As an investor, it’s important to keep your rental property in good shape, especially for single-family rental homes. A quality roof will hold up for many years, but eventually, every roof will need to be reshingled.
So how do you know when it’s time to reshingle your rental property’s roof? The answer depends on 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, and timely reshingling is vital for ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of your rental property’s roof. Knowing the factors influencing roof lifespan and recognizing signs indicating the need for reshingling are key to practicing proactive maintenance.
These factors that impact a roof’s longevity include:
- The roofing material used
- The climate of the area
- The level of maintenance performed
- The age of the roof
With regular inspections, you can identify signs of wear and tear such as leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss, any of which may suggest that reshingling is in order.
How often do shingles need to be replaced?
Typically, shingles will last about 20 years. If your roofing system is nearing or has surpassed that age, it’s time to start planning for a replacement. Even when the property’s roof isn’t that old, always perform regular inspections to keep track of your roof’s condition.
The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends twice-yearly inspections. You can either do these yourself or hire a qualified professional to assist.
Here are average lifespans and considerations for the type of shingles on your property, which affect the cost of replacement:
- Composition shingles: 12–20 years
- Asphalt shingles: 15–30 years
- Wood shingles: 20–25 years
You may be able to extend the life of your property’s roof with repairs, but eventually, there will come a time when the entire roof should be reshingled.
In climates with storms or other extreme weather, the rate of wear on a roof increases and the life of your shingles shortens. That’s why it’s crucial to inspect the roof more often to ensure it remains structurally sound.
How do you tell if a roof needs replacing?
When conducting an inspection, observe for most common warning signs that your roof is starting to fail. Shingles that are curled, buckled, or missing are often a signal the need for a replacement.
More alarming symptoms include sagging, visible holes, and water damage. Be wary of wood rot and mold, as they tend to spread and damage the roof deck and attic space.
What should a preventive maintenance plan include?
Any effective plan should involve regular roof inspections and maintenance checks. Addressing minor issues promptly, including replacing damaged shingles, can prevent water infiltration and structural damage to the property. Also, make sure to maintain your gutters and remove buildup to prolonging the roof’s lifespan.
Because the property’s roof protects your investment, proper roof maintenance is non-negotiable. Being proactive ensures you won’t be caught off guard when it’s time to replace the shingles.
At Real Property Management California Coast, we manage maintenance schedules and coordinate maintenance for all your rental properties. Contact us or call 310-535-2150 for reliable property management services in El Segundo.
Originally Published on April 19, 2024
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