As winter comes to an end and spring draws nearer, it’s a good time to start thinking about what home improvement projects will be a priority for your family in the months to come. Spring is one of the best times for a roof replacement, which could provide many benefits for your home.
You’re Selling Your Home
If you're thinking about selling your home in the next few years and you know your roof is nearing the end of its life, replacing your roof can be a smart move to increase your home’s value. Your new roof will also enhance curb appeal and make a great first impression on potential buyers, which can be key to selling your home quickly in a tight market and getting the best offer.
You’re Buying a “Fixer Upper”
If you’re in the market for a home, one of the things you must consider is the age and condition of its roof. Being willing to replace a roof on a prospective home purchase can give you leverage to negotiate a better offer. Many sellers simply don’t have the time or the immediate capital to invest in replacing the roof, especially if they are trying to sell during inclement weather seasons. Buying a house that needs some work at a better price can be a great deal.
Energy Efficiency
Replacing an old roof with one that improves your home’s energy efficiency can save you money on your heating and cooling bills. Plus, a number of federal tax credits for residential energy efficiency have recently been renewed, including a credit for Energy Star-certified metal and asphalt roofs. These roofs have pigmented coatings or cooling granules designed to reduce heat gain, potentially lowering the surface temperature of a roof by up to 50° F. This decreases the amount of heat that enters your home, allowing your home to stay more comfortable while using less energy.
You Want an Updated Look
Your roof’s appearance can transform the look and feel of your home. A dated roof is not only less energy-efficient; it can also make your home an eyesore. The vast array of attractive, affordable roofing materials on the market today includes traditional shingles, architectural shingles, stone-coated steel, and much more. One of the most versatile choices is steel roofing, which can be manufactured to look like more natural or traditional materials such as slate, cedar, shake, or clay without the drawbacks and expense associated with those materials. Steel roofs are tough, durable, and low maintenance. They typically come with a 50-year warranty and last an average of 40–70 years before needing to be replaced.
Your Roof Needs to Be Replaced
If your roof is leaking or has suffered damage from wind, falling debris, or hail, you may be able to repair it, but every roof will reach a point where it just needs to be replaced. If you’ve lost significant numbers of shingles, notice bald spots or granule loss, or have areas that are cracked, broken, or peeling, you may need to replace your roof.
You can extend the life of your roof by having it professionally inspected each year, performing regular preventive maintenance, and attending to issues promptly. But despite best efforts, roofs don’t last forever. Depending on the type and quality of its materials, a roof can be expected to last anywhere from 10 to more than 50 years. If you have harsh weather conditions, a darker roof that absorbs more heat, a flat or gently pitched roof, or a south-facing surface that gets a lot of sun, your roof may age faster than expected. You’ll very likely need to replace your roof sooner if you don’t have it professionally inspected annually, perform regular maintenance, and attend to issues promptly.
If you keep up with regular inspection and preventive maintenance, your roof will last longer, and you'll have fewer issues during its life. If you need to have your roof replaced, this spring is the perfect time. Contact a professional to schedule your replacement!
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