Should You Replace Your Roof Before Selling Your Home?

Posted on: 25 April 2022

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It's common for homeowners to do a few projects and fix things up before they sell a home. However, it's not always easy to decide which improvements to make. You may look up at your roof, for example, and wonder if replacing it would increase your home's value or help you sell faster. The answer, not surprisingly, is "it depends." Here are some signs that you might be better off replacing the roof prior to listing the home.

Your roof is only a few years from its expected replacement date.

If you have any paperwork from when your roof was last replaced, take a look at it. The paperwork will generally specify how long the roof is expected to last. For example, it may state that the roofers installed a 30-year roof or a 20-year roof. If your roof is only a couple of years off from its expected lifespan, you may just want to replace it now. Homeowners may be less interested if you don't replace the roof and they know they'll need to do it in a few years.

Your roof has trees hanging over it.

Trees and roofs don't mix well. A tree can scrape against the roof, causing it to lose granules. It also shades the roof, creating an environment where moss and algae can thrive. If there is a tree overhanging your roof and it shows any signs of this type of damage, you may want to replace the roof prior to sale. This will reassure the buyers that the roof is in good shape in spite of the trees. Having the trees taken down may be a good choice, too.

Your roof looks old and worn.

Roofs can look old and worn without leaking or having any functional problems. However, if a roof looks old and worn, this may turn off a buyer. They may not even stick around long enough to hear that the roof isn't leaking. Having the roof replaced may be your best option, as the new roof will make a good first impression. And first impressions are everything when selling a home!

Replacing a roof prior to selling your home may be a good choice. If the roof is only a few years from the end of its life, or if it's shaded by a tree or showing signs of wear, talk to a roof replacement company. They can offer you a quote, which can help you make your final decision. 

For more information on residential roofing, contact a professional near you.