As an investor, maintaining the condition of your rental property is a priority. For single-family rental homes, the roof plays a significant role in protecting the property. A quality roof will last many years, but eventually, it will need to be reshingled.
But how often should you reshingled your rental property’s roof? The answer depends on the age and condition of the current roof and the materials used.
What affects the lifespan of a property’s roof?
Roof maintenance is a critical element of property management, with reshingling being a vital factor in ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of your rental property’s roof. Understanding the factors that influence roof lifespan and the signs that indicate the need for reshingling is essential for proactive roof maintenance.
Some of the key factors influencing a roof’s longevity include:
- Roofing material used
- Climate of the area
- Level of maintenance performed
- Age of the roof
Regular inspections will help identify wear signs like leaks, curling shingles, or granule loss—early indicators that reshingling may be necessary.
How often do shingles need to be replaced?
Shingles typically last about 20 years. If your roof is older than that, it’s time to start planning a replacement. Even if your roof is still relatively young, regular inspections are crucial to ensure its health. The National Roofing Contractors Associationrecommends conducting inspections at least twice a year. You can perform these inspections yourself or hire a professional.
Here are the expected lifespans of various shingles:
- Composition shingles: 12-20 years
- Asphalt shingles: 15-30 years
- Wood shingles: 20-25 years
While minor repairs can extend the roof’s life, eventually, time will come when the entire roof should be reshingled.
Severe weather such as extreme winters, high winds, and humidity can accelerate roof wear and significantly reduce the life of shingles. If your property is located in a region prone to storms or other extreme weather conditions, more frequent inspections may be necessary to ensure the roof remains in good condition.
How do you tell if a roof needs replacing?
During inspections, you or your contractor should look for these common signs that indicate the roof is beginning to fail:
- Curled, buckled, or missing shingles
- Sagging areas, holes, or water damage
Be sure to check for wood rot and mold, as both can spread and cause additional damage to the roof and property.
What should a preventive maintenance plan include?
To maintain the longevity of your roof, perform regular inspections and address issues promptly. Minor repairs like replacing damaged shingles and sealing leaks can prevent water infiltration and structural damage. Additionally, maintaining gutters and clearing debris are vital to prolonging the roof’s lifespan.
Your rental property’s roof is key to protecting your investment. Taking a proactive approach to roof maintenance will ensure you’re prepared when the time comes to replace the shingles.
At Real Property Management TradeWinds, we handle maintenance schedules and coordinate property management efforts for our clients. Contact us or call 727-400-4722 for expert property management services in Belleair.
Originally Published on April 19, 2024
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