As an investor, keeping your rental property in good shape is vital, and for single-family rental homes, that starts with maintaining the roof. While a quality roof will hold up for many years, eventually, all roofs need to be reshingled.
So, when should you reshingle your rental property’s roof? To find out, you need to assess the roof’s age, condition, and materials used.
What affects the lifespan of a property’s roof?
Roof maintenance is a vital aspect of property management. Reshingling ensures the longevity and structural integrity of your rental property’s roof. Understanding the factors that impact roof lifespan and recognizing the signs indicating the need for reshingling is key for proactive maintenance.
Factors affecting roof longevity include:
- Type of roofing material used
- Climate of the area
- Maintenance level applied
- Age of the roof
Performing regular inspections will help you identify wear and tear, such as leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss, which indicate the need for reshingling.
How often do shingles need to be replaced?
Shingles last about 20 years. If your roof has reached or exceeded this age, it’s time to start planning for a replacement. Even if your roof is younger, you should perform regular inspections to monitor its condition. The National Roofing Contractors Association
recommends inspections twice a year. You can conduct these yourself or hire a professional.
The type of shingles on your property determines the replacement schedule:
- Composition shingles: 12 to 20 years
- Asphalt shingles: 15 to 30 years
- Wood shingles: 20 to 25 years
Though minor repairs can extend the roof’s life, eventually, time will come when the entire roof should be reshingled.
Harsh winters, strong winds, and humidity can speed up roof wear. If your property is located ins a storm-prone area, you may need to inspect the roof more frequently to ensure it remains structurally sound.
How do you tell if a roof needs replacing?
Look for these signs during inspections:
- Curling, buckled, or missing shingles
- Sagging, holes, or water damage
- Wood rot or mold spreading beyond the shingles
Addressing minor issues promptly can help avoid larger problems like water infiltration and extend your roof’s lifespan.
What should a preventive maintenance plan include?
Regular inspections and maintenance checks will help you catch minor issues before they become major problems. Replacing damaged shingles, sealing leaks, and maintaining gutters will keep your roof in good condition.
Your roof protects your investment and tenants. A proactive approach will ensure you know exactly when to replace the shingles.
At Real Property Management Diablo Valley, we manage maintenance schedules and coordinate efforts for your properties. Contact us or call 925-658-5755 for expert property management services in San Ramon.
Originally Published on April 19, 2024
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