Investors must prioritize maintaining their rental properties, particularly the roofs of single-family homes. Quality roofs are long-lasting, but ultimately, all roofs need to be reshingled.
What is the recommended frequency for reshingling the roof of your rental property? Answering this query necessitates collecting important details, such as the roof’s age, condition, and the materials involved.
Understanding Roof Lifespan
Reshingling is central to roof maintenance in property management, crucial for maintaining the roof’s longevity and structural integrity. It is vital to comprehend what influences a roof’s lifespan and to recognize the indicators that suggest reshingling is necessary for proactive maintenance.
A roof’s durability is influenced by factors like the materials used, the area’s climate, maintenance standards, and the roof’s age. Routine inspections are useful for spotting wear and tear signs—leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss—signaling that reshingling might be required.
Determining Frequency of Reshingling
Since most shingles last around 20 years, an older roof likely necessitates planning for replacement. Conducting regular inspections is key to maintaining your roof in good condition, no matter its age. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, it’s best to inspect your roof twice a year. Inspections can be conducted personally, or you can employ a professional to handle them.
The cost of replacing your roof can be planned in advance, based on the type of shingles used. While composition shingles usually last up to 20 years, asphalt shingles may last as long as 30 years. Wood shingles generally endure for about 20 to 25 years, placing them in the mid-range category. 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. More regular roof inspections are recommended for properties in storm-hit or extreme weather regions to ensure structural stability.
Signs a Roof Might Need Reshingling
Keep an eye out for common indicators of a failing roof during inspections, either done by you or a contractor. The presence of curled, buckled, or entirely missing shingles often signals a need for roof replacement. Major indicators of roof failure are sagging, the presence of holes, or signs of water damage. It is advisable to also look for wood rot and mold, which can damage more than the shingles. Frequent inspections allow for early detection of small problems.
Implementing Preventative Maintenance
Routine inspections and maintenance of the roof are essential to detect and rectify minor issues early on.
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.
Taking proactive steps in roof maintenance enhances the property’s value and attractiveness to potential tenants, protecting your investment.
A secure roof is crucial for protecting your investment, your tenants, and their possessions in your rental property. It is better to proactively maintain the roof rather than waiting for issues to arise. Proactive maintenance ensures you are aware of when it’s time to replace the shingles, removing any uncertainty.
Real Property Management Optimum manages and coordinates all maintenance operations for our clients’ properties. Contact us or call 320-289-4649 to see how we can make your life easier with our expert property management services in Moorhead and nearby.
Originally Published on September 11, 2020
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