As a homeowner, one of the last things you probably want to think about is your roof. The only time most homeowners think about their roofs is when there is a storm or when they experience a leak. However, it’s important to put some thought into your roof before these things occur. Here are a few things every home owner should know about their roof that will help them make proactive decisions if needed.
Your Roof Is Not Immortal
The typical lifespan for most asphalt roofs is around 10 to 15 years. Individual shingles may need to be replaced before that if they are damaged or begin to curl or crack. Make sure you know how old the roof is if you’ve purchased a home so you know when a replacement will be due.
You Should Never Put off Roof Repairs
It’s always best to take a proactive approach when it comes to maintaining and fixing your roof. Even a small leak that doesn’t breach the inside of your home could be causing costly damage over time.
Leaks Can Be Tricky
If you notice a leak that seems to mysteriously disappear, don’t assume that your roof has somehow repaired itself. The location of the water in your home doesn’t always indicate the location of the roof leak. Water may travel along beams or other components of your home, leaking out in an entirely different place than the damaged portion of your roof.
You Should Leave Repairs to the Pros
Crawling up on the roof to repair a cracked shingle might seem like a great way to save money, but it will likely cause more damage than it’s worth. Not only is there the possibility of getting hurt, but you may compromise the roof’s structural integrity if you don’t know what you’re doing. No matter how small, roof repairs should always be left to the professionals.
