For an investor, keeping your rental property well-maintained is imperative, especially starting with the roof of single-family homes. A durable roof can withstand many years, but reshingling is inevitable.
At what intervals should you reshingle your rental property’s roof? Answering this query necessitates collecting important details, such as the roof’s age, condition, and the materials involved.
Understanding Roof Lifespan
Maintaining the roof is vital for property management, particularly reshingling, which preserves the roof’s longevity and structural integrity. Being aware of what impacts roof longevity and the signs that point to the need for reshingling is key to maintaining it proactively.
The longevity of a roof is determined by several factors including the type of material, the climate, how well it is maintained, and its age. Through consistent inspections, signs of deterioration such as leaks, curling shingles, and granule loss can be identified, suggesting that reshingling might be necessary.
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. Roofing experts at the National Roofing Contractors Association recommend inspecting your roof twice each year. Either conduct the inspections yourself or consider hiring a qualified professional to do them.
You can anticipate the replacement costs based on the type of shingles on your roof. While composition shingles usually last up to 20 years, asphalt shingles may last as long as 30 years. Wood shingles are mid-range in terms of longevity, typically lasting 20 to 25 years. Small repairs can extend your roof’s life, but a full reshingling will eventually be required.
Harsh winters, strong winds, and constant humidity can accelerate roof wear, significantly shortening shingle life. If your property frequently faces storms or severe weather, increasing roof inspections can help maintain its structural integrity.
Signs a Roof Might Need Reshingling
Keep an eye out for common indicators of a failing roof during inspections, either done by you or a contractor. Seeing curled, buckled, or absent shingles typically suggests the roof needs replacing. Major indicators of roof failure are sagging, the presence of holes, or signs of water damage. Checking for wood rot and mold is wise, as they can extend damage beyond the shingles. Regular inspections help you identify minor issues before they escalate.
Implementing Preventative Maintenance
Regularly inspecting and maintaining your roof helps prevent small issues from developing into larger problems.
Tackling minor issues quickly, such as replacing broken shingles and sealing any leaks, prevents water damage and preserves the structural integrity. Removing debris and regularly maintaining gutters play key roles in preventing water accumulation and enhancing roof longevity.
Proactive care for your roof safeguards your investment and makes the property more valuable and appealing to potential renters.
Your rental property’s roof is key to protecting both your investment and the personal property of your tenants. Taking a proactive stance on roof maintenance is preferable to waiting for problems to emerge. Proactive maintenance ensures you are aware of when it’s time to replace the shingles, removing any uncertainty.
Real Property Management Greater Milwaukee takes care of both scheduling maintenance and coordinating these efforts for our clients’ properties. Contact us or call 262-309-6961 to see how we can make your life easier with our expert property management services in Greenfield and nearby.
Originally Published on September 11, 2020
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