As an investor, it’s essential to ensure your rental property remains in top condition, beginning with the roof of single-family homes. Quality roofs are long-lasting, but ultimately, all roofs need to be reshingled.
When should you consider reshingling your rental property’s roof? First, obtain crucial information including the age, condition, and material type of the roof to answer this question.
Understanding Roof Lifespan
Essential to property management is roof maintenance, especially reshingling, which ensures the roof’s durability and structural soundness. Being aware of what impacts roof longevity and the signs that point to the need for reshingling is key to maintaining it proactively.
The longevity of a roof is determined by several factors including the type of material, the climate, how well it is maintained, and its age. Frequent inspections aid in identifying signs of wear such as leaks, curled shingles, or lost granules, pointing to possible reshingling needs.
Determining Frequency of Reshingling
Shingles usually last 20 years, so if your roof is older, it might be time to plan for a new one. Regular inspections are crucial to monitor your roof’s condition, even if it isn’t particularly old. The National Roofing Contractors Association suggests conducting roof inspections twice annually. You have the option to inspect the roof yourself or to engage a qualified professional to do so.
You can anticipate the replacement costs based on the type of shingles on your roof. Composition shingles last between 12 and 20 years, and asphalt shingles from 15 to 30 years. Wood shingles are mid-range in terms of longevity, typically lasting 20 to 25 years. Small repairs can extend your roof’s life, but a full reshingling will eventually be required.
Severe winter conditions, intense winds, and high humidity can hasten roof degradation, greatly diminishing shingle lifespan. If your property frequently faces storms or severe weather, increasing roof inspections can help maintain its structural integrity.
Signs a Roof Might Need Reshingling
Whether conducted by you or a contractor, the inspection should focus on detecting common signs of roof failure. Noticing curled, buckled, or missing shingles can indicate that it’s time for a roof replacement. Major indicators of roof failure are sagging, the presence of holes, or signs of water damage. Inspect for wood rot and mold as well, as they can cause damage beyond the shingles. Frequent inspections allow for early detection of small problems.
Implementing Preventative Maintenance
Conducting regular roof inspections and maintenance is crucial for spotting and fixing minor problems before they worsen.
Promptly dealing with small issues, like replacing damaged shingles and sealing leaks, helps prevent water damage and structural issues. Clearing debris and keeping gutters in good condition is vital for avoiding water buildup and extending the roof’s life.
By investing in regular roof care, you protect your investment and boost the property’s appeal and value to future tenants.
A secure roof is crucial for protecting your investment, your tenants, and their possessions in your rental property. A proactive approach to roof maintenance is essential, rather than waiting for issues to occur. If you maintain your roof well, you won’t have to guess when it’s time to replace the shingles; you’ll simply know.
Real Property Management Metro Detroit manages and coordinates all maintenance operations for our clients’ properties. Contact us or call 248-808-6550 to see how we can make your life easier with our expert property management services in Dearborn and nearby.
Originally Published on September 11, 2020
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
