Why You Should Care More About the Roof Over Your Head
“You have a beautiful roof.” Said no one ever. But the fact is a roof is one of the most important aspects of your home. It protects you from the changing weather and helps insulate the house, keeping you and your possessions dry and comfortable. More people should be complimenting this overlooked hero.
A quality roof extends the life of your home. (Plus - it makes it easier to sell when you are ready to move.) A faulty roof can lead to a host of other problems. As soon as water gets through the roof it starts wreaking havoc on your house. Sheetrock, wiring, and plywood are all sworn enemies of water and do not handle contact with it very well at all. If left untreated you can have a host of mold and rot problems. Fortunately, you have options to protect your home.
Check for damages and repair quickly
The best way to protect your roof is to make sure small problems don’t turn into large problems. After a strong storm or snow be sure to check your roof for loose or missing shingles. One way is by exploring your yard for lost shingles. If your attic space is accessible check it out during a heavy rainstorm to see if you can find any leaks. Routinely check your ceilings for wet spots, especially in the corners. If you are able to see any damage you can hire a professional to take care of it. Or try out your handyman skills if you are comfortable tackling the project yourself.
Get clarity on the condition
If you are having trouble figuring out the condition of your roof you can always get a quote from a local contractor. They should be able to give you an estimate on the life of the roof. Depending on their inspection they might suggest partial replacement or repair over a full replacement. A roof is a big project, so it is wise to get a second opinion before beginning the project. Always be proactive with replacing a roof. You don't want to wait until you have water damage to determine that it is time to replace the roof. Because then you will be paying for a roof and the damages that the faulty roof caused.
Know your options
There are dozens of options out there for types of roofs. One of the more common options is the asphalt shingle. These are typically used for their price, ease of installation, and reliability. There are many other materials to use for a roof including slate, metal, and tile. As a homeowner you have the freedom to choose your roof material, just make sure it is HOA-approved if needed. You also want to make sure the cost lines up with your budget. More expensive materials tend to last longer. You need to determine your personal preference on how much you are willing to pay for the return on life expectancy.
The un-fun maintenance of a home
Paying for a roof is not as fun as remodeling a home or getting new furniture. It can get fairly expensive. It is important to budget for maintenance costs and be saving for a replacement. The last thing you want to do is damage your home because you aren't taking care of it. Be nice to that roof because after all, it is the thing protecting you from the elements.
