How Much Value Does a New Roof Add to Your House?

Does a new roof add value to a home? From boosting curb appeal to raising the resale value of a home to gaining at least two decades of protection – there are numerous reasons to take on a roofing project on your home. Most homeowners don’t even think about what’s involved in planning a roofing project until they begin to look for ways to lower their utility bills or when they think about putting their home on the market. Regardless of the factors leading up to planning for a new roof being installed on your home, finding the right contractor to help you is vitally important.

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The most common reason homeowners plan for a new roof is because their old one is nearing the end of its life and might already be showing signs of failure, most commonly in the form of moisture getting past the roofing material. But how much value does a new roof add?. Installing a new roof will definitely increase the value of the home and can even help it move faster on the market compared to homes that need major work, such as a new roof. But there are many more reasons why installing a new roof is a plus.

Does a new roof increase home value?

Does a new roof increase home value? The short answer is yes. The roof is one of the most important components of a home, as it offers a durable shield of protection to everything under it. There is a lot of value placed on the protection a roof offers, but this is not a small project – it’s one of the more expensive home improvements you can make. It’s even more expensive if you’ve already got two layers of roofing on the home that will have to be removed before the new one is installed.

Will a new roof increase home value? While frequent inspection and repairs are responsible actions, at some point it becomes more fiscally feasible to take on a full replacement, as the cost of repairs add up over time.

How does a new roof affect your home’s value

How does a new roof affect home value? First, the definition of “value” can mean a few things, two of the most important of which for most homeowners are related to money and aesthetics. A new roof adds monetary value to a home in numerous ways. First, think of utility bills. Homeowners spend thousands a year on utility bills and some of that money can be saved by keeping the climate controlled air in the home instead of leaking out. A new roof does this quite well.

lp smartside siding roofing downers grove

When a home is on the market, people are willing to pay more money for it if the roof is new. They know that in the next 20-plus years, they won’t have to replace it, so any premium they’re paying for the new roof is money well spent up front. There is also value in the fact that the new roof will protect everyone and their possessions better than a roof that is on its last few years. A new roof looks amazing, which is another perk for homeowners. That curb appeal is important when selling a home, but it’s also a point of pride for those who have no intention of leaving anytime soon.

So, how much is a new roof worth in terms of return on investment? That all depends on how decrepit your old roof was and what materials you used on your new roof. The basic ballpark figure most often used is that the average return on investment is 60 to 68 percent. As for resale value, a new roof can boost it by around $12,000.

The benefits of installing a new residential roof?

The benefits of a new roof for residential property owners are most often tied to comfort in the home (reduces drafts in the winter and blocks heat in the summer) and energy efficiency (lower utility bills). There is also the beauty that a new roof brings to a home that a family can enjoy for years and years.

A new roof brings durability and protection, which provides homeowners a sense of security. This updated layer of protection makes installing a new roof completely worth the time, energy and expense. In fact, while you won’t see a 100 percent return on investment in terms of money, a new roof brings so many benefits that homeowners know the expense is worth all the enhancements they get when the project is completed.

Here are main advantages of adding a new roof to your home:

Enhanced curb appeal

Apart from the siding, the roof is the most noticeable feature on a home. When the roof is really old, discolored, has cupped, ripped or missing shingles, it’s going to stand out and look absolutely horrible. A new roof with its fresh shingles and clean lines brings a highly valued aesthetic.

Fortunately, companies today are making asphalt shingles that come in many sizes, shapes and colors, which appeal to the tastes of just about every homeowner. And cedar, which has been a popular choice for more than a century, continues to be a material that can bring unrivaled value to the look of a home.

Increased safety

With a new roof, you don’t have to worry about the troubles that plague old roofs, such as mold and mildew caused by trapped moisture. Allowed to remain for too long, moisture can lead to rot, which is extremely dangerous. Homeowners look to their roofs to provide shelter, which is what a new roof can do better than an older roof.

When installed by a professional contractor with years of experience, you can rest assured that your new roof will protect you and yours for many years to come. It will repel rain and withstand the weight of a heavy snow. Shingles are now made to withstand hail in high winds and other debris that could potentially damage a home. Work with a contractor that will only use the best materials for your roof.

Improve energy efficiency

Old roofs lose their insulating abilities. Warm air that needs to stay in the house will be released, causing a drafty situation in the home and highly heating bills. Conversely, summer heat, which will be repelled by a new roof, easily finds its way into the home, causing discomfort and higher cooling bills.

