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May 18, 2009

Boiler and Roof

I'm looking to buy an apartment (co-op most likely) in Park Slope or Prospect Heights. How old is too old for a boiler and roof? Fell in love with one place and the broker said the roof and boiler had been replaced 15 years ago. Seems old to me. What's the usual?

Comments

It depends on the boiler and roof. Roofs usually have 10-15 year warranties. They can last longer. Boilers can last for up to 30 years. Your boiler is probably pretty inefficient though. I've gotten quotes on doing mine and the hot water heater that range from 6500 to 8500. Roof quotes are running between 9-15K. These are probably things that you would end up wanting to replace within the next 10 years, so you should consider that in your price. BUT don't buy anything until you get a home inspection - the inspector can tell you a lot more about what you've got in there.

Posted by: theklahy at May 18, 2009 4:21 PM

My boiler is ~40 years old and needs to be replaced. I got a quote last fall of 4K. And when we replaced the boiler at our weekend place a few years ago it was $3K.

The boiler is no doubt very inefficient. But judging from what I pay in gas bills and what others with similar sized houses have said on this site they pay, my house overall is relatively efficient. Keep in mind that heating efficiency has a lot to do with the overall state of your property - windows, insulation, roof, weatherstripping, etc

Posted by: pmmtenement at May 18, 2009 4:38 PM

Also, I would say 10-15 years is short for a roof. It entirely depends on the roof materials. A standard shingle roof is 25-30 yrs (for example).

Posted by: pmmtenement at May 18, 2009 4:40 PM

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