We don’t often think about the roofs over our heads. After all, when it’s out of sight, it’s out of mind. But it’s wise not to wait until a roof collapse to determine if you’re due for a roof replacement. Roof leaks can cause costly damage to your home, and homeowners insurance will not always cover such damages. Therefore, it’s important to pay your roof the attention it deserves, and there are several signs you can look out for before tragedy befalls your family and your wallet.
Begin on the Inside of Your Home
Before crawling through your attic, the first thing you can do to determine the life expectancy of your roof is to refer to your home improvement or home inspection records. These documents will uncover how long ago your roof was replaced or reshingled. Typical roofs last anywhere between 20 and 25 years, so if your roof is approaching its final days, it is best to look into having the roof replaced. Otherwise, if it’s still in its heyday, head to the attic and investigate the eaves. Be on the lookout for strains and streaks and try to spot any light coming through the top of the house, as these are signs of a leaky roof.
Check the Outside of Your House
Examining your roof from both near and afar is essential when determining the need for a roof replacement. It is just one of the ways to keep the outside of your home safe. Here are a few things to keep an eye out for that signal roof damage:
- Cracking: Shingles that are cracked or broken can lead to roof damage if not replaced.
- Curling: Curling shingles can be a sign of leaking or poor installation.
- Sagging: If your roof is drooping or sagging, it is a clear sign of rotting boards.
- Exposed nails: Nails jutting out from shingles can rust, leading to a leaky roof.
- Moss: The presence of moss on your roof can indicate trapped moisture, which can trigger rot.
- Damaged flashing: Flashing seals vents, chimneys, and skylights, so if damage is present, it can cause leakage.
Protecting Your Family and Finances
With the right policy, homeowners insurance may have you covered in the case of damages caused by a covered peril, such as hail, wind, fire, or ice dams, but it does not cover damage from gradual wear and tear or general lack of maintenance. It is up to you to regularly inspect and maintain your roof to prevent leaks in the roofline that can cause large-scale damages to your home, putting your family at risk of mold and mildew exposure and even roof collapse. Besides, a well-maintained roof can increase your home’s value and is one of a number of ways to cut down on energy costs.
Routinely checking for the aforementioned signs will go a long way in ensuring you are protected from uncovered damages. If you’re due for a roof replacement, it can be expensive, but it’s important to keep in mind the extra costs in damages you can incur should you ignore the warning signs. Luckily, if you keep up the maintenance, your homeowners insurance will cover any of the unanticipated damages caused by hail, wind, fire, and falling trees. At TJ Woods Insurance, we have the tools necessary to ensure you always have a roof over your head. Contact us today to be matched with the right homeowners policy.
