A home’s roof is its last line of defence. It must be watertight to avoid damage that can cause your property’s value to decrease. Do you know what to look for to see if it is in good condition?
A worn-out roof can be a real nightmare. We are talking mainly about the damage caused by water infiltration. This can be obvious, such as a leaking ceiling; or less easy to spot, like water slowly accumulating between walls allowing mould to grow. These hidden issues are the worst-case scenario because they are often discovered too late. The solution? Nip it in the bud! That is, inspect the roof twice a year.
Tips for Avoiding Problems
With our busy schedules, it is easy to forget to check on the roof’s condition. However, it is recommended that a visual inspection be carried out in the fall and again a few months after the snow has melted away. If you see something wrong, contact a roofer to confirm if there is a real problem. Also, when debris such as leaves or branches pile up, remove them. They may damage the shingles.
The Unmistakable Signs
In Quebec, most residential roofs are made of asphalt shingles. It is generally easy to recognize when a roof of this type needs to be fixed or replaced. Some shingles have warped, others have darkened or shifted. Sections of the roof remain damp or squishy. There are cracks and additional visible issues, like mould. Sometimes the seals have peeled away in areas. Indeed, even a minimal observation effort will be enough to detect a roof that is no longer up to the job. A roof in optimal condition has both a uniform colour and surface.
Can’t I Wait a Little While for my Roof Visual Inspection?
Certainly not! Some homeowners may be tempted to wait a few months before hiring a roofing company to carry out the necessary work. This is not advisable. In fact, it is better to replace a roof before it is too late. Address the issue at the first signs of wear!
Replace or Repair Where Needed?
The expected lifespan of a shingle roof varies between 10 and 20 years. In some case, as when only a few sections are damaged, it is not necessary to redo the entire roof of the house. An expert can advise you on this step. If you need to replace the whole roof, it is suggested that you do so during the milder months of March to October.
Price Ranges
The cost of a new roof varies considerably. There are several parameters that can impact the final amount. For example, if there is extensive mould and parts of the frame must be repaired, or if the roof has a steep incline. And of course, the larger the area to be recovered, the greater the bill. For a mid-sized home, you can expect to pay approximately $12,000 to replace an asphalt shingle roof, which comes to around $5 per square foot. This is the most widely used material in Quebec as it is efficient and affordable.
There are still a few days before winter begins and the accumulating snow prevents you from carrying out a visual inspection. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!