As an investor, keeping your rental property in good shape is crucial, and for single-family rental homes, this begins with the roof. While a quality roof can last for many years, it will eventually need to be reshingled.
How often should you reshingled your rental property’s roof? To determine this, you need to evaluate the current roof’s age, condition, and materials used.
What affects the lifespan of a property’s roof?
Roof maintenance is a significant part of property management. Reshingling ensures the longevity and structural integrity of your rental property’s roof. Understanding the factors that impact roof lifespan and the signs that reshingling is necessary will allow you to take proactive steps in maintaining your roof.
Factors that affect the lifespan of a roof include:
- Roofing material used
- Climate conditions
- Maintenance practices
- Roof age
Routine inspections will help spot wear and tear, including leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss, all of which may require reshingling.
How often do shingles need to be replaced?
Most shingles last around 20 years. If your roof is older than that, it’s time to plan for a replacement. Even if your roof is not that old, it’s still essential to perform regular inspections. Experts at the National Roofing Contractors Association suggest inspecting your roof twice annually. You can either perform the inspections yourself or hire a qualified professional.
Shingle lifespan by type:
- Composition shingles: 12-20 years
- Asphalt shingles: 15-30 years
- Wood shingles: 20-25 years
While small repairs may extend the life of your roof, time will come when the entire roof should be reshingled.
Extreme weather, including heavy snow, high winds, or constant humidity, can significantly shorten the lifespan of a roof. If your property is in an area affected by such conditions, it’s important to inspect your roof more frequently to ensure it stays structurally sound.
How do you tell if a roof needs replacing?
Warning signs that indicate your roof may need to be replaced include:
- Curled, buckled, or missing shingles
- Sagging, holes, or water damage
Also, check for wood rot and mold, which can spread and cause further damage.
What should a preventive maintenance plan include?
Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for preventing roof damage. Addressing minor issues such as replacing damaged shingles or sealing leaks can help prevent water damage. Additionally, cleaning gutters and removing debris are necessary steps to prolong the life of your roof.
Taking care of your roof is crucial to protecting your investment. By being proactive, you’ll know when it’s time to replace the shingles without any surprises.
At Real Property Management Eclipse, we offer property management services that include managing maintenance schedules for our clients. Contact us or call 425-209-0252 to learn more about our services in Sammamish.
Originally Published on April 19, 2024
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