As a homeowner, you always want to make sure you are doing everything you can to protect your home. It can seem like there is always something to add to the list of maintenance tasks required to properly take care of your home. As overwhelming as it may seem, homeownership is a massive accomplishment. The last thing you want is to forget how important your roof is. Your roof is your home’s greatest asset when it comes to protecting against inclement weather and pests.
In this article, we will explore the consequences of neglecting your roof repairs.
Increased Repair Costs
Neglecting to perform regular maintenance on your roof will result in costly repairs in the future. If you don’t make an effort to do routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the gutters and getting frequent inspections, you might miss minor issues before they get larger and require costly repairs.
It is vital to take action and address issues with your roof as soon as you notice them. Every day you put off these repairs is another day that the problem has to worsen. Cleaning your gutters when they are full or on a regular basis will help them last longer. The other option is to allow the dirt, water, and debris to build up until the gutter eventually breaks. Of course, this does not sound like a good plan because gutter replacements are more expensive than gutter cleaning.
Increased Energy Bills
As your roof ages, it begins to require a bit more upkeep. One of the significant events that occurs as a roof gets older is that it becomes less energy efficient. Throughout the year, the roof takes a beating throughout every season. From harsh ultraviolet rays in the summer to heavy snowfall in the winter, roofing materials begin to experience some natural wear and tear.
When roofing materials begin to weaken, it can result in decreased insulation. Your home’s insulation is an integral part of the overall energy efficiency of your home. Damaged insulation makes it more difficult to warm and cool your home, thus increasing energy bills.
Leaks and Water Damage
One of the most common damages to roofs is leaks that can result in water damage. Leaking can occur for multiple reasons. However, even the smallest leaks can turn into water damage. This is because if the leak is left untreated, it only worsens every time it experiences any type of pressure.
Water damage can have significant effects on the structure of your home and your health. Here are a few dangers of water damage in your home.
- Cracks in the walls and ceilings
- Mold and mildew
- Rotted Wood
- Electrical Damage
- Unpleasant odors
Allowing leaks to progress can have a significant impact on the longevity of your home and your roof. The last thing you want to do is fork over thousands of dollars for a roof replacement when the problem could have been addressed when it was first noticed.
Decreased Property Value
When you neglect your property, it is apparent to anyone who takes a close enough look. If you were thinking about selling your home, an unkept roof would be a massive red flag for potential buyers. Visible damages, such as the following, can raise concerns in the minds of potential buyers.
- Loose or missing shingles
- Visible sagging
- Water damage on walls
- A mildewy smell inside the home
Not only will they have to worry about the cost of purchasing a home, but they will also have to worry about the costly repairs that might need to be made. This can make it more challenging to sell your home and decrease the amount of money that you can get from the sale of it.
Pests, Pests, and Pests!
Roof repairs close off any potential entrance points for pests to enter your home. Birds, rodents, and insects can enter your home through the cracks in your roof. During colder months, vulnerabilities in your roof can also invite in animals who are looking for someplace warm. There are a plethora of pests that no one wants in their homes. Here are a few examples.
- Raccoons
- Bats
- Cluster Flies
- Squirrels
Additionally, warm and moist environments can invite animals such as cockroaches and mice. No one likes the idea of living with these pests. Unfortunately, it is a possibility if a home is not properly maintained.
Damage to Your Insulation
The insulation of your home plays a massive role in how comfortable your living environment is. Insulation provides cleaner air, energy efficiency, and resistance to heat flow. Failing to keep up with your roof repairs can lead to damaged insulation and higher energy costs.
Your insulation can be damaged if you neglect to address water damage and routine roof repairs. If it becomes compromised, it can lose its integrity. This will then cause your HVAC system to have to work twice as hard to comfortably cool and heat your home.
Fire Hazard
Your home is at an increased risk for fire when you neglect to keep up with your roof repairs. Whether it is wires that are exposed to a leak or a build-up of leaves and twigs on the roof, fires can easily be started. During dry seasons, it becomes easier for fires to start with the slightest triggers. That build-up of leaves and twigs on the roof can catch fire if exposed to sunlight for too long.
All in all, It is essential to keep up with your roof repairs and maintenance in order to protect your home. Contact your local roofing company to figure out your next steps.
Freeman Exteriors Is Your Trusted Roof Repair Company in Champaign, IL!
If you are looking for a roof repair company in Champaign, IL, look no further than Freeman Exteriors. We have everything you need to protect your home from the elements. For more information on roof repairs, replacements, and maintenance, call us today. Our team of roofing experts cannot wait to help you!
