Buying a Home in Newmarket? Here’s What to Look for on the Roof Before You Sign

If you're thinking about buying a home in Newmarket, you're not alone. It's a desirable area with a mix of charming older homes and newer builds. But before you fall in love with a property and rush to sign the papers, take a good look—upwards.

The roof is one of the most important (and expensive) parts of any home. And yet, it's often overlooked during the buying process. At Goldhill, we’ve helped countless homeowners across Newmarket and York Region avoid costly surprises with expert roofing inspections and honest advice.

Here’s what you should watch for before making one of the biggest investments of your life.

1. How Old Is the Roof?

Most asphalt shingle roofs in Ontario last between 15 to 25 years, depending on material quality, ventilation, and weather exposure. If the seller or realtor doesn’t know the age of the roof, that’s a red flag.

What you can do:
Ask for documentation. If the roof is more than 15 years old, budget for repairs or replacement. Goldhill can provide a full assessment to help you understand how much life is left in the system.

2. Are the Shingles Curling, Cracking, or Missing?

Visibly damaged shingles are a sign of aging or storm wear. Curling, cracking, or dark patches can allow water to penetrate the roof structure and lead to rot, leaks, and mold.

What you can do:
Take a walk around the exterior with your eyes on the roofline. Bring binoculars if needed. If you’re unsure, a roofing inspection from Goldhill can confirm whether the roof is structurally sound.

3. Check the Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters are a key part of the roofing system. Clogged or damaged gutters can cause water to back up under the shingles or overflow around the foundation—especially important in areas with snow and rain like Newmarket.

What you can do:
Look for sagging gutters, signs of rust, or granules from shingles (which signal roof deterioration). Goldhill also inspects gutter systems and can recommend upgrades if needed.

4. Look for Sagging or Uneven Roof Lines

A sagging roof deck or uneven ridge line may indicate structural issues beneath the surface—like water damage, rot, or problems with the trusses. These repairs can be costly if left unaddressed.

What you can do:
Stand back and view the roof from a distance. If the slope doesn’t look even or smooth, don’t ignore it. Goldhill can help identify whether the issue is cosmetic or a serious underlying problem.

5. Inspect the Flashing and Vents

Flashing (the metal strips around chimneys, skylights, and valleys) protects vulnerable joints on your roof. If it’s rusted, loose, or poorly sealed, water may be getting in.

What you can do:
If accessible, check for signs of gaps or rust around these areas. A roofing professional from Goldhill can examine them up close and make necessary recommendations.

6. What Does the Attic Say?

If the home has an accessible attic, take a look (or ask your inspector to). Signs of water stains, mold, or poor ventilation in the attic usually trace back to roofing issues.

What you can do:
Ask the seller or realtor for access. Goldhill offers attic-to-roof assessments to identify insulation or moisture problems tied to the roofing system.

How Goldhill Can Help

Buying a home in Newmarket is exciting—but a bad roof can turn your dream into a costly headache. At Goldhill, we offer:

• Pre-purchase roof inspections
  
  
• Detailed reports with photos
  
  
• Roof replacement or repair estimates
  
  
• Professional, local service backed by years of experience in the Newmarket area
  
  

Whether it’s a charming older home on Main Street or a newer build in Stonehaven, we make sure you’re not stepping into a roofing nightmare.

Thinking of Buying? Call Goldhill Before You Sign

Don’t rely on a general home inspection to give you the full picture of the roof. Contact Goldhill for a dedicated roof evaluation before you finalize the deal. It’s a small step that can save you thousands—and a lot of stress.