Mar 022021

3 Reasons to Repair or Replace a Roof

3 Reasons to Repair or Replace a Roof

A leak is a definite reason to replace a roof but there are other reasons, too. This article will explore some of them for reasons as to why you might need to enlist the help of, for example, roofing contractors alexandria va. Roofing is a professional job, not just for health and safety reasons but for reasons of the work needing to be up to a high standard so that the contents of a home are fully protected.

Age

Old roofs need replacing or they will let you down. As a rule of thumb, if a roof is over 20 years old, whether it has given you trouble yet or not, it ought to be looked at by a roofing contractor. It is peace of mind to know that your family and household contents are protected from the elements for a future guaranteed period. It only requires a short inspection from someone qualified to ascertain whether the roof needs repairing, or in some cases, replacing altogether. It can often be cost-effective to replace the whole roof rather than keep having it repaired in different areas. It will all, after all, be of the same age. Certain roofing materials are harder wearing than others and none last indefinitely.

If you buy an old property, the first thing that you should consider is its roof. It is part of the main structure of the house and should be up to the job. House surveys do not pick everything up, because some surveys can just be basic ones to satisfy mortgage companies. It will, however, be your problem as the householder if significant repairs are required when something could have been noticed sooner.

The most durable materials for a roof, that will age best, are asphalt (the most common), clay tile, slate, metal, and wood shake. A roofing contractor can advise you on the best material to suit your long term needs. It depends on if you are planning to resell the house in not too many years or stay for longer. You have to balance the investment made against how long you need it to last for your needs.

Green Roof or Ceiling Discolouration

A roof that is green or discoloured, but not for any environmental gains or visual effects, or a ceiling that is watermarked, represent telltale signs that a roof might need some attention. It is aesthetically pleasing not to see these things anyway. It can be difficult to see if a roof needs maintenance when it is green, so it is best to keep it clean so that any problems can be easily inspected and rectified at the earliest possible opportunity.

A Recent Storm

It is always worth checking a roof after a recent storm for any damage. This will save on more costly repairs in the long run, should a leak end up causing significant damage, or a damaged roof worsen in condition. It is better to act quickly to protect the property inside a home. If the storm has resulted in a roof now missing a shingle then this can be easily replaced before more damage results and more shingles end up missing or lost.

The work of professional roofing contractors is guaranteed, so if anything further needs doing after work has been carried out, then this has already been paid for.

So, some definite reasons to have a roof repaired, or if beyond repair, replaced. It is a preventable situation where furnishings and household contents can be protected. There is also the safety aspect to consider, given that the roof is situated directly above everyone’s head.