Replacing or restoring your roof is something every homeowner has to do from time to time. If you decide to do it too early, though, you could be spending money you don’t have in replacing a roof that still has some life left in it. Here are four of the best ways to decide if a new roof is the right choice for your home.
Look for Signs of Water Intrusion
Water getting in through the ceilings in your house is a clear sign that you need a new roof. Look for discoloration, cracking and bubbling in your ceilings, as all of these can indicate where water may be getting in. If you find signs of water intrusion, you will need to make appropriate roof repairs immediately, since the long-term effects of water damage can be very costly.
Inspect the Roof for Damage
Another simple way to tell if your roof is ready for replacement is to get up and physically inspect it. Look for gaps between shingles, loose shingles and anything else that could potentially be letting water into the house. If you see obvious signs of damage or degradation, it’s probably time to consider a new roof. If you aren’t sure what to look for, consider having a good roofing contractor come out to give you an inspection.
Find Out How Long You’ve Had Your Current Roof
Since roofs have to be replaced periodically, one of the best ways to find out if you’re ready for a new one is to check how long the current one has been up. Modern roofs typically last between 15 and 20 years, depending on weather conditions and general wear and tear. If your roof is older than that, it’s almost certainly due for replacement.
Consider How Long You Plan to Keep the Property
If your roof still has a few years left in it but you plan on selling soon, you may want to go ahead and replace it. While this goes against the idea of waiting until the work needs done to avoid problems, adding a new roof can help your house fetch a higher market price. If you think your roof still has 5 years or more of life in it, though, it may be a little early for a replacement.
These are four of the best ways to decide whether or not to put a new roof on a house. Once you decide, you can move on to the next steps of getting quotes, selecting materials and having your new roof put on.
