Even though you may not think too much about it, your roof is the most important part of your home. Having a good, solid roof means that you and your loved ones are always protected from the elements and from sharing the indoor spaces with unwanted critters. A good roof lets you come home to a nice, cozy atmosphere where you can disconnect from the outside world and relax. However, even if your roof does not get a spot on your daily radar, there may come a time when your roof will need to be replaced. This could happen simply because of its age or because your home just went through a severe weather event.
There may also come a time when you decide to make a major home renovation, adding that extra bathroom, enlarging your kitchen, or building an in-law suite, and your current roof may need to be changed to accommodate these new areas. In either case, always keep in mind how important your roof is, to the point where a new roof can even work to increase the home’s value. Let’s see how.
When should you replace your roof?
You may not be too sure about the signs your roof gives that may require your attention. Some of them may be small, and you may get away with a roof repair, while others may mean that a roof replacement will be unavoidable. When determining if your roof needs replacement, here are some of the signs to watch out for:
Widespread Staining
Stains are an indication that there is damage from moss or algae. Both degrade the shingles and allow water to damage your roof. If you see widespread areas that look stained, Big Al’s Roofing recommends that you waste no time in calling your trusted roofer to come and have a look. Don’t attempt to scrape off any moss or algae; you may end up causing more damage and, in the process, injure yourself.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
If you see a couple of shingles damaged or missing, you may get away with a repair. A large area that is damaged may call for a replacement.
Light Shining Through the Attic
There should never be any light coming in through the roof. When it does, it means your roof has a hole. Depending on its size and location, your roofer will recommend the best course of action.
How can a roof increase the value of your home?
The roof is one of the first things people notice as they drive up or walk towards your home. Besides protecting you from the weather, it is a crucial factor in curb appeal. And an aesthetically pleasing roof will drastically impact the value of the property on which it is placed.
On the other hand, driving up to a house with a roof that has clearly seen better days will send a message that the property has been neglected, and it would be easy to conclude that it is likely that the inside of the house will have been neglected as well.
If you are planning on replacing your roof or have recently done so, remember what an important part of your home the roof is and get in the habit of having regular roof inspection and maintenance performed by expert roofers to preserve the value of the property and make the investment you just put into the home last for a very long time.
What other benefits does a new roof offer?
A roof holds the house together. Without it, the structure would quickly start to crumble. That is why it is important to make sure it always functions as it should by taking care of it regularly. Your roof is also important because:
It Provides Structural Support
It is interesting to compare a roof to the backbone of a house. By providing essential structural support, the entire house can be held together. Without a solid roof holding all the walls in place, your home would also have issues with plumbing, electricity, and even interior design would not stand a chance without being protected by a strong roof. It Provides Insulation for the Home.
It Provides Insulation for the Home
The role a roof plays in insulation cannot be overstated. Without it, your electrical bills would go through the roof! A good roof will help keep all house areas cool during the blazing summer months and warm during the winter. It works as a barrier that prevents the outside temperatures from entering the home. Think first about your roof if your electric bills start to go up or suddenly show a considerable increase. It may have a leak that allows the cool air from your air conditioner to escape.
