A roof repair or replacement can be one of the largest expenses any homeowner might face, and no one can predict when and if a severe weather event, fallen tree, or mischievous squirrel will cause damage.
While home insurance coverage is dependent on cause of damage, homeowners are responsible for roof maintenance and replacement due to normal wear and tear. As such, it’s important to understand shingle warranty limitations, how to increase your roof’s lifespan and when a repair or replacement is necessary.
The Confusion About Shingle Warranties
Shingles may come with a product warranty of 25, 30, or even 50 years, so it’s easy to believe that your roof will last that long. After all, that’s what the warranty promises—right? Well, maybe not.
Those warranties only cover “manufacturer’s defect” and don’t guarantee the full lifespan. Shingle warranties can also be pro-rated after the first few years, meaning they cover an increasingly smaller percentage as time progresses.
Even if a roof repair is necessary due to defective shingles, a roofer’s fees and labor make up the bulk of the expenses, and the homeowner is responsible for them.
Tips on Roof Maintenance
There are several actions you can take to protect your roof from everyday wear and tear.
- Have your roof inspected yearly, especially if it’s 15+ years old
- Regularly check your roof for debris and standing water
- Trim tree branches to 6 ft away from any structure on your property
- Check shingles and gutters after big storms or snowy spells
- Keep your roof maintenance receipts and before/after pictures
When Roof Repair is Necessary
It may be time to repair or replace your roof if:
- It’s an asphalt roof that’s 15-20+ years old
- Shingles are missing, damaged, or losing granules
- Loose and damaged flashing; worn sealants
- Moss or algae growing on the roof
- The roof is sagging along the ridge or other areas
- There’s water damage inside your home
- Higher energy bills
- Pest infestations