manufacturer (materials) and workmanship (installer) warranties. Know what’s covered—and for how long.
No storm-chasing tactics: Be wary of fly-by-night roofers looking to make a quick buck after a hail storm, high-pressure sales or promises to “cover your deductible.” Reputable contractors don’t need gimmicks.
Transparent pricing and schedule: Avoid large upfront payments; reasonable deposits with staged payments tied to milestones are standard.
Jobsite discipline: Ask about daily cleanup, magnet sweeps for nails, protection for landscaping and who your point person is if issues crop up.
If the roof passes muster, schedule a maintenance visit after closing. Also, clean the gutters, reseal minor flashing, check ventilation and trim back limbs of surrounding trees. It’s a modest investment that buys peace of mind before winter rains roll in.
A roof doesn’t need to be brand new to be reliable. With a quick, focused inspection and a careful choice of contractor, your “new-to-you” Atlanta home can stay dry, efficient and ready for all the living you plan to do inside it. n
For more information, visit the RAFTRx website.