Improved energy efficiency should be on everyone’s mind today from an eco-friendly standpoint, but there is also the added perk of savings related to utility bills that you get with improved energy efficiency of a new roof.

New manufacturer warranty

The warranty on a really old roof is most likely expired, which means your coverage is null and void. But with a new roof you can enjoy a long warranty that will have you covered for many years to come. Talk to your roofing contractor about the warranties on the roofing products they use and also talk to them about their workmanship warranties, which will cover you if they do anything wrong during installation.

Increase selling price

Something home shoppers become aware of quite fast as they begin their journey is the age of a roof on the houses they are interested in. Nobody wants to buy a home with a roof that needs to be replaced right away. What they do want is a home with a new roof, which means they might never have to replace it if they don’t plan on owning it for more than 20 years (most people remain in a home for 13 years before moving on). There are a variety of factors that impact how much a new roof can increase your selling price, but the average is around $12,000.

Yes, there is a cost associated with having a new roof installed on your home, but the perks of undertaking such a project are such that the value is easy to see and the return on investment just makes sense.

Short vs. long-term roof value

There’s no denying that new roof home values increase, but for how long does a new roof on a house give it that financial boost? That’s part of the short-term vs. long-term discussion that homeowners should have.

lp smartside siding roofing downers grove

The short-term value of a new roof includes the immediate curb appeal – the old roof is gone and replaced by a fresh, crisp new roof that catches the eye. It’s a “facelift” that vastly improves the appearance of the home. A new roof is often equated to the “new car smell,” which most car owners relish, but as the miles creep up, that aroma is replaced by odors. It’s the same with a roof – at some point, probably two decades after it was installed, preparations for a new roof have to be made.

As for long-term value, many consider this investment for a new roof one that pays off in the long run because under normal circumstances, a roof will last at least 15 to 30 years. Roofing product manufacturers have improved their processes and homeowners can expect to see the insulating factors of their new roof remain for many years, which means the home will be more comfortable and utilities bills under control.

How much does a new roof cost?

The big question every homeowner preparing to take on a roofing project has is related to cost. “How much does a new roof cost?” The answer will vary depending on a variety of factors, most related to materials and labor. It’s obvious that larger homes will cost more to roof, but there are many other aspects to consider. For example, a steep roof is more difficult to work on, which adds to the labor cost. Having to work around many objects, such as vents, skylights and chimneys will also add to the labor cost. The choice of roofing material will also impact the total cost of the project.

But to get a ballpark idea of what your roofing materials will cost, consider that the average for asphalt roof materials will cost between $250 and $350 per square (roofing language for 100 square feet). But if the existing roofing material needs to be removed, that adds to the labor required to complete the project, which means a square will now cost between $300 and $450.

roof replacement cost

Roofing cost vs. value

What every homeowner is trying to determine as they plan their roofing project is cost vs. value. It’s even more important for someone looking to put their home on the market. The new roof cost will probably never be 100 percent recouped, but the new roof value to home buyers factors in, as homes with new roofs are going to sell for more than ones with old roofs, and the ones with new roofs will also sell faster.

You also have to factor in the value related to appearances, the insulating properties of a new roof that can help to lower utility bills and value of having the protection/safety afforded by a new roof.

To get the best cost vs. value results, hire a quality contractor that knows how to choose the right materials and expertly installs your new roof. This ensures your roof is durable and will protect your home for many years.

Should you replace the roof before selling your house?

Putting a home on the market is a big deal. There are many decisions to be made and a huge one is “should you replace your roof before selling the house?”

There is no doubt that installing a new roof can attract home buyers and help you sell your home faster. You’ll also be able to list it for more money than you would if the home had an old roof on it. There is a delicate balance involved in the decision, because while you make a large monetary investment on a new roof, it’s not likely that you will be able to boost your list price enough to cover the entire cost of the project.

home for sale

There are two options when it comes to decide selling your house:

Selling a house that needs a new roof

Can you sell a house that needs a new roof? It’s definitely not the ideal scenario, because selling a house that needs a new roof makes it difficult to attract prospective buyers. For the vast majority of people, a home is the most expensive thing they will ever buy, which means there is a lot of thought going into this process and nobody wants to take on an expensive project like installing a new roof right after closing on the home.

If the market is hot and sellers are getting competitive bids, the old roof might not affect the amount of time it takes to sell the home, but there is a really good chance the home will sell for less than one that has a new roof on it. Buyers will rightfully feel like they should get a discount on a home that needs extensive work, so it’s always good to rethink selling a house with an old roof.

