One of the most important and least thought about parts of any home is the roof. Unless there’s a sudden problem, we tend not to think about our roofs much.
Yet building experts will tell you that roofs should be replaced every 20 years. In addition to general wear and tear, a key reason to consider investing in a new roof is the advancements in roof technology during that two-decade-plus period.
Let’s take a closer look at why you should think seriously about replacing your roof and the new roof benefits that will come with that.
New Roof Benefits
Just like any other renovation or addition, a new roof comes with a long list of benefits. Aside from ensuring a leak-free lifestyle as well as some rather dependable shade, there are many great reasons to have a new roof installed on your home.
Boost the Value of Your Home
When you invest in a new roof for your home, you’re likely to recoup most of your expenses by increasing the value of your home. Prices for replacing a roof vary according to the size of your home, materials used, and the region in which you live. The good news is that installing a new roof also adds more value to your home — typically by as much as 60% of your costs.
Make Your Home Look Like New
Everyone loves a home makeover. Along with a fresh coat of paint, your home could look brand new with an upgrade in color and/or style of roof.
Keep in mind that, from your street, your home’s roof represents about a third of the viewable elevation of your house. A worn-out roof can negatively affect the way passersby view the quality and condition of your home. A new roof has the opposite effect, almost like a queen with a new crown.
Ensure Your Complete Insurance
Many home insurance policies don’t cover roofs after 20 or more years. Check your homeowners’ policy or contact your insurance agent to find out whether your roof is covered fully, partially, or not at all. A new roof can ensure that you’re covered in case of hail, wind, fire, or other damage.
Maximize Your Energy Efficiency
Your home’s roof is your number-one defense against the effects of weather, heat, cold, wind, and extreme events. Just like the quality of your windows, insulation, carpet, and other household furnishings and appliances, your roof also plays a significant role in your home’s energy efficiency.
In the roofing industry, a lot of improvements can happen in 20 or 30 years. Tile manufacturers are regularly coming out with new and improved roofing materials that can lower your energy costs while ensuring a pleasant climate inside.
Health and Safety
When moisture gets in a house and stays there, it can cause an assortment of problems including rot and mold — most of which often go unnoticed for years at a time. A new roof helps ensure that your home stays dry and that the air inside is clean and healthy.
Additionally, an old roof wears out over time, causing the shingles to smooth out and become slippery. If any rot has occurred under the roof, it can pose a significant hazard to anyone walking on the roof (while hanging holiday lights, for example).
Reboot Your Home’s Warranty
A new roof comes with a new warranty… which also protects other parts of your home from damage caused by roof deficiencies or extreme weather. It’s one of the hidden benefits of renovating certain features of your home such as the carpet or windows.
Do You Need a New Roof?
Even if your home’s roof is 20 or more years old, it may look okay at a glance by the casual observer. But a closer inspection of specific details can tell you whether your roof needs replacing.
When examining the condition of your roof, look for the following:
- Loose shingles
- Closely inspect the inside and underside of your roof for any leaks, holes, or cracks
- Cracks or breaks on or near vents and seals
- Sagging (which may indicate rot)
- Visible mold or vegetation growing in any spot on the roof
- Check your records to determine the age of your roof
Keep in mind that in some cases it’s possible a small repair could be made instead of an entire roof replacement.
Better yet, get a free inspection. At VPC Builders, you can get a complimentary assessment of your roof to pinpoint any problems and help you determine whether a replacement is necessary.
Contact VPC Builders for a New Roof and More
At VPC Builders, we perform all manner of home and commercial building renovations, including roofs. If you have questions about roof repair or replacement, contact our team today. We’re always happy to walk you through each step of the process.