Possible shingle "defects" or premature aging.
The shingles
on this home that we inspected revealed a "mumplike appearance" or bubbles under
the granules of the covering. The roof is less than 7 years old. Eventually, these
bubbles will become blisters. Often the blisters do not penetrate or are deep
enough to cause a leak, but not always. The aesthetics or appearance of roof will
become worse over time. Manufacturers of roof coverings vary on responsiveness
and accountability. If this problem occurs before five years, the manufacturer
may replace materials and labor. Or, they may not. It depends on their warranty.
I've seen some manufacturers respond and agree to the defect and compensate in
whole or pro-rata. And some said that it would continue to age gracefully. Some
even presented a letter to the homeowner that guarantees another 7 or ten years.
If you have a possible defect, I recommend you remove a whole piece of shingle
(replace it), and go to your nearest roofing wholesaler and they will be able
to identify the manufacturer. Each manufacturer is different. Some will send you
a prepaid shipping packet to mail the shingle to them.If you're a buyer, and have
not yet become the owner and are here based on your home inspector, then I would
recommend you ask the seller to follow up on this issue before you agree to purchase.
Some roofing manufacturers may not pass the warranty to the next owner. It is
better you find out now, as opposed to later.
Inspector:
Russell Buchanan
