A home inspection, including residential roof services, before buying a property is paramount and no knowledgeable home buyer would ever skip it. You want to ensure the potential
property is in good shape and that any issues are addressed before moving in (plus, you may be able to negotiate a lower price). However, many homeowners put roof inspection and maintenance on the back burner once they move in. There are a myriad of excuses at the ready.
Unfortunately, taking care of your roof is a lot like taking care of your body. Preventative care is critical, and the longer you go without physicals and check-ins, the more likely that trouble may be brewing. The cost of an inspection and minor maintenance is phenomenally more affordable than waiting until disaster strikes. Here are the major reasons people skip roof inspections and what the “worst case” may really be:
1. They think it is expensive
Compare the cost of an inspection to the cost of buying a new roof or doing major repairs, and suddenly that inspection is very manageable. The actual cost will depend on your region, the inspection company and the size of your roof, but it should easily fit into a homeowner’s budget. When buying a property, setting aside funds for routine maintenance should be part of the process.
2. They think they don’t have time
A good roofing company will offer a variety of timeframes that fit within your schedule. It actually does not take long for a thorough roof inspection, and homeowners can even help out by keeping an eye on things throughout the year. Although it is dangerous to climb onto a roof, or even a ladder to see the roof, oftentimes you can spot trouble areas with a simple pair of binoculars from the ground. Keep an eye out for pests/nests, dark spots and missing shingles.
3. They think it’s not that big of a deal
Does it really matter if you get an inspection done now or wait six months to a year? That depends on the potential for damage and needed repairs, which you simply don’t know. Much like seeing your general physician, it probably won’t matter if you miss your six-month physical—if you’re in good health. However, if there’s trouble lurking, such as melanoma from too much sun, six months can make a world of difference. The problem with waiting is that you have no way of knowing what the future holds.
The roof is one of the costliest elements of your home, and it is a major investment. Protect it. Regular roof inspections can help homeowners stave off unnecessary costly repairs and replacements.