Have you ever lagged on having a roof inspection done? If there were no apparent issues or pervasive problems, then you probably got lucky! Roofing problems can lead to bigger issues that may impair your home or business’ infrastructure. Roofs are on the front line of elemental exposure, such as wind and water damage. In turn, these structural protectors also take quite a beating and deserve nothing less than routine inspection. Waiting to have it done isn’t worth the problems that can come along later. Here are four major reasons why regular roof inspections are downright practical and smart.
A Good Way to Get the Lowdown
During the property buying process, many people avoid getting a thorough home inspection that includes taking a look over the roof. It’s an easy way to detect roof-related issues that could lead to future roof repair or replacement. If you’ve been owned or resided in the space for a while, getting regular roof inspections is still a great habit to get into practicing. A problem you may not have noticed can be detected before irreparable damage takes place. Speaking of early detection…
Preventative Maintenance
It’s amazing how regular roof inspections can deter disasters. According to the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association (NRCIA), roof deficiencies account for almost 40 percent of property insurance claims and are the most frequently reported structural problem.
Experts from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, also known as NARI, recommend having your roof inspected at least twice a year. There are two optimal seasons for having a roof inspected. The first is during the spring to help assess winter damage, seal cracks to prevent water leaks from forthcoming summer storms, and to replace any missing roofing components. The second time of year to have a roof inspection is during the fall. Autumn roof inspections help prepare your roof for winter weather, a time when cold winds and ice dams can wreak havoc on the roof.
A Little Repair Today Can Save Money Later
Roofs that receive regular inspection tend to last longer than untended roofs, which typically last half the amount of time. If you think about it, spending money to replace a roof with a shorter shelf life means spending twice what you would have if you’d just paid a fraction of that cost for a roof inspection.
According to cost estimate information from the Cleveland Heights’ Home Repair Resource Center, the average price of replacing a roof on a standard two-story , single-family home can run up to $5,600. Roofs don’t last forever and do need to be replaced sooner or later. Roof inspections can encourage the ‘later’ portion of that adage by extending the life of a roof.
Timely Repairs Help Keep Property Value Intact
Keeping property values in a respectable, fiscally healthy zone involves some maintenance and upkeep. Regular roof inspections should be at the top of this list. We talked with BSU Roofing & Construction who said, “The roof is one of the most noticeable parts of a property, quick to stand out when in stellar condition — or in terrible shape. A good looking roof is attractive and has curb appeal. Appearance alone is enough to pique consumer interest, at least initially.”
Of course, what’s ‘underneath the hood’ also matters. Just like a car, roofs need regular servicing to stay in tip-top condition and that’s where roof inspections come into play. When it looks good on the outside, there’s a good chance things are good on the inside. Regular roof inspections can help keep roofs from buckling and sagging (cosmetic flaws that can easily been seen from the outside). Well-maintained properties have higher property value, plain and simple. Routine roof inspections can help keep it that way.
