It’s not unheard of for homeowners to postpone having the roof of their home replaced due to the cost, but while this is understandable, it’s certainly not a good idea.
A roof that needs to be replaced is likely already showing signs of wear and tear; signs that are never going to go away, as much as you might want them to. Not only do those signs of wear and tear not go away, but they will probably get worse as time progresses, and you could end up having to pay for more than just a new roof if damage is caused to the rest of your home.
Ultimately, once a roof needs to be replaced, it’s best to bite the bullet and schedule a roof replacement with a local construction company, otherwise, the following 9 things could happen:
- Roof leaks and water damage
When a leak in a roof that needs to be replaced isn’t remedied as soon as it’s spotted, intrusive water could quickly cause damage to other areas of your home, including drywall, floorboards, insulation, carpeting, and even electronics. The cost of this when added up, could result in almost as much as a new roof.
2. Mold growth
In the case of an unaddressed roof leak, not only can it cause damage to parts of your home, but it can encourage the growth of black mold and mildew, which can be costly to remove. A new roof will keep water out, and make mold a problem in your home, you may never have to face in your lifetime.
3. Rodents and vermin
Nobody likes the thought of mice and other vermin merrily making their homes in our roofs, but if there are missing shingles, holes or failing flashing, this could become an unhygienic reality. Prevent the cost of calling out pest control and putting your family and belongings at risk by having your old roof replaced.
4. Double tear-offs
It can be tempting to simply re-roof existing shingles, instead of having the whole roof replaced, to save money. However, all this is doing is delaying the inevitable and making everything cost more money, since two shingle layers will need to be removed and gotten rid of. Not only that, but double shingles are weighty which can cause the deck boards to sag, and ultimately, shorten the shingles lifespan.
5. Storm damage
It goes without saying that an old, failing roof is far more likely to suffer damage in a storm than a new one. Enough said!
6. Insurance claims denial
A roof that has surpassed its warranty or reaches an age beyond that specified by your insurer, may cause any roof damage claims you go on to make, to be rejected.
7. Structural damage
Water that continues to permeate your roof may lead to rot, which could then go on to weaken the roofs structure; eventually putting it at risk of collapse. A collapsed roof can cost thousands to repair, which could have been avoided with timely roof replacement.
8. Diminished energy efficiency
Nothing can help your home be more energy efficient than a brand new roof, but it’s worth noting that some shingles brands have higher rates of efficiency than others, so do check with your roofing contractor before purchasing any.
9. Decreased property value
Potential buyers may ask for a reduction in the asking price on a property with a roof in poor condition, since they know they will soon have to face the expense of replacing it. they may also reject it entirely, and seek out a similar property with a new roof, or at least one in a better condition.
In fact, there are more reasons than the 9 listed above to avoid postponing a roof replacement, but still homeowners fail to see the urgency, and believe that it can wait until it’s absolutely unavoidable.
To give your home the protection it deserves, schedule a roof replacement with a reputable local company, and start reaping the rewards.