It may surprise you to know that roofs go through a similar process of aging as do many other things in Nature. Most of us assume that man made structures are not living entities, but the fact is that they too experience wear and tear, deteriorate over time and ultimately collapse at the end of their allotted time span or life cycle.
Signs That Your Roof Has Aged
Roofs are perhaps one of the most neglected parts of a building, and until a crisis occurs, or there are visible signs of damage or leakage, few building owners think about the condition of their roofs.
Like any other part of your building, the roof needs regular care and maintenance, and this can differ depending on the materials, shape, size, weather, and quality of work.
When they are first installed, new roofs usually take some time to “settle.” This is known as the curing stage in the construction business. What actually happens is that there is a drastic and intense process of accelerated aging. Experienced roofers estimate that this phase can take up to two years. During this time, the roof adjusts itself to the shape and size of the structure, and becomes more stable and capable of withstanding the weather. You may find minor leakages, broken tiles or blisters along the roof-line.
The next phase, lasting for about two decades, is the best part of a roof’s life, where it performs most efficiently. Yet, builders recommend that constant inspection and care are necessary to ensure that the roof lasts for a long time.
Some roofs are guaranteed to last for 50 years, while others may need major repairs or restoration work in a shorter time. By the time your roof hits the twenty year mark, it may show visible signs of aging such as sagging, damaged flashing, rust, moss and algae growth, cracks, missing or broken tiles, leakage and water stains on the walls, dampness in the upper areas of the building, pest attacks and more. Your energy bills may suddenly spiral upwards, due to loss of insulation.
Ignore The Signs: At Your Own Risk
Roof repair costs are one of the single largest expenses that you may have to bear during the lifetime of your building. Ignoring signs of damage can seriously affect your safety and that of other occupants in the building. This can damage property to valuables, furniture and other items inside. Mold and algae growth if left unchecked are a health hazard. Leaking roofs can weaken the walls and cause the entire structure to become unsafe.
These issues can escalate out of control, leading to legal liabilities, higher insurance premiums and lowered property values. Apart from these issues, an old, sagging, damaged roof is an eyesore in the neighborhood and can attract opportunistic thieves and miscreants.
The Cost Of Roofing Repairs: The Facts
There are several major and minor factors that can affect your roof repair expenditure. If the damage is on an extensive scale, it’s wise to employ a trained, qualified and experienced roofer. This may not be the job for the average DIY enthusiast.
Whatever the kind of work required, you have to get a professional assessment done as a first step. This gives you an idea of the nature and extent of damage. Most roofing contractors can give you a detailed estimate based on their inspection. Compare and contrast rates and quality of work, time and labor involved before you sign up. Find more information here: https://easternmelbourneroofing.com.au/
In general, roof repair costs depend on these factors:
Size and Shape: Your roof may be a small, simple structure or it may be a large and complex one with several different levels and pitches. Repair costs will depend on the accessibility and ease of working.
Repair Type: Minor damage would obviously cost less than large-scale structural problems. If your roof has been damaged by falling branches or a major weather event, you will have to pay more. You may also have to repair the rafters, flashings or gutters and this will entail higher costs, longer time-frames, more materials and equipment.
Related costs: In some cases, you may have to add the cost of electrical works, plumbing and other structural works such as replacing beams or rafters.
Materials: Metal or tiled roofs are easier to work with, but if they are damaged, the costs can shoot up. Asphalt roofs are among the least expensive to work with since the cost of material and the labor are on the low side.
Building type and location: Residential roofs may cost less to repair than commercial ones mainly because of the size and complexity. If you live in an upscale urban area, the costs can be much higher than you’d pay for repairs in a rural location. In case you live in a protected or historically important area, the work has to be more specialized and in keeping with prescribed standards, and this can rack up the rates.
Professional costs: In the long run, it’s smarter to employ a well-trained, experienced and qualified roofer rather than a casual laborer or freelancer. Professionals have their documentation in order, such as licenses, insurance and permissions to work at heights. In case of an accident, they have insurance coverage and workers’ compensation, whereas an unlicensed roofer may not. Though the cost of employing a professional may be higher initially, it pans out in the long run. They can be held accountable in case of further problems and you can contact them easily.
Waste Disposal: Don’t forget to factor in the cost of waste-materials post repair work. Minor work may not generate much waste, but if the damage is extensive, there will be a lot of debris that needs to be properly disposed of.
Price variations across the industry: These can differ quite largely from place to place, and from roofing company to company. It’s important to get quotes from several reputed and reliable roofers, then compare and contrast them before you sign on the dotted line.