When Should You Replace the Roof on a Rental Property?

The roof is one of the essential structures on your rental property. As a landlord, you want to minimize costs while maintaining your property. Unnecessary roof replacement instead of a roof repair will be a waste of money.

Also, conducting roof repairs when you should get a replacement will incur more expenses. That is because the roof will break down again and you will still have to replace it. For this reason, says Cory Property Management, landlords need to know the appropriate time to replace their roofs.

Signs that the roof of your rental property needs a replacement

Here are some signs that notify you when the roof of your rental property has gone beyond repair.

1. Persistent roof leaks

It is usual for your tenants to complain of roof leaks once in a while. In such cases, a simple repair may be okay. But if they keep complaining of leaks from the same place or several other spots, then your shingles are weak. When this happens, you should invite experts to inspect your roof.

These experts will check for the possible causes of frequent roof leaks and the extent of damage on the roof. Depending on the assessment, the experts may recommend simple leak repairs, partial, or total roof replacement.

2. The roof has exceeded its lifespan

Roofs have variable lifespans depending on the type of material. Asphalt roofs last between 15 to 30 years, clay roofs last up to 50 years, slate tiles last over 100 years, and metallic roofs can stay for 700 years.

However, the lifespan of the roof also depends on environmental conditions and maintenance. It would be best if you replace your roof when it expires. That is because the roof may fail without giving any warning signs.

3. Extensive growth of algae and moss

When moss and algae grow on your roof, it results in roof damage. That is because the algae feed on the shingles and underlying wood.

They will also cause moisture to accumulate on the roof’s surface, resulting in water damage. So when you notice an extensive growth of algae or moss on the roof, know that there is a widespread roof failure that needs replacement.

4. Bowing or sagging roof

Typical roofs have a straight roof ridge. However, it assumes the shape of a saddle when it is sagging. Roofs may sag following a collapsing attic deck, the snow’s weight, or a failing foundation.

A sagging roof also involves the underlying wood and this worsens every day. If the roof of your rental property is sagging, we recommend an extensive roof replacement.

5. Buckling or curling shingles

The roof on your rental property receives direct impact from the sun, rain, snow, and wind. Following repeated exposure, the shingles may be weak and unable to withstand these effects. As a result, they curl or buckle.

When this happens, the roof is no longer able to offer protection from the harsh weather conditions. And your rental property becomes susceptible to water damage. Sometimes, a few shingles may buckle, and you only replace the bad ones. However, when several shingles curl at the same time, your roof needs a replacement.

6. Missing shingles

After a heavy downpour or wind, you may have a missing shingle. In this case, you only repair the shingle and perform some minor repairs. But when the shingles frequently go missing or several shingles are missing at the same time, your roof is weak and requires a replacement. Missing shingles make the rental property lose its curb appeal and also exposes your tenants to harsh conditions.

7. Damaged flashings

Some areas of the roof are prone to leaks. Such sites include the chimney, skylight, vent, and roof valleys. Flashings are galvanized steel or metals that cover these spots and protect them from leaking.

Following exposure to extreme temperature over time, the flashing may crack, bend, or break off. As a result, there will be spaces for water to leak from the roof. If you notice damaged flashing around the skylight, vent, or chimney, it means the roof is failing. You will need to replace your roof to prevent further damage to the internal structures.

8. Excessive shedding of granules

Roof granules cover your roof and protect your property from extreme temperatures. The roof may shed granules a little and that is normal. Sometimes the shedding may become severe to the extent that it fills up the gutters or bald spots appear on your roof. These are indications that your roof needs a replacement. Bald shingles do not have the ability to protect the structure from extreme weather conditions.

If you are considering a roof replacement, we recommend that you hire experts to inspect the roof. From their assessment, they will inform you of the appropriate action to take.