Your roof is one of the most important components of your home, as it protects your family and belongings from the elements. While a home roof replacement isn’t something you want to rush into, it’s also not something you can safely delay. Timing is everything when it comes to purchasing a new roof, as you must carefully balance the desire to utilize the most from your existing roof while preventing needless, expensive damage from waiting too long to replace your old roof.
If you’re looking for some reassurances that you’re making the right decision to invest in a new roof, here are some dire consequences that can result from prolonging a home roof replacement.
Water Damage
If your roof is older and in need of replacement, prolonging the purchase of a new roof could result in water damage. The water will not only rot your roof but could lead to even more damage to your home. If you spot signs of water damage, it’s important to act quickly before extensive water damage occurs to your walls, ceilings, and attic.
Structural Damage
If moisture caused by water leaks reaches the decking, plywood, rafters, timbers, or structural beams, rot can form. The formation of rot can result in a dangerous structural situation as it can sometimes cause a roof to cave in or collapse.
Fire Hazard
If moisture comes into contact with the electrical cables or outlets in your ceilings and walls, this can cause catastrophic electrical damage as well as the potential risk of an electrical fire.
Health Hazard
In addition to causing physical damage to your home, water leakage can also encourage the growth of dangerous mold and mildew which can cause serious and harmful health concerns to those living in your home.
Loss of Energy Efficiency
An aging roof may also result in higher utility bills as an older roof doesn’t provide as much protection against the weather elements. If you want to reduce energy consumption and lower your utility costs, then a roof replacement is a wise investment.
Less Protection
In addition to lower energy efficiency, an old roof in need of a home roof replacement won’t provide nearly as much protection leading to safety concerns for your family and visitors. Harsh winds, heavy rain, snow, and ice can become difficult for an aging, weakened roof to withstand, making it more prone to damage. For example, an old roof may not even be able to handle a fallen tree branch without sustaining major damage.
Potential Pest Infestation
Old, brittle shingles may deteriorate to the point of inviting unwanted pests into your home, including rodents and insects.
Financial Hardship
Waiting too long to replace your roof can have dire consequences, especially in terms of your finances. Choosing to do a roof replacement on time versus waiting until major signs of trouble, like structural damage for example, will actually save you lots of money in the long run.
Decreased Resale Value
Aside from all of the safety hazards and structural damage listed above, an old, ugly roof will negatively affect the resale value of your home should you ever decide to sell.
Ready for a New Roof?
A new roof is a significant financial investment, so it’s understandable why some homeowners may choose to delay a roof replacement. While it’s tempting to put it off, your roof is the one part of your home you don’t want to ignore until disaster strikes. If you’re ready to lay your old roof to rest, contact your local, trusted roofing professionals at Armorvue Home Exteriors today. We’ve been helping homeowners in this community check exterior home improvements off their list for decades, and we can help guide you to the perfect new roof for your home. Contact us today for a virtual appointment.
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