Your roof is a major investment, and like all things, it ages. If your roof is over 20 years old, there are several key considerations to keep in mind to ensure your home remains protected and compliant with insurance requirements. In Pinellas County, Old Time Roofing is here to help you navigate these challenges and provide the best solutions for your roofing needs.
Homeowners Insurance
One crucial aspect to be aware of is homeowners insurance. Insurers may refuse to renew your policy if your roof is deemed too old. Some insurance providers will even mandate a roof replacement if it exceeds a certain age, as an old roof can pose significant liability or hazard, particularly in South Florida with its inclement weather. Additionally, filing an insurance claim becomes challenging with an older roof, as most policies cover accidental damages but not normal wear and tear. A 20-year-old roof is generally considered past its life expectancy, making it difficult to claim insurance for any issues that arise.
Repairing an Old Roof
If you discover a roof leak or other issues, repairs might seem like a viable option. However, with a 20-year-old roof in Pinellas County, it’s often not worth the cost to continue repairing the damage. Roof repairs can cause vibrations that lead to further damage in vulnerable areas of the roof deck, often in places far from the original repair site. This can result in more extensive and expensive repairs. Painting the roof is also not recommended, as it can trap moisture, leading to issues like bulging materials and mold. At this stage, replacing the roof is usually the best course of action.
Roof Maintenance
Maintaining your roof is important, but if it’s older than 15 years, pressure washing it is not advisable. The additional strain can lead to leaks and further damage, especially if the roof tiles or shingles are already compromised. Homeowners in Pinellas County should inspect for cracks in the walls of their second-story homes, which can indicate that moisture has entered through the roof and is now trapped behind the stucco. Moisture that is not properly addressed can lead to significant problems.
Investing in New Roofing
Replacing an old roof is often in your best financial interest. Continual repairs can quickly add up and may end up costing more than a new roof. At Old Time Roofing, we understand that a roof replacement is a significant investment, which is why we offer a variety of financing options to meet your needs. Financing your new roof could result in a monthly payment ranging from $500 to $8,000, but this investment can lead to substantial savings through insurance credits and reduced energy costs. While replacing your roof may seem expensive, the peace of mind and protection it offers is invaluable.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to address your aging roof. Contact Old Time Roofing today for a comprehensive assessment and learn more about our financing options. Ensure your home remains safe, secure, and compliant with insurance requirements. Call us now to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a new, durable roof.
By addressing these important aspects of maintaining and replacing an aging roof, you can protect your investment and avoid costly repairs down the line. Old Time Roofing in Pinellas County is your trusted partner for all your roofing needs, providing expert advice and quality service to ensure your home stays safe and secure.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing which is the premier Pinellas County Commercial Roofing company! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.