Being a homeowner has its responsibilities and neglecting any of them can have unfortunate consequences for your home. Nowhere is this more evident than in roof replacement. If you have noticed that your roof is in poor condition or has recently been damaged, it is important to have it repaired or replaced to prevent damage to your home.
Protecting your home
For most people, their home is a very important place, where they rest with their family, recharge their batteries, and store prized possessions. Helping protect this sanctuary starts on the roof.
There are several reasons why homeowners delay their roofing project, the most common being cost-related. A new roof can be a large financial commitment, however, most contractors offer financing that helps spread the cost into more affordable payments. Another major reason you might put off replacing your roof is scheduling. You might think that you don’t have time available for this project. However, most people may be surprised at how quickly an actual roof can be replaced once the roofing crew gets started. Most roofs can be replaced in 1 or 2 days. Therefore, time commitment should not be a deterrent.
The Risks of Neglecting Your Roof Replacement
To take care of your home you need its exterior defenses, such as windows, walls and roof. Many people overlook the roof because of its location. In some cases if there is a leak, you may think that replacing your roof can wait.
However, a roof that has lost its ability to protect your home could put at risk not only your savings, but also your valuable possessions, as well as the integrity and security of your home.
Expensive and widespread damage
Water takes the path of least resistance and can seep into the attic and interior walls before being detected, causing mold and mildew to grow. And if that weren’t enough, replacing rotted wood and framing throughout your home can be a very expensive and time-consuming process.
Hidden Safety Hazards for You and Your Family
In addition to cosmetic damage, a leaky roof also carries hidden risks. Depending on conditions, mold and mildew can begin to grow on wet surfaces within 24 to 48 hours of exposure to water. Deterioration of the structural components of your home may begin to develop, making floors and stairs unsafe.
Replacing your possessions
Most people don’t consider the potential damage to wallpaper, carpeting, flooring, or furniture if a roof leak is ignored to the point of significant water intrusion, not to mention any irreplaceable old items or photographs stored in the attic. If this happens, you could spend more time interacting with other contractors or your hard- earned money replacing your items.
Decreased property values
Roof problems identified during a home inspection or walk-through could reduce your chances of receiving the asking price. Buyers may ask you to replace the roof before selling or offer a lower offer.
