Page 23 - Real Estate Now-Mar/Apr 2022

Inspect regularly
Depending on the type of roof and warranty it comes with, you may need to get your roof checked annually. If
you know what to look for, you can do it yourself, but it’s always best to leave it to the professionals with trained
eyes and special tools.

How can you tell if your roof needs repair or replacing?
There are a few indicators something is
wrong with your roof. It’s time to call a
professional if you see:
• water spots, streaks, or discolouration
on ceilings and walls;
• a sagging ceiling;
• cracked or curled shingles;

• decaying or paint peeling from
eavestrough;
• missing asphalt granules;

• mould or moss growth;
• spots without snow, which could
indicate a leak;

• light coming through from outside;
• damaged roof deck or flashing (the
material that directs water away); or

• loose roof tiles.
In many cases, the above issues can be easily fixed. Problems like leaks can be repaired by sealing the crack or
replacing some shingles. However, you may want to consider replacing the roof altogether if the damage is extensive,
if it’s more than 20 years old, or out of warranty.
A roof replacement may be costly (between $4,700 and $25,000, according to Alpine Credits), but it could save your
home from further structural damages and even more expensive repairs in the future. A new roof can also help
increase the value of your home because of the safety and curb appeal it adds.
“Roofs are a big ticket item, and significant repairs or replacement count as a major renovation that will help increase
the value of your home, similar to upgrading of the windows, furnace, etc.,” says Maniza Khan, a sales representative
and REALTOR® with Ottawa-based Rasooli Real Estate Group. “You should take into account the age of the roof, the
material used to build it, and what direction the house is facing.” ■

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