Is it Time for a New Roof?

Tags

Buying a home, homes for sale in Jacksonville FL, Jacksonville FL Real Estate, Jacksonville Real Estate, real estate, real estate advice, real estate information, Real Estate Team, real estate tips, roof, roof maintenance, roof repair, The best real estate agent in Jacksonville

If you want to keep your home in tip-top shape (and avoid expensive problems down the road), you need to stay on top of home maintenance—and that includes your home’s exterior.

But what, exactly, on your home’s exterior needs maintenance, repair, or full-on replacement—and, just as importantly, when?

A recent article from realtor.com outlined when and how often to repair or replace exterior elements of your home, including:

• Gutters. Gutters need regular maintenance to function properly and keep water runoff from causing damage. Plan to clean your gutters at least twice per year and, if they’re made from aluminum or galvanized steel (the most common gutter material), replace them after 20 years.
• Windows. Windows generally have a life-span of about two decades—but if you notice any damage to the glass or frame (for example, cracks in the glass or mold on the frame), you’ll want to replace them sooner.
• Roof. Depending on your roofing materials, your roof should last anywhere between 15 to 30 years (for standard asphalt shingles) or 50 to 75 years (metal roofing). But that’s only if you take care of it! Make sure to keep your roof clear of any overhanging branches that could damage the roof or cause mold issues.

Give us a call today and let’s discuss upgrades that help your bottom line when you sell! Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS The Hanley Home Team of Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside 904-515-2479 HanleyHomeTeam.com

Roof Maintenance Tips

Tags

flashing, gutters, homes for sale in Jacksonville FL, insulation, roof, roof inspection, roof maintenance, roof repair, shingles

Ah, the humble roof. We forget that the single most important structural element in our home is the roof. It provides shelter for those we love and the things we value.

It’s easy to let maintenance slide on something we take for granted. With better weather days upon us, now is a good time to inspect the roof and make sure it’s up to the task of protecting your home’s value.

Here are some crucial elements you’ll want to look for during a roof inspection:

1. Are the gutters clean and in good shape? Organic debris building up in your gutters can cause water to pool and foster an environment for roof rot.

2. Do you see any curling around the bottom edges? Are there any gaps or holes in the soffit?

3. Are there surface cracks in shingles? Cracks warn you of impending disintegration or separation.

4. Is the flashing in good shape? Flashing is material installed to prevent the passage of water into a structure from a joint. This often amounts to shaped metal around seams for chimneys, vents, etc.

5. Are there any blisters? This could reveal a defect or possibly insufficient ventilation.

6. Is the insulation in good shape? Attic insulation can protect a roof from warping and reducing overall moisture in your home. Additionally, it helps keep snow from melting and refreezing, a major contributor to water damage.

7. Is anything going to fall on the roof? Part of roof maintenance is ensuring there’s nothing which might cause an undue load on the house. This includes rotten trees or dangerous overhanging limbs. It’s also a good idea to look at areas which may be eroded by vegetation or tree contact.

A happy roof makes for a happy home. May these simple tips help you protect your home for years to come. If you do need a new roof, get in touch, and we can put you in touch with some trustworthy roofers in the area: Kevin and Jennifer Hanley, REALTORS, Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Southside – http://www.HanleyHomeTeam.com