Homeownership is an achievement to be proud of and one that invites many great benefits. However, it also comes with a host of responsibilities.
Your home's roof requires just as much attention as all other areas of the house. If you've noticed your shingles are in bad shape, your roof seems to be buckling, or moisture patches are appearing inside the top floor, the worst thing you can do is neglect your roof's immediate needs.
In this blog, we'll review all the potential issues that can arise from relying on a worn roof to protect your house. We'll also discuss the immediate and long-term benefits of investing in a replacement from a reputable roofing company.
Let's dive right in!
Your Home Is Left Vulnerable to the Elements
Your home is a significant financial investment and a haven providing space for you and your family to relax, rejuvenate, and safeguard your belongings. Your home's first line of defense is the roof, so keeping your roof in tip-top shape is of paramount importance.
When a home is covered by an impaired roof for too long, here's what you can expect:
- Moisture infiltration
- Poor temperature regulation
- Electrical hazards
- Pest infestations
- Mold and mildew growth
- Interior/exterior structural damage
Roof neglect is a gateway to issues that seriously impair the integrity of your home. These side effects of a damaged roof have the potential to significantly reduce your home's safety and value, so much so that the cost of failing to deal with these issues far outweighs the price of roofing work.
Your Damaged Roof Could Become a Liability
Dislodged and poorly attached shingles might seem like an unimportant issue with your roof. However, the risk of leaving them inadequately secured to your roof escalates when the roofing system becomes aged and frail, increasing the likelihood of shingles being blown off.
Loosely hanging shingles may eventually drop under their own weight, especially in the aftermath of a storm that leaves them dangling for days or weeks. So, what's the harm?
Damaged Roofs = Harm to Humans
Unsecured shingles or exposed nails can cause physical injury that you may have to assume responsibility for if you've left your roof in a state of disrepair.
Lack of Roof Insurance
Another possibility is having to bear the total cost of new roofing expenses because homeowners' insurance may not cover it. In some cases, claims may be denied when roof replacement is delayed. With this in mind, we encourage you to communicate with your insurer about the timing of roof replacement to avoid unexpected surprises later.
Expired Roof Warranty
Once the roofing system passes its manufacturer's warranty, the protection the warranty could've offered is forfeited. This far too common situation may result in additional costs that could have been avoided by addressing roofing issues before the warranty expired.
Delaying Roofing Work Could Cost You More Money Down the Road
When deciding to replace your roof, thoroughly evaluating the expenses is crucial. Weighing the cost of roof replacement against the potential expenses that may arise from postponing the re-roofing of your home is essential.
These costs might include escalating maintenance needs as the frequency of necessary repairs increases. Consideration should also be given to the overall value of your home. If you're planning to list your property soon, investing in a new roof can enhance its market value, leading to a higher selling price.
Neglected Roofing Can Attract Rodents and Pests
It's not uncommon for aging and more fragile roofing to degrade, creating openings that allow rodents, insects, and other unwelcome guests to access your attic. Once an infestation takes hold, halting it can prove challenging.
Rodents can damage your home's insulation as they use it for nesting. However, the issue doesn't stop there. Pest infestations can extend beyond the attic, affecting the rest of your building.
While addressing roof repairs and implementing measures to rodent-proof your attic can mitigate the risk of these critters infiltrating, opting for a new roofing system can provide additional protection.
Benefits of Investing in a Replacement
Now that we've covered the risks and dangers of delaying a roof replacement, we'll review the short and long-term benefits of replacing your roof when it's time.
Short-Term Benefits of Roof Replacement
Increased Safety: Arguably, the most critical aspect of a roof replacement project is the heightened safety and security it brings. You can rest easy knowing your roof is tightly sealed against outside elements that could cause damage to your treasured space.
Better Curb Appeal: Available in a variety of styles and colors, a new roof can significantly enhance the look of your home with increased curb appeal.
Better Energy Efficiency: Replacing your roof enhances energy efficiency and reduces the workload on your HVAC system. By regulating the roof's surface temperature and providing a barrier against outside elements, a well-working roof can ensure you save on your energy costs.
Long-Term Benefits of Roof Replacement
Better Insurance Rates: Opting for an energy-efficient roof replacement enhances your home's security and efficiency and can qualify you for improved home insurance rates.
Reduced Maintenance Costs: A new, modern roof eliminates the risk of premature deterioration, reducing the need for frequent maintenance that can quickly increase expenses.
Enjoy Better Warranties: Many roofing companies offer extended or lifetime warranties on replacements. Consider this a valuable feature that adds considerable appeal to homes and often justifies a higher price for potential buyers.
Conclusion
There's no denying the benefits of replacing a worn or damaged roof that far exceeds its life expiration date.
If your home is due for a new, modern, robust roof, the dependable team at Diamond Home Remodeling Inc. is here to help. We're the area's best local roofing team, committed to providing affordable and top-quality roofing repairs and replacements. Phone us today at (410) 875-7229 to take advantage of our industry expertise and find out more about the advantages of a roof replacement.