You may tend to overlook your roof, but it's actually one of the most important component of your home - and the most vulnerable. It protects you from the elements like rain, snow and sun, but roofs don't last forever!
You may not think about the importance of roofs until you, a neighbor, or a friend has a situation that causes a reality check. So, when it comes to roof maintenance, there are two key questions you should be asking:
How long does a roof last? According to the Good Housekeeping magazine, shingle roofs should last between 15-30 years (if you have a different type of roof, such as metal or clay tile, you may have to follow different rules). If your home is new or the roof was recently replaced, you should be in the clear. However, it doesn't hurt to do a checkup after getting hit with severe weather like a hailstorm, ice and snow or crazy rain.
Here are eight warning signs to look for:
- Loose shingle tabs
- Cracks in shingles
- Broken or missing tabs
- Buckling or curling shingles
- Shingles covered in moss or algae
- Majority of granules worn off tabs
- Sunlight is shining through the attic
- Extensive leaking
- Collage of roof damage images
According to Home Advisor, a roof replacement can range anywhere from $6,000 to $12,000. The size of your home, the materials used and where you live will affect that price range. It's no small sum, but in return for the investment, you'll add thousands of dollars to the resale value of your home and ensure a safe and habitable dwelling for years to come. Don't need a new roof right now? Do a quick check each month to see if maintenance is needed. If you notice problems like missing shingles or signs of water damage, be sure to call a roofing specialist to make the repairs as soon as possible - it could save you a bundle by prolonging the life of your roof and stopping costly leaks in their tracks.
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