Your roof’s age may seem a minor detail compared to other aspects of your home. However, knowing this piece of information is crucial and offers significant benefits. Your roof’s age can directly impact many things, from your homeowners insurance to property value. Here are the top reasons why it’s essential to know the age of your roofing system.
To Anticipate Repair or Replacement Costs
Knowing the age of your roof allows you to save and prepare for any future roof repair or replacement. All roofing materials, though durable, are subject to deterioration over time. As they age, the likelihood of leaks, cracks, and other damage increases significantly. Estimating when this might happen allows you to prepare for repair or replacement costs.
To Improve the Safety of Your Home
Like wonky gutters, an old, worn roof can become a safety hazard. It may not sufficiently protect the house from natural elements like wind, rain, snow, or the heavy load of fallen tree branches. Older roofs are more likely to suffer catastrophic failures in severe weather, making them dangerous for the inhabitants and possibly impacting the house’s structural integrity.
To Boost Property Value
Understanding the status of your roof will also assist you in making informed decisions when listing your property for sale. A potential buyer will likely be more interested in a home with a recently replaced or well-maintained roof. On the other hand, a house with an aging roof could see its market valuation drop.
To Increase Energy Efficiency
Older roofs may lack the energy-efficient and insulating properties of more modern materials. That said, your home could be losing valuable heat in the winter and gaining unwanted heat during the summer, which translates to higher energy bills. A new roof is more likely to be equipped with energy-efficient features that can contribute to savings.
Finding Out the Age of Your Roof
Here are a few ways you can figure out your roof’s age:
- Check Home Improvement Records – If you’ve been in your home for the entire life of the roof, check your records or receipts. These will give you a clear indication of when the roof was installed.
- Contact the Previous Homeowner – If you have moved into a house with an existing roof, ask the previous owner or realtor.
- Schedule a Professional Inspection – This is the most effective method if other options fail. A professional roofing contractor has the expertise to estimate the age of your roof based on the condition of the materials.
Choose NorthWest Construction for All Your Roofing Needs!
Knowing how old your roof is and its state of health is crucial for your home’s overall maintenance and value. If you need help with your roof, Northwest Construction is ready to offer professional services. Call us at (313) 277-7676 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation. We serve clients in Dearborn, Taylor, and West Bloomfield, MI.