5 Reasons why it's important to have your roof regularly inspected, not just after severe weather.
If you're an Oklahoman, you're no stranger to our state's famously dynamic and sometimes tumultuous weather.
Our homes, our safe havens, have to endure whatever Mother Nature decides to throw their way. But it's the roofs that take the brunt of it all - the scorching summers, the frosty winters, and the notorious tornado season. For Oklahoma City homeowners, taking care of your roof through regular inspections is a vital part of safeguarding your home and family.
Roof Inspections Demystified
Let's get down to brass tacks. A roof inspection is not just a casual once-over. It's a meticulous process conducted by trained professionals to detect any signs of damage or potential problems that could undermine the integrity of your roof. This includes checking for damaged or missing shingles, clogged gutters, and poorly sealed flashing around vents and chimneys, among other things.
Imagine Tom, a friend who ignored a minor leak on his roof. Over time, that small leak led to water seeping into the attic, causing structural damage and fostering a mold problem. A regular roof inspection could have identified and addressed the leak, saving Tom a whole lot of time, money, and stress.
Oklahoma's Challenging Weather and Your Roof
In Oklahoma, our roofs are subjected to quite a range of weather conditions. Think about those summer days when the sun blazes so fiercely it feels like everything is baking – that includes your roof, which can lead to cracking and warping of roofing materials. On the other end of the spectrum, our winters can hit hard, causing roofing materials to contract and potentially creating spaces where water can seep in.
And let's not forget our infamous storms. Hail can bruise, crack, or dislodge roofing materials, while strong winds from tornadoes can cause more extreme damage. After such events, it's essential to get your roof inspected to identify and repair any damage.
How Often Should You Get Your Roof Inspected?
As roofing experts, we at Stronghold Roofing recommend that you get your roof inspected at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. This routine allows us to detect and address any damage caused by the extremes of summer and winter. However, if there's been a major storm or other severe weather event, it's a good idea to schedule an additional inspection. Remember, the key is to catch and fix any issues as early as possible.
#1 - Catch the damage early
Regular roof inspections can help identify minor issues that could turn into major problems if left unchecked. This early intervention can save you from more extensive and costly repairs down the line.
As an Oklahoma homeowner, it's crucial to understand your role in maintaining your home's roof, particularly when it comes to your insurance coverage. A well-maintained roof is not just about protecting your home and family; it's also a requirement for most home insurance policies.
In the fine print of many insurance contracts, there is a clause about the homeowner's responsibility to mitigate or prevent further damage. This means that if your roof is damaged, it's your responsibility as a homeowner to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage, if it's safe to do so.
Imagine a scenario where a hailstorm damages your roof, leading to a minor leak. If left unrepaired, this small leak could lead to more extensive water damage to your home's interior. Under the 'duty to mitigate' clause in most insurance policies, you would be required to take steps to prevent this additional damage, such as arranging for a temporary patch or cover over the affected area. Failure to do so could result in your insurance provider denying part or all of your claim related to the additional damage.
Regular roof inspections play a key role in fulfilling this duty to mitigate damage. By identifying potential issues early, you can address them before they escalate, helping you stay in compliance with your insurance policy while also protecting your home.
Remember, when it comes to insurance, communication is crucial. If your roof is damaged, notify your insurance provider promptly and keep them informed about the steps you're taking to prevent further damage. Your proactive approach can help streamline the claim process should you need to file one.
#2 - Extend the lifespan
Depending on the materials, a well-maintained roof in Oklahoma can last anywhere from 15 to over 50 years. Regular inspections and diligent maintenance can help you get the most out of your roof's lifespan, saving you from the significant cost of premature roof replacement.
"Regular inspections aren't pushed in our market because it allows otherwise saveable roofs to deteriorate. Our competitors don't want a roof repair call, they want to sell a complete roof replacement ." – Zach Simmons, Stronghold Roofing
#3 - Keeping your wallet happy
While there's an upfront cost involved with regular roof inspections, these inspections are actually an investment in the longevity of your roof and, ultimately, your home.
Consider this: catching and addressing a minor issue like a small leak early on could cost a few hundred dollars to repair. However, if left unattended, that small leak could result in extensive water damage to your home, leading to potentially thousands of dollars in repair costs down the line.
This scenario doesn't even account for the potential increase in energy costs due to insulation damage or the cost of replacing personal items damaged by the leak.
Regular roof inspections can also play a role in preserving, and even enhancing, the resale value of your home.
Additionally, it's worth considering that many insurance companies appreciate homeowners who take proactive steps to maintain the structural integrity of their homes. By conducting regular roof inspections, you demonstrate responsibility and care for your property, which may positively impact your home insurance rates over time.
So, while it might seem like an unnecessary expenditure at first glance, the cost of regular roof inspections is a drop in the bucket compared to the financial benefits and potential cost savings they can provide. As the saying goes, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." So don't wait until minor issues become major headaches.
#4 - Safety above all
Above all, regular roof inspections are about safety. A damaged roof can pose a risk to the structural integrity of your home and, subsequently, to your family's well-being. Ensuring that your roof is in good shape helps keep your home and family secure.
#5 - Uphold your property value
A well-maintained roof significantly contributes to the value of your home. Should you decide to sell, a recent roof inspection (or better yet, a history of regular inspections) can be a powerful selling point to prospective buyers who understand the challenges posed by Oklahoma's weather.
Believe it or not, most of our referrals come from real estate agents, because as someone is buying a home (in Oklahoma) what's one of the top 10 questions asked - "when was the roof last replaced?".
If it's been more than a year, immediately the buyer is asking for a roof inspection, and or replacement.
Preparing for the worst, hoping for the best
At the end of the day, as Oklahoman's', we know we can't control the weather. But with regular roof inspections, we can control how well prepared our homes are to withstand it. Trust your home to the professionals at Stronghold Roofing. We're here to help you weather any storm with confidence and peace of mind..