To repair or replace your roof. It’s one of the most difficult decisions homeowners will face. Trying to squeeze out an extra year can lead to damage in other areas of the home and increase the overall price tag, but replacing it too soon can have financial consequences as well.
While it’s never an easy decision, it’s important to remember roof replacements add a significant amount of value to the home. Because a roof replacement is one of the most expensive home renovation projects, it’s easy to view it as a financial burden or a necessary evil associated with homeownership. However, a roof replacement can actually be a great investment opportunity that provides both short and long term benefits. While it is a significant cost upfront, a good replacement can truly pay off in the long run.
Understanding the value of your roof can help you to be better informed when it comes time to decide to repair or replace. Consider these four benefits of a brand new roof replacement:
1. It Will Drive A Higher Resale Value
If you’re planning to put your home on the market in the near future, now might be the best time to pursue a roof replacement (depending on its age and condition). An old, deteriorating roof is a big red flag to potential buyers as it may signal that your home could be a money pit from the start. On the other hand, if you replace your roof prior to selling your home, you can recoup a large amount of the cost by increasing your sale price. In some cases, you may even see a return on your investment. According to a study by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), 32% of respondents said roofing helped them close a deal, which proves a good roof plays an important role in the sale process. However, keep in mind that a solid roof is a baseline expectation for most buyers, so while you may recoup some of your costs in the sale price, profiting on a roof replacement isn’t always feasible.
The quality of your roof replacement is also going to significantly influence how much you’re able to get on your return. A poor roof replacement that is done by an inexperienced contractor can actually negatively impact your sale price, especially if the bad craftsmanship is apparent to potential buyers or home inspectors. Always be sure to work with a reputable contractor and seek referrals or recommendations. Also avoid cheap roofing materials and be sure to keep up with maintenance once the roof replacement is complete. Transferring the roof warranty to the buyer is also a nice way to sweeten the deal.
2. It Will Protect Your Home And Family
You rely on your roof to protect the things you value most. It’s the only thing that stands between harsh Florida weather and your belongings, home, and family. But as your roof ages and deteriorates, it loses its effectiveness and can actually become a safety risk. Old or damaged roofs can collapse, especially during strong storms, high winds, and hurricanes. Even if you don’t experience a full roof failure – a leaking roof can lead to damage in other areas of the home including the foundation, walls, and attic, and can even lead to mold and mildew growth.
A roof replacement can give you the peace of mind of knowing that your family and property is safe. It can protect against other structural issues, which can translate into additional cost savings. To maximize protection and value, consider selecting strong, durable roofing materials. While they’re more expensive, clay or concrete tiles can really withstand severe Florida weather and have the longest lifespan of any roofing material on the market.
3. It Will Improve Your Curb Appeal
If your roof is visible from street level, then it likely has a significant impact on your curb appeal and how others perceive the overall value of your home. Curb appeal is important for a number of reasons. A good aesthetic makes your home feel more welcoming and comfortable. It also significantly influences the value of your home as well as the value of the surrounding neighborhood. By maintaining a good roof, you can prevent your home from sticking out like a sore thumb or from dragging down the appearance of the neighborhood. Missing or cracked shingles, algae growth, discoloration, and water stains can all negatively impact your curb appeal, so it’s important to get these issues taken care of as soon as possible. If your roof is also old or failing, then a roof replacement is probably the best way to improve your curb appeal.
To maximize your curb appeal, make sure you select materials and colors that complement the rest of the home and neighborhood. A good contractor can guide you through the process and help you select the best colors and design.
4. It Will Reduce Your Energy Costs
Your roof has a major impact on your home’s energy efficiency, and a new roof can go a long way towards decreasing annual costs especially in sunny Florida climates. That’s because certain roofing materials can actually reflect light instead of absorbing it, which can help keep your home cool during the daytime. Metal roofs are particularly good at reflecting light, but even light color concrete or asphalt tiles can have a positive impact on energy efficiency. A new roof with adequate insulation can also prevent air from entering or escaping, which can help your attic and home maintain cooler temperatures in the summer or warmer temperatures in the winter. Adequate ventilation during hot summers can increase airflow in the attic and underneath the roof, which can actually extend the overall lifespan of your roof. Radiant barriers can also be placed on top of your sheathing to help keep heat out of the attic. The roof replacement process is a great time to optimize your roof for heat reflection and airflow, which ultimately increase energy efficiency.
Choosing the right time to replace your roof is never an easy decision. There are many factors to consider including your roof’s age, condition, and how long you intend to remain in the home. If you decide it’s time for a roof replacement, remember that it’s an investment and not a sunk cost. A brand new roof can make your home more comfortable, keep your family safe, improve energy efficiency, and ultimately increase your home’s overall value. In the long run, it’s definitely a worthwhile investment.
Just remember that the quality of your roof replacement is critical and choosing a reputable contractor with proven experience is the key to achieving a solid return on your investment. If you are considering a roof replacement in the Oviedo area, contact us at Native Building Services & Roofing. We have over 30 years of experience in the construction industry, and our team of residential roofing experts would be happy to guide you through the roof replacement process today.
