Having a home to call your own is a great achievement, so congratulations. However, it is as much of a responsibility as it is an achievement. Tresnak Roofing notes that the roof is one of the single most expensive installations on the property, so new homeowners must care for it to prevent expensive repairs or replacements.
As a new homeowner, knowing how to care for your roof is important. If you don’t already know, here are some important things to remember.
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The roof isn’t immortal
Yes, roofs and roofing materials have been improved on over the years. They now offer longer protection, improved durability, and longer lifespan. However, this does not mean they are immortal. The typical roof lasts about 10 to 15 years and maybe some more years when properly maintained.
Be sure to find out how old the roof is when purchasing the property. This can give you an idea of how soon you may need to consider replacing it. The roof’s age can also play a significant factor when negotiating the property price. Older roofs are closer to replacement than younger ones and may help you reduce home prices.
Never ignore roof problems and repairs
Purchasing a new home is capital-intensive. Understandably, you may want to take things slow financially following the purchase. However, one of the things you should never compromise on is your roof’s health. Notice a roofing problem? Fix it as soon as possible.
Leaving roofing problems unattended for some time can invite more problems and more expensive repairs. For example, leaving roof leaks can further widen the cracks, cause mold and mildew, expose your home to pests, and cost a lot of money to fix.
Regular inspections and maintenance
Regular inspections and maintenance are the biggest contributors to your roof’s health. Regular inspection can help detect common roofing problems and address them quickly. Doing this can save you a lot of money now and in the future. A properly maintained roof promises improved durability, which saves you from sudden replacement costs.
Speak to a certified roofer in your community to discuss your roof maintenance plan and schedule periodic inspections.
Roof cleaning is important
Algae, moss, debris, and other growths on your roof do not protect it from sun or weather elements. Instead, they compromise the roof’s quality and degrade it. Periodic roof cleaning is recommended to address these problems and prolong your roof’s lifespan.
When cleaning your roof, ensure that the right safety gear is used if you must DIY. You should also ensure that soaps or soap mixtures are washed off the roof’s surface using clean water. If hiring a professional, ensure that they use the right pressure washer.
Maintain the gutter system
Roof gutters are important for many reasons. They collect rainwater, snow, ice, and other precipitation and channel them away through the downspouts. Rain gutters also protect the property’s foundation from water and water-related problems.
Rain gutters can sometimes get clogged by debris, sand, or other substances. The clog may hinder the free flow of water away from the roof and can lead to problems like roof rot. Cleaning the gutters periodically can help prevent this problem and improve your roof’s health.
Understand your roof’s warranty and insurance
There are a lot of things to figure out as a new homeowner. One such thing is your homeowner insurance and your roof’s warranty. The first thing is to confirm if your roof is under warranty and then read the warranty carefully to understand the binding terms and conditions. Knowing these terms can help you avoid making mistakes that could void your warranty. It could also help you secure a replacement roof provided the damage is covered by the warranty.
Not all roofing materials are the same
As a new homeowner, one of the shocking revelations you’ll find is that not all roofing materials are the same. This means you cannot expect the same performance, durability, protection, or price from two different materials.
So, if you’re replacing your roof for any reason, you shouldn’t only consider the aesthetics. Instead, you should consider all the other important factors like your budget, performance and durability, reliability, ease of installation, etc.
You can consult with a roofing contractor like James Kate Roofing & Solar around you to determine which roofing materials are best for you based on your preferences. Professionals can advise you based on location, climatic factors, pricing, etc.
Keeping the above factors in mind can help you improve your experience as a new homeowner while protecting your roof.
