As an investor, keeping your rental property in good shape is essential, and for single-family rental homes, the roof is a critical component. While a high-quality roof will last for many years, eventually, even the best roof will need to be reshingled.
But how often should you reshingle your rental property’s roof? To determine this, you must assess the roof’s age, condition, and the materials used.
What affects the lifespan of a property’s roof?
Roof maintenance is a vital aspect of property management, and reshingling plays a crucial role in ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of your rental property’s roof. Identifying the factors that influence roof lifespan and recognizing signs of wear are essential for maintaining a solid roof.
Factors influencing roof longevity include:
- Type of roofing material used
- Climate of the area
- Level of maintenance performed
- Age of the roof
Routine inspections can help detect early signs of wear, such as leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss, which may signal that reshingling is needed.
How often do shingles need to be replaced?
Shingles typically last for about 20 years, so if your roof is older than that, it may be time to plan for a replacement. Even if the roof is not that old, regular inspections are crucial to keep track of its condition. The National Roofing Contractors Association suggests performing inspections twice a year. You can either do these inspections yourself or hire a qualified professional to conduct them.
Different shingles have varying lifespans:
- Composition shingles: 12 to 20 years
- Asphalt shingles: 15 to 30 years
- Wood shingles: 20 to 25 years
Although making minor repairs can extend your roof’s life, the time will come eventually when the entire roof should be reshingled.
Harsh winters, high winds, and constant humidity can all speed up the wear on a roof. If your property is located in an area affected by severe weather, it’s important to inspect the roof more frequently to ensure it remains in good condition.
How do you tell if a roof needs replacing?
Look for the following signs during your roof inspection:
- Curling, buckling, or missing shingles
- Sagging, holes, or visible water damage
- Wood rot or mold spreading beyond the shingles
By addressing minor issues promptly, you can prevent serious damage, such as water infiltration, and prolong the roof’s lifespan.
What should a preventive maintenance plan include?
Regular roof inspections and maintenance checks help identify and address issues early, preventing costly repairs down the road. Replacing damaged shingles and sealing leaks will help prevent water damage and keeping gutters clean helps extend the roof’s life.
Maintaining your roof is essential to protect your investment and tenants. By staying proactive, you won’t have to worry about whether it’s time to replace your shingles—you’ll know when the time comes.
At Real Property Management Generations, we offer comprehensive property management services and handle all maintenance scheduling for your properties. Contact us or call 310-907-5646 to find out how we can assist you with expert property management services in Beverly Hills.
Originally Published on April 19, 2024
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