Roofs can easily be one of the most expensive repairs that a homeowner will face. The good news is that with periodic inspections, roof problems can be identified early and sometimes corrected before the damage gets worse – and more expensive. Here’s what you need to know about inspecting and repairing your roof.
The cost of replacing a roof can be many thousands of dollars, even when using basic, asphalt shingles. Aside from being sure the roof was installed properly, the best way to make a roof last for many years is with proper maintenance. Since most roofs are difficult to access, it is easy to forget about it and just assume everything is alright. The only way to know for sure that a roof is in good condition, however, is to have a professional inspection performed.
A roof inspection can identify potential problems with the roof material or the underlying structure. The earlier you know about these developing problems, the greater the chance you can repair it at a reasonable cost. Once water damage begins to occur from a failing roof, the repair costs can escalate quickly. Penetrating water can lead to weaken roof substructures, damaged insulation, stained ceilings and mold growth, all of which can be expensive to remediate and repair.
Spring is the perfect time to have a roof inspection done on your home. A spring inspection can identify any problems that may have developed from snow and ice during the winter months. Melting and freezing snow and ice can lead to freeze damage, ice dams and other problems that can cause serious – and unseen – damage. Having an inspection can reveal these concerns and give you an opportunity to make repairs quickly.
Roofing Material Tips
There are many roofing materials to consider if you need to install a new roof at your home. The cost varies considerably between materials, but some materials also last considerably longer. Which material is best will depend on your budget and how long you plan to keep the home.
Asphalt shingles are the most common option for roofs. These shingles are relatively inexpensive, but may fail in as little as 15 years. Warranties for high-quality, asphalt shingles may be for as long as 50 years, but rarely will the shingles last that long. The warranties are also typically pro-rated, so a replacement will still be expensive.
Metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular. This option is more expensive than asphalt shingles, but can easily last for decades, sometimes outlasting asphalt shingles by two to three times. Metal roofing panels are available in a variety of colors.
Composite shingles are more expensive than asphalt shingles or metal panels, but offer interesting options for appearance. These shingles are available in distinctive colors and patterns, allowing you to make a more custom and appealing statement with your roof. Longevity for composite shingles is often similar to asphalt.
Are you looking for a long-term roofing solution? You might want to consider clay tile or slate roofing. These options are far less common than the others, and also far more expensive. In addition to the material costs, roofs with these materials require roof truss reinforcement. That investment pays off in longevity, however, with each material easily lasting for a century or longer.
Accurate Home Inspections provides homeowners with peace of mind. A spring roof inspection can save you thousands of dollars in future repairs by identifying problems quickly. We inspect private homes, duplexes and townhouses, as well as condo units, and can inspect your whole home – not just the roof – to give you a complete and comprehensive look at the health of your property. Contact us today by calling 403-826-6111 to schedule your home or roof inspection or request an appointment online.
Wow, this is a fantastic post! Professional roof inspection could give you an accurate report about the condition of your roofs. It is always worth the price to consult a professional.