You can only be sure your roof is working properly if your roofing contractor has inspected it and found all its components and structure are in good condition. That said, you can learn more about your roof by asking your roofer the right questions.
ImproveIT! of Atlanta lists below the top questions you should discuss with your roofer to learn more about your roof.
What Type of Roofing System Do I Have?
There are plenty of roofing systems from various manufacturers that have exceptional lifespans and durability. Your recently purchased property might have an algae-resistant roof material that lasts longer than average ones. If the seller did not provide documentation about your roof, you could ask the roofing contractor about the type of roof you have.
How Old Is the Roof?
Your roof’s age lets you know the frequency of maintenance and issues it might have down the road. Older roofs require more maintenance and are more susceptible to damage from extreme weather events. If you’re unsure about your roof’s age and lack any documented reference, your roofing contractor can help you find out the remaining years your roof currently has.
Is There Any Damage to the Roof?
Prioritize keeping your roof healthy. Hiring roofing contractors for inspections and regular maintenance lets them document any damage or issues it might have. They’ll repair any cracks and splits they find. Furthermore, they’ll inform you about any possible attic mold and suggest ways to solve the issues, too.
Is the Roof Built With Proper Roof Ventilation?
Long-lasting roofs have excellent ventilation that dehumidifies the attic. Roofs tend to overheat because all the heat indoors rises to the attic. With attic ventilation, hot air can escape and fresh air from outside can enter. An attic with stable temperatures improves your roofing system’s lifespan. That said, ask the roofing company about the roof’s ventilation system and ways to improve it if needed.
Among all the questions listed above, asking about the roof’s age is vital. This knowledge helps you plan your finances for the repairs and replacements you might need later. Here are more reasons why you should know your roof’s age.
Roof Replacement
Old roofs need replacement. Hiring a roofer helps you know the remaining lifespan it has and the damage it could suffer from the next storm. Knowing your roof’s lifespan helps you know the right time to have a replacement so you can save up or find the proper financing to accomplish your roofing project.
Resale Value
Old roofs can be vulnerable to various issues, but some can be restored enough to increase your property’s resale value. A roofing company can inspect and let you know if restoration is viable or if a replacement is more suitable. During your open house, prospective buyers will ask you about the roof’s age, so knowing it beforehand is a must.
You can easily learn about your roof’s age without hiring a roofing contractor if you can do the following:
Ask the Previous Homeowner
The previous homeowner likely has all the roofing documents you need. You can call them and ask about the roof’s purchase date or warranty coverage.
Ask About the Contractor
The contractor that the previous homeowner worked with may have records of the roof. You can ask the previous homeowners if they remember the contractor they hired. Otherwise, you can call local roof replacement contractors in your area about the property. One of them may have worked on it and can tell you about the roof’s age.
Head to the Government Office
Your local government keeps copies of all residential and commercial building permits in your area. You can contact them to learn about your home’s build date and roof installation.
Check With Your Neighbors
Subdivisions and villages usually have houses built simultaneously. If your neighbors have started replacing their roofs, you might want to consider replacing yours too.
Roof inspections let you know the roof’s current condition. Roof replacement contractors will record any visible and hidden damage and recommend solutions to extend your roof’s lifespan. Here are several benefits of having regular roof inspections:
Prevent Further Damage
Neglected roof damage worsens without proper attention. Small leaks evolve into extensive water damage if not caught early. Hiring experienced roofing contractors ensures they can find and fix the issue without delay.
Save Money
Roof repairs are expensive. Your contractor needs to purchase new materials to fix your damaged roof. However, repairs aren’t permanent or long-term solutions. That said, regular maintenance is much more affordable and effective in boosting your roof’s lifespan and durability.
Avoid Structural Issues
The rafters and sheathing supporting the top layer of asphalt shingles must remain in good shape. A minor leak can introduce moisture, increase the attic’s humidity and promote mold growth. It can eat away at wood components and cause premature rot, adding to your total roof replacement expenses.
Your roofing material will age and deteriorate no matter how well-manufactured or installed it is. Over time, it will require replacement. If you see large areas suffering from curling, cracking and splitting, your roof has a few years left. The same can be said if you have several missing shingles and leaks.
Frequent roof repairs indicate that your roof’s integrity is in bad shape. If you find yourself hiring a roofing contractor almost every quarter, you only have a few years left before it needs a tear-off and full replacement.
A sagging roof means that the sheathing and rafters are rotten or weakened by water damage. If left unattended, it can lead to roof collapse. Immediately hire a roofer to tear off the old roof materials and repair your roofing structure before replacing the entire roofing system.
Your home is in good hands with ImproveIT! of Atlanta. We have accomplished numerous roofing projects in the area. Our team would be happy to answer all your questions and address your concerns. To schedule a consultation, call us at (770) 612-5635, or fill out this contact form. We proudly serve clients in Sandy Springs, Marietta and Alpharetta, GA.
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