Replace the roof before selling a house

Does a new roof help sell a house? The answer, undoubtedly, is yes. When you replace the roof before selling the house, it will have amazing curb appeal, which will attract more prospective buyers. But making this decision requires some forethought. For example, would the house still sell for a decent price if the old roof was repaired instead of replaced? If the roof is in really bad shape, the repairs won’t likely be enough.

If you want to sell your house for the highest possible price, replacing the roof is the right move, as you’re more likely to get the asking price and could even entice a bidding war between buyers. Futhermore, replacing the roof will more than likely reduce its time on the market.

As always, consulting with experts about replacing your roof or staying with the old one before putting it on the market is the best advice. A roofing contractor can inspect your roof and give you an accurate estimate about what a replacement will cost, so you can take that and factor it into your return on investment when selling.

If your roof is really old and in bad shape, there’s a chance it won’t pass inspection. That means that you will probably have to sell the home for a much lower price and the new owner will have to put a roof on it before they can move in, which is kind of a worst-case-scenario for a real estate transaction. Talk to us at VIS Exterior and we will guide you to making the decision that is right for you.

New roof installation before selling a house

Updated homes do much better on the market than homes that look like “fixer uppers.” There are perks to having interior items, such as new HVAC or new hardwoods, but most home buyers get their first impression of a home by looking at its exterior, which is why new roof installation is a huge bonus.

complete asphalt shingle roof replacement downers grove

The cost associated with a new roof requires some consideration, as getting a 100 percent return on investment is not likely. Still, there are perks to consider outside of cost alone. For example, putting on a new roof before selling a house could lead to receiving multiple offers. You’ll also be more likely to sell the home faster, which is a value proposition for many sellers.

Your property is an investment, so if you want to get the most out of it and avoid a situation where you’re getting offers that are far below your asking price, you might need to make an investment in the roof before you put it on the market.

Signs you should replace a roof before selling a house

There are times when the decision to get a new roof is clearly obvious. If it’s 20-plus years old and showing its age, most homeowners will see the need to replace the roof before selling the house. But there are times when the question of when to get a new roof isn’t so obvious. Maybe some minor repairs will suffice? There are some tell-tale signs that can help guide your decision to replace the roof before selling the house.

Signs you need a new roof:

  • Sagging areas of the roof
  • Missing shingles
  • Mold
  • Dried and cracked caulking
  • Damaged flashing
  • Asphalt shingle granules collecting in the gutter
  • Dents in shingles
  • Missing shingles
  • Sunlight visible in the attic
  • Water damage on interior surfaces

While one or more of these signs present on your roof might not mean that you’re certain to need a replacement, these are significant problems that require a thorough inspection and can lead to a recommendation of complete roof replacement.

What type of roof materials add more appraisal value to your home?

New roofing materials can add more value to your home, but do different roofing materials provide a better return on investment? Fortunately, the shingles being produced today are far more durable than the ones produced 20 or 30 years ago, which means even the mid-range quality asphalt shingles will increase the value of your property. Balancing affordable materials against expectations on the return on that investment is something all homeowners must weigh when choosing the best type of roofing material.

The new roof appraisal value might be more on a new cedar shingle roof than what you will see on a new asphalt roof, but you also have to consider the cedar material is much more expensive, which will impact the return on investment with a premium material like that. But one thing both materials have in common is that because they are new, the warranty on them is also new and can add value to appraisal.

roofing types

The best asphalt shingles for new roof installation

New roof installation using the best asphalt shingles will include a product like architectural shingles, which are among the thickest and most durable of all asphalt shingles. General Aniline & Film (GAF) is one of the most popular premium brands on the market. GAF is focused on making high-quality products, but is also known for keeping their pricing competitive.

Another brand to note is Owens Corning. Roofing contractors are huge proponents of this brand, as this company is committed to bringing a diverse range of quality shingles to the market. They are durable, have a great aesthetic appeal and include a warranty that comforts homeowners and contractors alike.

GAF roof shingles and Owens Corning roof shingles are the go-to brands for VIS Exterior, as our clients appreciate the value they get out of these products, as well as the stunning results when they are installed on their homes.

How much does a new roof increase home value?

There are many ways to increase the value of your home, but one that is instantly noticeable and long lasting is a new roof. But how much does a new roof increase your home value? A new roof on a house brings renewed curb appeal, which can help homeowners sell a house faster. And while a new roof will increase home value, the return on investment will vary according to a variety of factors.

