Although home improvement shows would have you consider your kitchen, bathroom, or even the master bedroom as the most important part of your home, in reality, that distinction belongs to an oft-overlooked and less glorified element, the roof. That’s right, this somewhat forgotten feature of your home is arguably the most important aspect as it provides protection and structural support. Therefore, when your roof needs replacement, it is not something you should put off, even though replacement is often expensive.
Promotes Energy Efficiency
The cost of heating and cooling your home can become immensely expensive during times of weather extremes, meaning it is really cold or really hot and humid. Thankfully, having a new roof can mean fewer leaks in your home, improving your home’s insulation, and more. In fact, most modern roofs that are being installed today are much more energy-efficient than older models. Not only that, but if your current roof is damaged, leaking, or worn out, you are likely causing your heating and cooling system to work harder than it should to create a comfortable indoor space. This in turn not only overworks this expensive system but also results in higher energy costs. Therefore, even though it is an investment to have your roof replaced, you will find it makes your entire home more energy efficient, which will save you money in the long run both in energy costs and in wear and tear on your heating and cooling systems.
Adds Value to Your Home
Another way that replacing your roof is advantageous for you as a homeowner is that it can increase your home’s overall value. The fact that you replaced your roof when it was needed shows potential buyers that you have kept up with the necessary maintenance of your home, a fact that will likely bring you more value for your home overall. After all, if you bothered replacing the roof, you likely took care of other needed maintenance as well. It also improves its appearance, increasing its curb appeal, and giving your home an edge, especially in a competitive real estate market.
Improves Safety
Your home’s roof is more than a visual topper on the house meant to look good. It serves the very practical purpose of safeguarding your home from debris, fallen trees, and strong winds. This is in addition to the fact that it repels water, which can be extremely damaging if it enters your home. Roofs will deteriorate over time even if they aren’t hit by anything. The sun and wind can render them unable to withstand the conditions they are designed to protect against. This means that to protect your largest investment, your home, you must ensure that the roof is in good shape and replace it if necessary.
Gives You a Better Warranty
When having a roof installed, it will most likely come with an excellent, updated warranty that will likely cover repairs and maintenance. In fact, a well-maintained asphalt roof can last upwards of 30 years. This means that you will have peace of mind not having to worry about your roof being an expense any longer.
Less Stress
Speaking of peace of mind, having your roof replaced with a new, modern version complete with an updated warranty will mean less stress for you overall as a homeowner. Let’s face it, there is enough you have to worry about as a homeowner when it comes to home maintenance, and worrying over every rain shower or storm due to your old roof is a hassle you just don’t need. Keep in mind, with the warranty that comes along with a new roof, minor repairs will usually be covered by the manufacturer warranty, workmanship warranty, or both. This means you will no longer have to hold your breath worrying about potential damage to your home every time the weather turns nasty.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Roof
Obviously, if you are not sure that it’s time for your roof to be replaced, the easiest way to determine this fact is by having a licensed contractor come to your home and determine the condition of your current roof. However, the following are some signs that it is getting close to time to call in the professionals to replace your roof:
Buckling, Curled, or Missing Shingles
If you glance up towards your roof from your yard and note either curled, buckled or missing shingles, this is a sign that your roof needs to be replaced. When shingles are either missing or curled up and buckled, it can allow moisture to form in the attic, or expose your home to outside elements.
Droopy or Sagging Roof
Another sign that your roof needs replacing is a droopy or sagging look. This can indicate the presence of trapped moisture, sagging spots, or rotting boards. Be sure to look for signs for this at the lowest point on the roof.
Greenery
While greenery in your yard is welcome, moss on your roof can indicate trapped moisture, which in turn means that your roof is letting in moisture. The presence of “greenery” on your roof is a sign that you need to replace your roof.
Daylight Showing Through Roof Decking
When you enter your attic, you should not be able to see daylight peaking through. If you can, this indicates that you have lost shingles as well as flashing or other elements that serve to protect your home from the weather. Therefore, if you can see daylight shining through, this is an obvious sign your roof needs attention.
Leaks
Just because you aren’t experiencing water pouring into your home doesn’t mean water isn’t leaking into your home due through your roof. Go up in your attic and shine a flashlight around the eaves. Look for signs of stains or streaks that could indicate that water is getting through the shingles or that moisture is forming underneath the shingles. Any sort of leak can mean your roof is in need of at least repair if not a replacement.
High Energy Bills
As outlined above, having a properly constructed roof can save you money on your energy costs. The reverse is true as well, though, that a roof that needs replacing can cause your energy bills to skyrocket. Therefore, if you notice your energy bills are increasing, especially if you see some of the other signs listed as well, you can be pretty confident that it’s time for a roof replacement.
Bottom Line: Replace Your Roof When Necessary
After going through the above five reasons to replace your roof as well as noting signs that it’s time for said replacement, know that replacing your roof can be a good idea even though it is a notable expense. No one is claiming that roof replacement is cheap. However, it is a necessary evil in many ways in that it will keep your home in the best shape possible and prevent damage from occurring that could cost you much more down the road. It can also save you money over time as it will ensure your heating and cooling systems aren’t overworked and your home is free of excessive moisture that could lead to mold growth and other expensive issues.
Originally published 9/8/22 - Updated 7/31/31