A Really Beautiful Home

I must admit, that one of the least gratifying expenses I’ve ever incurred on my home has to be replacing the roof.  While it’s true that it needs to by done or all kinds of problems can result, the truth is it’s hard to get much personal enjoyment over having a new roof.  Other than the one time you look at it just after it’s been replaced, and nod in agreement that the shingles you picked out are a nice color, you’ll probably never look at it again.  It’s kind of like your car.  As long as it’s there and doing it’s job you likely pay very little notice to it.

There are certainly plenty of choices when it comes to roofing materials, and where you live is likely the biggest determining factor in the kind you’ll pick.  I like the look of ceramic tiles, but if I was crazy enough to put them up in the northern wintry climate I live in, I’d probably be upset in a few years when they needed replacing.  Slate or asphalt shingles would be a better choice for me.  Although now, there is a steel roofing system available, that looks like adobe ceramic tiles.  They have the advantage of being very attractive, and extremely long lasting.  The downside being of course the extra expense.

Many people don’t notice their roof, until it’s too late.  Usually, that means they have a leak coming through their ceiling.  At that point things can get expensive.  It’s far better, if you can catch roofing problems before they become major.  If you have asphalt shingles, watch for the shingles starting to turn up at the corners.  That’s a sure indicator, that the shingles are aging and will need replacing soon.  Keep an eye out for missing shingles, especially along the roof line.  Depending on the size, slope, and shape of your roof, you may need to climb up on it to do a proper visual inspection.  If your afraid of heights, maybe it’s time to enlist the assistance of your daredevil brother in law.

The nice thing, about doing regular inspections of your roof, is that you can plan ahead for the expense of replacing the roof.  Believe me, that’s far better then having to come up with a few thousand dollars on short notice to replace a roof.  Plus, being able to plan ahead means you can shop around for the best priced roofing contractor with the best reputation.  You know those guys won’t be around on short notice.  They’re always booked months in advance.

One last note.  Don’t just inspect the roof after you own the house.  Do it before you buy any house.  It’s something overlooked by many new home buyers.  Especially those that don’t employ a home inspector before purchasing.