Analyzing ROI on new roofs

The return on investment (ROI) of a new roof might seem complex due to the volume of factors that must be considered, but the equation is as simple as taking the cost of investment against the profit gained in the sale of the home. The big question is: Is the cost of installing a new roof going to impact the outcomes to such a positive degree that it makes sense for your home?

You have to consider that “value” isn’t always strictly about dollars. Take the following factors as examples:

Longer life

A new roof will not need to be replaced for at least two decades. This is attractive to buyers who do not want to take on the expense of a new roof installation project.

Durability

A new roof is at the peak of its structural integrity, fully protecting everything under it. Whether it’s going on the market or for existing owners, this protection is of great value.

Insulation

Utility bills can be greatly impacted by a new roof. Old roofs are notoriously drafty, forcing homeowners to pump up the heat in the winter and the AC in the summer. Better insulation properties of a new roof can add value when it comes time to pay the utility bills.

Time on market

When time is of the essence for homeowners wishing to sell their property, the added perk of a new roof will entice more buyers, helping to get the home off the market sooner.

An important statistic in regard to recouping the cost of the investment of a new roof is that on average, the ROI is around 60 to 68 percent. When you take into account the other value-added perks, this can be an attractive figure. At VIS Exterior, we consult with our clients so they are fully aware of what is possible with a new roof so they have full visibility regarding all the possibilities and potential outcomes.

Calculating the new roof’s return on investment

While it is rare to see a 100 percent new roof return on investment (ROI), the resale value will increase compared to a home with an old roof and especially compared to a home with a roof that won’t pass inspection. The national average that’s been out there for a while now is that the new roof ROI is around 60 to 68 percent of the cost to install it.

ROI roof replacement figures should consider a variety of factors. For example, did the new installation include removing an old roof? Having previous layers removed will add to the total cost of the project and can reduce the ROI. Is the house large and/or does the steepness of the roof exceed the norm? Both of these factors will potentially take away from your ROI.

But you also have to consider the benefits that might not be completely reflected in the ROI, such as value-added perks including curb appeal, which increases the speed at which the house can be sold.

The ROI will likely be different from one house to another, but consider the following stat to get a better idea of the ROI you can expect:

Average resale value of installing a shingle roof

Among the most prominent roofing material types across the U.S. is asphalt shingle roofing. It’s among the more affordable roofing materials and is relatively easy to install. You can generally count on the shingles to last for about 20 years but even longer for the more premium asphalt shingle products.

The average cost of installing asphalt shingles on a 2,000-square-foot roof is around $8,500, which includes labor and materials. With the national average of 60 percent ROI, that means you’ll recoup about $5,100. Some estimates go up to 68 percent, which would net you $5,780.

When you work with VIS Exterior, we provide you with an estimate you can count on so you can make fact-based decisions on the best move for your home. We know it’s difficult, if not impossible, to know exactly what your ROI will be because so much depends on the real estate market, but having that initial estimate of what your roofing project will cost is a vital piece of information and a good place to start.

What is a home appraisal and who should get it?

In the process of buying, selling or refinancing a property, an appraisal is required, as it will evaluate the home’s value in the marketplace. An unbiased professional will make an in-person inspection and shed light on the details of the home including its condition. “How much does a new roof affect an appraisal?” The roof weighs heavily into this evaluation, so replacing a worn out roof with a new one can only positively impact that value of the home.

asphalt shingle roofing replacement

Certified appraisal professionals are experts at assessing the condition of roofs. They know how to spot damaged, weak and compromised areas of a roof and factor that into the value of the home. Should they come back with information that could dissuade potential buyers from submitting an offer, that’s when a new roof should be in the planning.

Does a home appraiser look at the new roof?

Homeowners considering putting their property on the market often ask, “will a new roof increase appraisal value?” Knowing that any transaction will require the services of an appraiser, they also ask, “does an appraiser look at the roof?” As professionals who offer an unbiased opinion of the condition and value of a property, appraisers definitely look at the roof and will make a judgment regarding its condition. Fortunately, a new roof will increase the appraisal value. The contrary is true of an old and damaged roof.

Roofs that are past their prime are at risk for leaks, rot and potential infestation of pests. An appraiser will look closely at the roof and comment on its strengths and weaknesses in the report, so if it is past its prime and leaks, rot and pests have already taken hold, the home’s value will reflect those inadequacies.

