When renovation comes to mind, people often associate it with the interior of the house, whether it be a new door or a collection of furniture to enhance the living space. The exterior of the house is often neglected, especially the roof, which provides such an important function of sheltering occupants from the elements.
But since the roof portion is at an elevated position outside of the house, damages and disrepair are not easy to spot. Here comes the question. When do we renovate the roof?
They leak
Depending on the material and weather condition, the average roof can last between twenty to sixty years. The rule of thumb here is to have your roof examined by a professional three decades after the installation. One obvious clue that the roof needs repair is when your house is no longer waterproof during a downpour.
Normally, the nature of the leakage should inform you of the extent of the damage, whether it be a slight drip or a steady stream. Take note that water penetration may signify that insects and vermins can have access into your house. Even if there is no leak, the roof still requires your attention. Check for moisture build-up in the ceiling.
These come in dark patches that spread further when it rains. Mould growth will soon follow, and this build-up may create hairline cracks that compromise the integrity of the roof. Not only that, the presence of mould and mildew is a hazard to your respiratory system. Moisture ingress is usually caused by missing or damaged tiles, blocked gutters or faulty installation.
Sagging roof
A sagging roof is a sure sign that repairs are overdue. The odd posture of the roof can damage the tiles, so do examine them. Check the pipes attached alongside the roof and make sure all the elements hidden below the roof covering are performing as required.
If the roof is too heavy for your house, then have it replaced with a lighter material. Or perhaps it simply needs more stability in the attic, which can be done by installing additional struts or rafters.
Simply for aesthetics
Planning to float your house on the secondary market? One simple way to improve the selling price is by giving your old roof a new coat of paint. Even if you do not plan to sell it, the touch up should do wonders in improving the overall appearance of your property. Use heat resistant paint if you want to lower down the temperature of your house, which will in the long term save more money on your electricity bills.
Roof renovation is not an easy task, since work at an elevated position requires specialised tools and the necessary expertise. It is a simple matter to replace one or two tiles or patch up a hole by yourself. In the case of an entire renovation, it is best to save yourself the trouble and hire a professional.
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