When surveying a home, you probably notice the landscape and the exterior first. These are enough to grab your attention and make you want to take a tour of the home. Whether you’re wanting to buy or rent, your first impression of a home is generally made up of these features.
What many people fail to inspect, however, are several of the most critical elements of a home’s overall construction. This includes the foundation, driveway, pathways, structure of the walls, and the roof… nothing like simple home improvement projects.
Your home’s roof is far and away the most important feature of your home. Think about it like this; is a house actually a house without a roof? If you’re still trying to guess, the answer is no.
The quality and construction of your roof play a huge role in the value of your home. Since the roof is what takes the brunt of all of nature’s elements, a roof loses its structural integrity over time and needs to be repaired.
Here, we’ll outline the importance of a sound roof and why it matters to you.
The Truth About Your Roof
No matter where you live, you have to keep yourself and your family safe from the elements. While homeowners in the deep south have to worry about above-average rainfall, high winds, and damage from trees, those who live in the northern tier of the country have to weather harsh, cold conditions.
For example, if you live in Minneapolis, you probably know firsthand of the brutal winters. Thankfully, Minneapolis roofing companies can assist you when your roof needs repair.
The truth is, no matter where you live, your roof needs to be inspected for damage every five years. And, it’s often recommended that a roof be replaced or reshingled after 10 to 15 years.
We might not always see the damage that natural elements can cause, but if they wear down your roof over time, without repair, you’ll be looking at a much costlier expense.
Reasons to Keep Your Roof in Good Condition
Aside from the obvious, that your roof protects your head from the sun, the rain, and all of the elements, there are several reasons why you should maintain the integrity of your roof.
Energy Efficiency
A roof that’s in tip-top condition is also properly insulated. You have no cracks, therefore no leaks. And, you’ll also have your cooling system working at an optimal performance level.
If a roof is out of shape, cracked, or poorly insulated, your energy costs are liable to skyrocket. A well-kept roof allows for you to keep a regulated temperature within the home, resulting in more comfort for you and your family.
Home Value
A home with a poor roof is likely to cost you money or will make you lose out on getting top dollar amounts when it comes time to sell or rent your home. Additionally, an appealing roof gives you better curb appeal and is likely to help attract buyers if you’re interested in selling your home in the future.
Health Issues
If you have a weathered roof, chances are your roof is cracked and perhaps leaking during rainstorms. In addition to this, over time, wildlife can enter into the crawlspace or attic and make themselves right at home.
These conditions can cause significant health risks for you and your family. A leaking roof can be a cause of mold and mildew. Once this begins to grow, it not only poses a serious respiratory health risk, removing the mold will be an additional expense alongside repairing the roof.
Take Preventative Action
If you notice your roof beginning to get worn, or if you can see cracks or evidence of animals entering your roof, it’s time to call your local roofing company.
The key is to perform preventative care on your roof before you end up with problems that are extremely costly to repair. Ensure that your roof is inspected every five years or sooner if you live in harsh environments. This will mitigate any costly repairs in the future.
