Depending on the type of roof you have, you will need to replace it in 25 to 50 years. Some types, such as metal roofs, last longer than most and look great for decades. Those with asphalt shingles usually do not last as long. No matter when you bought your home, you might have a schedule that tells you when to handle maintenance like a roof replacement. We’ll tell you the pros and cons of replacing yours ahead of time.
Avoid More Damage
The biggest pro to an early roof replacement is that it helps you avoid more damage. If your roof has one or more leaks, the water that gets into your house can cause a lot of damage. It might cause the ceiling to collapse and lead to mold forming inside the walls. You can keep patching the leaks, but replacing the roof is a better option. It helps you limit the damage that the roof can and will do.
No Time to Save Up for the Project
A potential con of replacing your roof early is that it doesn’t give you time to save. The cost can climb to 20K or more based on the size of your home and the material you choose. While you might get lucky and have good insurance that covers some of the cost, many people need to pay the full cost out of pocket. Waiting years to replace the roof gives you time to save. On the other hand, the price of materials may rise, causing the total price to increase.
Matching Materials
Another thing to consider is whether you have a specific material in mind. Whether you have your heart set on a large metal roof or one covered in asphalt shingles, you might find a product you love now and later find that the company stopped making it. If you replace your roof ahead of your planned schedule, you’ll have an easier time finding all the materials you need.
Energy Efficiency
We often tell customers to replace their roofs as soon as they can afford it because the new roof will be more energy efficient. During the summer and fall months, temperatures can rise to uncomfortable levels. An old roof lets some of the cool air from your AC system escape, so you need to turn the AC up and spend more to keep your home comfortable. Replacing the roof can help you reduce these costs.
Replacing your roof early or waiting a while is a personal decision that depends on factors like how much you have in your budget and whether your home is energy efficient. For help with roof replacement and answers to your questions about it, call Pyramid Roofing Services, Inc. in Richmond, VA.
