As a homeowner, you want to make sure all of your bases are covered when it comes to your house. Starting with your roof, there are many items to know about it in order to be prepared. If you aren’t educated on your roof, how can you take care of it? That’s why the experts at Royalty Roofing have created a list of the basic items a homeowner should know about their roof.
Roofing Budget
Planning ahead for any big purchase can be super helpful. In the case of your roof, it’s better to set aside money for unexpected roof repairs. “How much should I be budgeting for roof repairs?” is a sticky question but we have a trick for you. First, subtract the number of years your roof has been in place from its life expectancy (most roofs have a 20-year life expectancy).
Example: My roof is 7 years old and the life expectancy is 20 years (20-7=13).
Next, you will need to find out what it will cost to have it replaced (the average is $7,500). Finally, you will divide that by the number of months you expect your current roof to hold up. That is the magic number of how much to save each month. (7,500/156=48.07)
Spotting a Problem
We don’t recommend getting on your roof to inspect it for issues but there are a few items you can keep your eyes on to spot any problems. You should keep an eye on the areas surrounding your chimney and the boots that surround your kitchen and bathroom ventilation. A great method to see your shingles from the ground is to take out a pair of binoculars. Look for balding and cracked shingles, along with any loose nails. You’ll want to contact a contractor if you see anything major.
Gutter Maintenance
Did you know? Clogged gutters can actually cause damage to your roof. By not cleaning your gutters, you are allowing water to gather on your roof. If water sits on a roof for too long, it could cause more issues like mold and rot. Packed gutters also hold a lot of weight. If not cleaned, they could rip from your home and cause more damage.
Smart Investments
Another thing you should know about your roof is that it is a smart investment. Your home is in jeopardy if you don’t invest enough time and money into it. A leak may be minor to you, but to your home, it could cause structural damage, mold, and other costly issues. Thankfully, roof repairs are much more affordable when compared to replacing it as a whole.
Being a homeowner comes with a lot of responsibility and we want you to be prepared when it comes to your roof. Hopefully, these tips will help you care for your roof and avoid any issues down the road. If you have any questions regarding your roof or any home projects, Royalty Roofing would love to help you. For a free estimate, contact us today!
