Owning a home comes with many responsibilities; one of the most important is maintaining your roof. Your roof protects your home from the elements, and if it starts to fail, it can lead to a lot of problems. That is why, if you suspect problems with your roof, you should make replacement a priority.
Let’s look into the risks of delaying roof replacement.
Costs of Roof Leaks & Water Damage
A leaking roof can cause serious damage to your home, and it can be very expensive to repair. If you delay replacing your water-damaged roof, the problem will multiply and be costly.
Continuous water damage will creep in corners and saturate areas, causing mold and mildew to form. It will also weaken the wood or drywall. The costs may be as high as $10,000 to repair all the damage caused by a leaking roof.
Mold & Mildew
If your roof is leaking, it is the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. Mold can cause serious health problems for you and your family, such as respiratory problems, headaches, and skin irritation. Anyone in the home with asthma will be especially vulnerable.
Insect & Animal Infestation
Gaping holes in the home make it easy for unwanted pests to invade and nest. If there is a hole in your roof, it is the perfect opportunity for insects and animals to get inside.
Once they are in, they can be very difficult to get rid of, and they can cause a lot of damage. One of the worse pests that may come through the roof is a termite. Termites can come through loose roof shingles and eat through wood, which can weaken the structure of your home.
Structural Damage
One of the most serious problems that can occur is structural damage. If your roof is not in good condition, it can put your home at risk for collapse. Once the structure is gone, your home will be dangerous and decrease in value.
Higher Energy Bills
If you have a damaged roof, it will not be as effective at protecting your home from the elements. This means that your home is going to be less energy-efficient, and you will see an increase in your energy bills. It will be harder to keep in cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter.
Difficulty Selling Your Home
If you ever decide to sell your home, it will be more difficult if you have a damaged roof. Buyers are hesitant to purchase a home with a roof that needs to be replaced, which will affect your home’s value.
Don’t Delay Roof Replacement
So, as you can see, there are a lot of risks associated with delaying roof replacement. Keep up with roof inspections and tend to any roof problems as soon as possible. Otherwise, the safety and structure of the home will be in jeopardy.