How much attention do we pay to our homes’ roofs? We may sweep the leaves off and clean the gutters once a year, but beyond that, we often forget about the roof and trust that it will keep us warm (or cool), safe, and protected. Oftentimes, homeowners don’t realize that their roofs are in need of maintenance until real problems occur: leaks, for example, or animal incursions. By this time, the repairs that are required are expensive and extensive.
Instead, smart roof maintenance, which includes regular cleaning and checking for small problems before they become large problems, can be a significant money saver for the average homeowner. In this blog, we’ll outline some of the reasons why it’s a good idea to meticulously maintain your home’s roof.
Regular maintenance extends the roof’s lifespan. Depending on what your roof is made of, you can expect between 20 and 30 useful years before it requires a replacement. These estimates, however, take into consideration proper maintenance in order to maximize longevity. Regular inspection can uncover small problems such as loose shingles, small leaks, or damaged flashing, and solving them early will significantly extend the lifespan of the roof.
Energy savings. Your home’s roof is the most significant barrier that stands between your home and elements such as heat, cold, rain, and snow. When the roof is properly maintained, it can help regulate indoor temperatures, keeping the home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This reduces the need for energy usage to heat and cool, reducing the cost of utility bills.
Preventing mold and water damage. A leaking roof can often cause damage that takes time for the homeowner to see. Small leaks allow for slow water seepage, which can result in health-harming mold as well as water damage, both of which are extremely expensive to fix. Since small leaks are often hard to detect before they become large problems, regular inspections are necessary to identify any leaks.
A well-maintained roof increases your property value. One of the many things home buyers look at when comparing properties is the age and condition of the roof. Since roofs are costly to replace, the health of the roof may be the point that swings a buyer’s decision in your favor. Many sellers lose significant money when it’s time to sell a house but the roof is in poor condition.
It could save you money on insurance premiums. Since many of the problems that can result from a roof in poor condition are covered by insurance, many insurance companies will offer reduced premiums or discounts for homes with properly maintained roofs. If your roof is well maintained, ask your insurance agent about any available discounts that could help lower your bill. In Connecticut, Petruzelo Insurance offers personal and business policies that fit your needs and protect you in the event of roof or home damage. Call us at 866-479-3327 or visit our website for more information.