When was the last time that you actually looked up at your house? We’re not talking about noticing how dirty the upper windows may look. Instead, we’re talking about your roof. Often going unnoticed until there’s a problem, your roof needs a little love and attention.
Over time, your roof can wear out even when you’re on top of routine maintenance. Instead of dreading the cost, it can help to think about the key benefits of a roof replacement. What are the benefits of getting a new roof? Here’s a look at some of the surprising ones.
Makes Insurance Companies Happy
Usually, homeowners are complaining about their insurance companies. Whether it’s a high deductible or fighting to get a claim approved, insurance companies can drive you absolutely nuts. So, why in the world do you want to make your homeowner’s insurance provider’s day? In the long run, it can also benefit you.
Insurance companies love seeing homeowners take care of their properties. When a property is well-maintained, insurance companies tend to worry a little less about dealing with large damage claims. Besides, your insurer is also invested in your property’s value. The value of your property is kind of like collateral, especially when your insurance is tied to your mortgage.
Most insurance companies aren’t going to balk at covering roof replacement costs when asphalt roofs start hitting twenty years of age. Metal, tile, and concrete roofs have noticeably longer lifespans, but twenty years seems to be the average replacement point for most insurers. However, before you have the contractors ripping off your roof double-check your coverage.
Boost Property Value
Whether you’re thinking about putting your home on the market in a few years or hanging onto it, a new roof is one of the best ways of boosting property value. Did you know a new asphalt roof can add an estimated $7,200 in value to your property? This isn’t a number to scoff at. A new roof also adds curb appeal and sometimes this can be priceless.
Potential homebuyers typically check things like the age of the roof before making a decision. Typically, they don’t want to purchase a home that’s going to require a ton of expensive work in the next few years. Simply replacing your old roof may be enough to keep your home from sitting on the market for months.
Improve Safety On Your Property
You’re probably not worried about your roof crashing down on your head. This is usually only a concern when a property falls into years of disrepair. Yes, storms can also bring your roof down. However, we’re presuming the weather isn’t terrible and you’re keeping up with general property maintenance.
Occasionally, there will be times when it’s necessary to clamber up on your roof. Maybe you notice a loose shingle or twigs and small branches collecting in the eaves. Whatever the reason, you’re standing on your roof. The last thing you want is for yourself or a repair professional to take a tumble through your roof. Not only are you looking at hefty roof repair or replacement costs, but if you delay, you might also face medical expenses — making timely leaking roof repairs essential. Your property insurance may not cover all of these types of damages. This isn’t something you want to be on the hook for. Replacing your roof as it nears the end of its lifespan is the best way of ensuring everyone’s safety.
Increase Energy Efficiency
This is more than the latest buzzword, energy efficiency has tons of advantages. Even if you don’t care about the eco benefits of energy efficiency, you’re probably concerned with high heating and cooling costs. Just like energy-efficient appliances can lower household energy bills, sometimes by as much as $500 a year, a new roof can have the same impact. Roofing materials have also advanced over the years making it even easier to keep your home at a comfortable temperature without sky-high electrical bills.
Enjoy Better Air Quality
When you think of indoor air quality, you often turn to your vents and ductwork. Don’t forget about your roof. An older roof can let in allergens like pollen, dust, and debris. There’s also the potential danger of mold and mildew affecting yourself and your loved ones. That’s because when moisture seeps in through your roof, mold and mildew can become potentially serious health concerns.
A new roof effectively prevents allergens from getting into the indoor air. You also don’t need to worry about moisture seeping into the home. So, is it time to start thinking about replacing your old roof completely? Instead of worrying about the potential costs, think of all the benefits you can get and don’t forget, your insurance provider should cover most of your roof replacement costs.
