How long can you put off a home roof replacement? A home roof replacement can be expensive, and many homeowners will try to squeeze as many years as possible out of their current roof. They may think there’s no real reason to rush. However, your old roof may not just be in need of replacement, it may actually be unsafe and a risk to your family. When you consider how much damage an old roof can cause, the cost of a home roof replacement is well worth it.
An old roof can – and probably will – begin to leak. A small leak may seem like an inconvenience, but it will quickly begin to cause damage. The initial damage is usually to your attic and ceilings. Items and insulation you have stored in the attic may become water damaged, and the water damage will move to the ceiling underneath. You’ll notice darkening spots on the ceiling, bubbling plaster, and damage on ceiling mounted lights and fans.
Once your home has water damage, mold and mildew are almost inevitable. Mold and mildew will grow wherever there is moisture, and once they start to grow, it can be difficult to remedy. Mold and mildew can lead to significant health problems for your family. Mold can spread through your home rapidly, starting with the roof and getting into your HVAC system. This situation can lead to allergic reactions, asthmatic symptoms, and more serious respiratory issues. Even non-toxic black mold will attack the framing, walls, ceiling, and flooring, as well as increase the cost of your home roof replacement significantly with the addition of mold remediation.
Some homeowners may question why a leaking roof can be a fire hazard, but it’s quite simple once you think about it. If you have electrical wiring in your attic and ceiling, a leaky roof can cause shorted wires that can turn into a huge fire hazard. If you suspect that a roof leak is anywhere near wiring in your home, it’s important to check with an electrician, as well as a roofing specialist, to make sure that your home is safe.
Waiting on a home roof replacement often means that you are at significant risk of water damage. Over time, the water will seep through and begin to rot the wood that makes up the structure of your home. Damaged rafters, ceiling joists, and wall framing are all at risk. Water damaged wood can cause peeling paint, damaged ceilings, and buckled walls. All of these structural issues are extremely expensive to fix and a huge risk for your family.
While an old roof is unsafe for many reasons, there are other reasons not to delay on a home roof replacement. An old roof will usually mean higher utility bills and wasted energy. Your home will begin to look bad, too. If you are considering selling your home, having a roof in need of replacement will turn many buyers off immediately.
If you suspect that your roof is in need of replacement, schedule a roof inspection to see how your roof is functioning. While there are some repairs that can be delayed, an unsafe roof is not something you want to sit on. You may be putting your home and family at risk. We are here to help. Contact All-Nu Construction for a new roof estimate. Our roofing specialists can help guide you through the process from beginning to end.