As an investor, it’s essential to keep your rental property in good shape. For single-family rental homes, that begins with the roof. A quality roof will last many years, but eventually, it will need to be reshingled.
So, how often should you reshingled your rental property’s roof? To answer that, consider the age, condition, and materials of the current roof.
What affects the lifespan of a property’s roof?
Roof maintenance is a vital part of property management. Reshingling is crucial in ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of your rental property’s roof. It’s important to understand the factors that affect a roof’s longevity and the signs that it needs reshingling.
Key factors impacting roof lifespan include:
- Roofing material used
- Climate conditions
- Maintenance frequency
- Roof’s age
Regular inspections are key to spotting signs of wear, such as leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss—indicators that reshingling may be necessary.
How often do shingles need to be replaced?
Shingles generally last about 20 years. If your roof is older than this, it’s time to start planning for a replacement. Even if your roof is younger, regular inspections are essential to monitor its condition. Experts from the National Roofing Contractors Association recommend inspecting your roof twice a year. These inspections can be done yourself or by a qualified contractor.
Types of shingles and their lifespan:
- Composition shingles: 12-20 years
- Asphalt shingles: 15-30 years
- Wood shingles: 20-25 years
Though minor repairs can extend your roof’s life, eventually, time will come when the entire roof should be reshingled.
Severe weather, including winter storms, strong winds, and humidity, can hasten roof deterioration and reduce shingle lifespan. If your property is located in an area prone to extreme weather conditions, you should inspect your roof more frequently to ensure it remains structurally sound.
How do you tell if a roof needs replacing?
Common warning signs of a failing roof include:
- Curled, buckled, or missing shingles
- Sagging areas, holes, or water damage
These signs often indicate the need for a full roof replacement. Additionally, check for wood rot and mold, which can lead to further damage.
What should a preventive maintenance plan include?
A proactive maintenance plan includes regular roof inspections to detect and address minor issues early on. Timely repairs, such as replacing damaged shingles or sealing leaks, can prevent water damage and structural problems. Cleaning gutters and clearing debris are also important for extending your roof’s lifespan.
Your roof is crucial in protecting your investment. Take a proactive approach to roof maintenance, so you won’t have to worry about when to replace the shingles.
At Real Property Management Executives Greater Atlanta, we manage and coordinate property maintenance schedules for our clients. Contact us or call 678-765-8383 for expert property management services in Sugar Hill.
Originally Published on April 19, 2024
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