If you’re an investor, it’s your duty to keep your rental property in good shape, and for single-family rental homes, that begins with the roof. A quality roof will hold up for many years, but eventually, every roof will need to be reshingled.
So, when should you reshingle your rental property’s roof? Start by reviewing the age and condition of the current roof and the type of materials used.
What affects the lifespan of a property’s roof?
Roof maintenance is a crucial aspect of property management, and reshingling plays a central role in ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of your rental property’s roof. Understanding the factors influencing roof lifespan and the signs indicating the need for reshingling enables you to practice proactive maintenance.
Here are key factors that impact a roof’s longevity:
- The roofing material used
- The climate of the area
- The level of maintenance performed
- The age of the roof
Regular inspections will help detect signs of wear and tear, including leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss, all of which are early warnings that reshingling may be necessary.
How often do shingles need to be replaced?
On average, shingles will last about 20 years. If your current roof is at or past that age, it’s time to start planning for a replacement. Even if the property’s roof isn’t that old, it’s still necessary to perform regular inspections to keep track of your roof’s condition.
The National Roofing Contractors Association advises that inspections be performed twice yearly. You can either do these yourself or hire a qualified professional to handle the assessment.
Based on the type of shingles on your property, the cost of replacement and lifespan will vary:
- Composition shingles: 12 to 20 years
- Asphalt shingles: 15 to 30 years
- Wood shingles: 20 to 25 years
While you can extend the life of your property’s roof with spot repairs, eventually, there comes a point when the entire roof should be reshingled.
Climate plays a big role. Storms or other extreme weather—especially high winds or excessive moisture—can hasten the rate of wear on a roof and reduce the life of your shingles. That’s why it’s important to inspect the roof more frequently in high-risk areas to ensure it remains structurally sound.
How do you tell if a roof needs replacing?
During your next inspection, check for the most common warning signs that your roof is starting to fail. For instance, shingles that are curled, buckled, or missing are strong indicators and often signal the need for a replacement.
More advanced issues such as sagging, visible holes, or water damage suggest structural problems. It’s also important to check for wood rot and mold, which can spread and damage surrounding materials.
What should a preventive maintenance plan include?
A thorough maintenance strategy should include regular roof inspections and maintenance checks. Addressing minor issues promptly, including replacing damaged shingles and sealing any weak points, can help prevent water infiltration and structural damage to the property. Additionally, cleaning gutters and clearing roof debris are key to prolonging the roof’s lifespan.
Your property’s roof protects your investment, so proper roof maintenance should never be neglected. Staying proactive means, you won’t have to guess when to replace the shingles—you’ll be ready.
At Real Property Management Diversified, we manage maintenance schedules and coordinate maintenance for your rental assets. Contact us or call 352-854-2221 to learn more about our full-service property management services in Belleview.
Originally Published on April 19, 2024
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