Your roof is your first line of defense against the elements. Neglecting roof maintenance can lead to a domino effect of costly problems, starting with water damage and high energy bills.
Proactive roof maintenance will improve your roof’s aesthetics, but it’s primarily an investment in your property’s safety and long-term value. Here’s why you can’t afford to skip regular maintenance.
- Water damage is costly
By the time you notice signs of water, the damage is done – the water has already been in the roof and possibly the walls for a while. At that point, all you can do is mitigate further damage. However, regular roof maintenance will catch minor issues – like bent nails, problems with flashing, and missing shingles – before they cause serious water damage.
- Emergency roof repairs cost more
The damage caused by deferred maintenance can cause problems that need to be handled immediately, requiring emergency roof repairs on no notice. You can expect to pay premium rates for these services. For commercial buildings, emergency tarping services can cost a lot more than what you’d pay at home. If you’re a business owner, skipping roof maintenance is risky.
- Deferred gutter maintenance can be serious
Gutters are an important part of your roof. Neglecting your gutters may not seem like a big deal, but they need to be kept clear at all times. Gutters provide a clear path for water to drain properly, which reduces the risk of water pooling, seeping into the building, and destroying your siding. If these channels are blocked with leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris, they can’t direct water safely away from the building. Installing gutter guards can help prevent leaves and large debris from collecting in the gutters, but you’ll still need to clean them periodically.
In addition to regular cleaning, don’t forget to inspect your gutters regularly for leaks. A gutter that leaks over a walkway can create a serious slip-and-fall hazard, not to mention the water will rot a wooden deck over time.
- A well-insulated roof saves energy
Your roof’s insulation reduces heat loss in winter and keeps the heat in during summer. The most common way insulation becomes compromised is through water damage. Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and regulates the temperature. However, it won’t help if you have a leak.
If there’s a leak in the roof that you don’t know about, the insulation and drywall will absorb it over time. By the time you notice the drywall cracking in the ceiling, your insulation will likely be ruined. If you notice your heating or cooling bills getting bigger without a rate increase or higher usage, you might need new insulation.
- A well-maintained roof supports property value
When a roof is in good shape, it’s easier to attract potential buyers willing to pay market value. Potential buyers will want to know the roof is structurally sound. If it’s in really bad shape, even offering a discount won’t necessarily get you bids. A well-maintained roof also increases the curb appeal of the property, which helps the whole neighborhood maintain high property values.
- Roof maintenance is often required for insurance
Some insurance policies require proof of maintenance to approve claims related to roof damage. If you don’t perform regular maintenance and have no records of when you’ve had inspections and repairs, you might not get certain claims approved.
Adhering to maintenance guidelines outlined in your policy will help you get claims approved. This is the most important reason to hire a professional roofing contractor to perform regular inspections. Your insurance company won’t accept records of self-inspection if you aren’t a licensed roofer.
- Roof maintenance meets warranty requirements
When you have a warranty on your roof, you’re likely required to perform regular maintenance as a condition of coverage. Check your warranty and keep the required maintenance schedule to maintain your coverage. If you ever need to file a warranty claim, you’ll need documented maintenance records from a professional roofing company that proves you followed the recommended care.
- Regular maintenance protects your building’s interior
A structurally sound roof protects whatever is inside. If it’s a commercial building and your tenant is a business, you’re obligated to keep the roof in good shape and might be held liable for damages caused by a lack of maintenance.
Roof maintenance is a smart investment
Regular roof maintenance is essential. With a proactive approach, you’ll protect the building, everyone’s safety, and your finances. Don’t wait for a major problem to remind you that it’s time for maintenance. Schedule regular inspections and address issues quickly to ensure your property remains safe and maintains market value.
