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True or False? Key Facts About Replacing Your Roof

Posted On Tuesday, 30 July 2024 15:31
True or False? Key Facts About Replacing Your Roof Image by freepik

How long will my roof last? When is it time to replace my roof? If you are considering replacing your roof, whether you must immediately take action or think the clock may be ticking, you’ve landed in the right place for credible answers to some of the most frequent questions from homeowners. The following will separate some common mistaken “facts” from authentic statements provided by Global Exterior Experts, who offer expertise based on many years of experience and in-depth roofing knowledge. 

True or False: You Can Tell How Long Your Roof Will Last by Looking At It Once In A While 

False. A common piece of advice homeowners neglect is to look at your roof once or twice a year. The truth is your roof may visually appear to be in peak condition, while underneath the supporting material, such as plywood, may be in very poor shape. If you think you can assess your roof's condition from the ground alone, think again. It's best to consult a professional to accurately determine its condition.

Too many environmental and structural factors come into play over the life of a roof to make a solid projection of the lifespan. For example, extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes, hail, windstorms, and tornados can damage a roof beyond repair. Sometimes found in older homes, structural issues may also contribute to the lifespan of a roof and are often not visible to a homeowner. 

Looking at your roof on your own once a year may reveal areas that need repair, but only an inspection by a qualified roofing company representative can give you a valid estimate of the condition and life of your roof. A yearly inspection is the smartest move a homeowner can make, given that much of the damage to a roof may be unseen, which brings us to the next “fact”. 

True or False: Call A Roofing Company When You See Water Damage 

True. Unfortunately, by the time water damage is visible, roof repair is often past the point of minor fixes and will need to be addressed immediately. Extensive repairs or even roof replacement must occur and the price can be high. According to Angie’s List, the 2024 cost of repair for water damage in the home ranges from $1,349-6,222. 

Damage from a roof is devious; it can be obscured or completely invisible until found during a roof inspection by a qualified roofing expert. Water damage may affect drywall, wood framing, insulation, and even electrical components within the home and these damages are typically not obvious until the damage is fairly serious. And, such collateral damage is just the beginning: one particularly concerning result of a leaking roof is water damage between walls, where the discovery of the damage is unlikely at all until it’s too late. 

True or False: Routine Maintenance Isn’t Needed–Your Roof Should Last 20-30 Years 

False: Just like every other component of your home, from electrical systems to paint and structural support, routine maintenance of your roof is critical. Homeowners sometimes “opt out” of the maintenance of their roof; they don’t want to face the maintenance cost until they absolutely have to. This is like ignoring a fire while it’s in a saucepan on your stove, only to lose your entire kitchen to the fire as a result. 

A yearly roofing inspection will come with results, as well as options for repair or replacement. The advantage to maintenance is that it affords you the opportunity to make your decisions as the life of the roof continues. For some years, you may select less-expensive options for repairs that help preserve the roof until the roof is in need of replacement. A yearly inspection by a roofing company will give you the guidance needed to make your own decisions, rather than being forced into an emergency replacement of your roof.   

True or False: Homeowner’s Insurance Will Cover The Cost Of Your Roof Replacement

It Depends: Several homeowners suggest via the internet that a good homeowners insurance policy will cover the cost of roof replacement and that there’s no need for maintenance as a result. We suggest you carefully read your policy. When damaged through an act of God, such as a hurricane or tornado, a homeowner’s policy payment may be indicated. Otherwise, the expectation is that homeowners will conduct routine roof maintenance, just as other parts of the home carry the same expectation. The idea that a homeowner can ignore the roof until it collapses, while expecting the costs to be covered by insurance is one that is not credible. 

If you want to use your homeowner insurance policy to your greatest advantage, maintain the roof of your home by having a yearly inspection done by a qualified roofing company. Keep the records and note the repairs made. This is the best way to indicate that you’ve done your part in maintaining your home should insurance be required down the road. 

There’s a quote attributed to President John F. Kennedy, “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” He meant it figuratively, as he was solidifying global relationships during a time of peace, but this quote can and should be taken quite literally when it comes to extending the life of your roof. Take care of it while the sun is shining.

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