As an investor, you must take every measure to keep your rental property in good shape, and for single-family rental homes, that starts with the roof. Even though a quality roof will hold up for many years, it will eventually need to be reshingled.
But when exactly should you reshingle your rental property’s roof? The answer lies in key details, such as the age and condition of the current roof and the type of materials used.
What affects the lifespan of a property’s roof?
Roof maintenance is a crucial aspect of property management. Reshingling is an essential part of ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of your rental property’s roof. Being familiar with the factors influencing roof lifespan and recognizing the signs indicating the need for reshingling enables proactive maintenance.
Consider the following factors that impact a roof’s longevity:
- roofing material used
- climate of the area
- level of maintenance performed
- age of the roof
Through regular inspections, you can catch signs of wear and tear early—such as leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss—which may suggest it’s time to consider reshingling.
How often do shingles need to be replaced?
Generally, shingles will last about 20 years. If your roof is nearing or past that age, you should start planning for a replacement. Even if your property’s roof isn’t that old yet, it’s critical to perform regular inspections to keep track of your roof’s condition. The National Roofing Contractors Association suggests doing inspections twice a year. You can complete these inspections yourself or hire a qualified professional.
Depending on the type of shingles on your property, you can prepare for the cost of replacement:
- Composition shingles can last 12 to 20 years
- Asphalt shingles can last 15 to 30 years
- Wood shingles can last 20 to 25 years
Making minor fixes can help extend the life of your property’s roof, but eventually, the time will come when the entire roof should be reshingled.
Harsh winters, frequent storms, and continuous moisture can speed up the rate of wear on a roof, shortening the life of your shingles. If your property is located in an area with extreme weather, be sure to inspect the roof more frequently to ensure it remains structurally sound.
How do you tell if a roof needs replacing?
During an inspection, keep an eye out for the most common warning signs that your roof is beginning to deteriorate. If shingles appear curled, buckled, or are missing entirely, these could signal the need for a full replacement.
More advanced signs of a failing roof include sagging, holes, or water damage. It’s also important to inspect for wood rot and mold, as these can spread quickly and damage other areas beyond the shingles.
What should a preventive maintenance plan include?
Regular roof inspections and maintenance checks are essential to address small problems before they grow into bigger ones.
Dealing with minor repairs right away—such as replacing damaged shingles or fixing leaks—can help prevent water infiltration and structural damage to your property. Additionally, maintaining gutters and removing debris are important tasks that help prolong the roof’s lifespan.
Your rental property’s roof protects your investment and the people living inside. Proper roof maintenance is non-negotiable. Rather than waiting until a problem arises, stay ahead with a proactive plan. That way, you’ll never be caught off guard when it’s time to replace the shingles.
At Real Property Management First Class, we manage maintenance schedules and coordinate maintenance services for property owners. Contact us or call 210-444-2070 to learn how our professional property management services in San Antonio can help.
Originally Published on April 19, 2024
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