As an investor, it’s essential to ensure your rental property remains in top condition, beginning with the roof of single-family homes. Even the best roofs will eventually need reshingling, despite lasting for many years.
How regularly should you reshingle the roof of your rental property? Before answering this, gather essential details such as the age, condition, and materials of the current roof.
Understanding Roof Lifespan
A fundamental aspect of property management is roof maintenance, where reshingling plays a critical role in keeping the roof structurally sound and durable. Understanding the elements that determine roof life and the indicators for reshingling are fundamental for proactive maintenance.
Factors such as the roofing material, local climate, maintenance levels, and the roof’s age all contribute to its longevity. Conducting regular inspections helps detect wear and tear signs like leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss, which suggest the need for reshingling.
Determining Frequency of Reshingling
Shingles generally have a lifespan of about 20 years, so if your roof is older, planning for its replacement is advisable. Keeping up with regular roof inspections is essential, even if the roof isn’t very old, to maintain its condition. The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends two roof inspections per year. You have the option to inspect the roof yourself or to engage a qualified professional to do so.
Based on your roof’s shingle type, you should plan the replacement costs ahead of time. Generally, composition shingles endure 12 to 20 years, and asphalt shingles 15 to 30 years. Wood shingles are mid-range in terms of longevity, typically lasting 20 to 25 years. Small repairs may delay the need, but eventually, your roof will require complete reshingling.
Harsh winters, strong winds, and constant humidity can accelerate roof wear, significantly shortening shingle life. Frequent roof inspections are necessary for properties in areas subject to storms or extreme weather to keep them structurally sound.
Signs a Roof Might Need Reshingling
During roof inspections, either you or your contractor should be vigilant for common failure signs. Seeing curled, buckled, or absent shingles typically suggests the roof needs replacing. Sagging, holes, and water damage are critical signs that your roof is failing. Inspect for wood rot and mold as well, as they can cause damage beyond the shingles. Conducting inspections regularly enables you to address small issues promptly.
Implementing Preventative Maintenance
It’s important to carry out routine roof inspections and maintenance to catch and resolve small issues before they become major.
Quick resolution of minor problems, such as replacing damaged shingles and fixing leaks, prevents water entry and protects the structure. Keeping gutters clean and clearing debris are essential actions to prevent water buildup and lengthen the life of the roof.
By investing in regular roof care, you protect your investment and boost the property’s appeal and value to future tenants.
The roof plays a crucial role in protecting your rental property, your tenants, and their possessions. Proactive roof maintenance is crucial, rather than waiting for problems to necessitate action. By being proactive, you eliminate the guesswork about when to replace shingles because you’ll be well-informed.
We at Real Property Management Diversified oversee maintenance schedules and coordinate upkeep for our clients’ properties. Contact us or call 352-854-2221 to see how we can make your life easier with our expert property management services in Belleview and nearby.
Originally Published on September 11, 2020
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