As an investor, one of your top priorities is to keep your rental property in good shape. When it comes to single-family rental homes, the roof is a vital component. Although a quality roof will hold up for many years, every roof will eventually need to be reshingled.
So, when should you reshingle your rental property’s roof? The answer depends on several key factors, including the age and condition of the current roof and the type of materials used.
What affects the lifespan of a property’s roof?
Roof maintenance is a crucial aspect of property management. Reshingling helps ensures the longevity and structural integrity of your rental property’s roof. Knowing the factors influencing roof lifespan and the signs indicating the need for reshingling supports proactive maintenance.
The main factors that impact a roof’s longevity include:
- roofing material used
- climate of the area
- level of maintenance performed
- age of the roof
Regular inspections will help you spot signs of wear and tear like leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss, all of which may indicate it’s time for reshingling.
How often do shingles need to be replaced?
Shingles typically last about 20 years. If your roof is that old or older, it’s a good idea to start planning for a replacement. Even if your property’s roof isn’t that old, performing regular inspections to keep track of your roof’s condition is important. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, homeowners should conduct inspections twice a year. You can do them yourself or hire a qualified professional.
The type of shingles on your property can help you budget for the cost of replacement:
- Composition shingles can last 12 to 20 years
- Asphalt shingles can last 15 to 30 years
- Wood shingles can last 20 to 25 years
Although making small repairs can extend the life of your property’s roof, eventually the time will arrive when the entire roof should be reshingled.
Weather conditions like harsh winters, strong winds, and heavy humidity can increase the rate of wear on a roof, shortening the life of your shingles. If your property frequently experiences storms or extreme weather, make sure to inspect the roof regularly to confirm it remains structurally sound.
How do you tell if a roof needs replacing?
Watch for the most common warning signs during inspections. If shingles are curled, buckled, or missing, it might be time to replace the roof.
More serious problems include sagging, visible holes, or water damage. Also, check for signs of wood rot and mold, which can spread and lead to even more damage if left unaddressed.
What should a preventive maintenance plan include?
Ongoing roof inspections and routine maintenance are key to identifying and correcting small issues before they become big headaches.
Act quickly on minor repairs like replacing damaged shingles or sealing leaks to avoid water infiltration and structural harm. Don’t forget to clean debris from the roof and maintain gutters, which are critical for prolonging your roof’s lifespan.
Your property’s roof shields your investment and the safety of your tenants. Proper roof maintenance is vital. By being proactive, you won’t have to guess when it’s time to replace the shingles—you’ll already know.
At Real Property Management Paradise, we manage maintenance schedules and handle repairs for our clients. Contact us or call 352-565-4303 to discover how our property management services in Ocala can assist you.
Originally Published on April 19, 2024
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