Is it worth replacing the roof before selling the house?

Value and worth aren’t all about dollars and cents. Is it worth replacing the roof before selling a house? The answer is “yes,” for a variety of reasons. A new residential roof is a huge bonus to homebuyers who see value in a new roof, not only because they won’t have to shoulder the burden of the cost associated with a roof replacement any time in the next two decades, but also because a new roof has maximum insulating power and protects everything under it for years to come.

royal siding shingle roofing

Does a new roof add value to your home? Yes, it does add more value because you can boost your asking price compared to a home with an old roof. Another perk is that a new roof adds massive amounts of curb appeal, making a first impression that will help your home stand out to potential buyers. All things being equal, a buyer might be inclined to pay more for your home simply because it has a new roof.

For most homebuyers, getting a bad first impression, which is often the exterior of a home, will dissuade them from even doing a walkthrough. They’ll simply cross it off their list and move on to homes that do not have exterior problems. And because the roof represents roughly 40 percent of the exterior, installing a new roof is eye catching and puts you in a much better position.

Buyers know that a new roof will also help them keep utility costs down, as the insulating properties are unmatched. Rather than pay hefty heating and cooling bills and suffer the uncomfortable living conditions, they are assured that a new roof can help them experience the exact opposite.

Tips to maximize new roof ROI

While the goal is to get the maximum return on investment (ROI) is always the goal, there are some tips contractors offer homeowners that are tried and true. A new roof ROI might not reach 100 percent, but it’s something to aim for.

roof repairs willowbrook

The following are some tips for maximizing your return on investment:

Avoid laying new shingles over the old ones

It’s more cost effective (in the short term) to leave the old roof on because of the labor involved in tearing it off, but your ROI roof replacement outcomes aren’t as positive in the long term. First off, a second layer of roofing will add tons of weight to your support structures, which is almost never recommended, especially in areas where snowfall can add tons more weight.

Home inspectors are also wary of two-layered roofs because of what can be hidden underneath. Even though inspectors are experts at what they do, they don’t have X-ray vision and can potentially miss lurking problems that become huge issues later. This is why a new roof installed over an existing roof is never given the same lifespan as a new roof without an existing layer.

Homebuyers are often warned about a roof that already has two layers because of its vulnerability to high winds and the fact that should they take on a roof replacement, they’ll have to pay for the first two layers to be removed before the new one can be installed.

Don’t choose the cheapest type of roofing material

Cutting costs might seem attractive up front, lowering the budget for a project significantly, but experience shows that you’ll end up paying for it in the end. This includes installing substandard roofing materials. While asphalt shingle manufacturers have improved on the technology in recent years, there are still plenty of products out there that lack the durability of more preferred products. Even a small upgrade to a mid-range material is significantly better.

Cheap material also looks less appealing than quality roofing materials. Your new roof will lack the anticipated boost in curb appeal when you go the cheap route. Rather, you should select the material that makes your home consistent with or better than those around it.

When you choose high-quality roofing materials from a trusted manufacturer, it will look great and have durability and lasting power that brings value to your home in many ways. High-quality material doesn't exactly mean “expensive” material – talk to your roofing contractor about the brands they know and trust that are also competitively priced.

Keep up with regular roof maintenance

There are situations where you might get a new roof installed but don’t plan on putting it on the market for a few years or more. You can enhance its value by having it inspected on a regular basis so your contractor can keep up on small issues, which would otherwise be more extensive problems later. Regular maintenance is always a good idea, regardless of the age of the roof.

Ensure the new roof installation is carried out by an experienced roofer

A bad roofer using the best materials will still yield poor results. Asphalt shingles, which are considered “easy” to install, still require the installation expertise that only professionals possess. Quality contractors are knowledgeable about a variety of brands, shapes and styles of shingles, from asphalt to cedar, and know the quirks that each of them present during installation. If you want to get at least two decades out of your new roof, only work with a qualified contractor.

Emphasize the benefits of your new roof in resale

While homebuyers will find a new roof attractive in appearance, they might need to be informed of its value outside of the aesthetics. For example, a new roof has maximum insulating properties that can help it maintain interior comfort year round, as well as control utility bills, which is a value-added perk.

You can also emphasize that the new roof will not likely require repairs that are commonplace on older roofs. And most importantly, they will not have to go through the time and expense of a reroofing project any time in the near future. These are perks that can help your home stand out amongst others on the market and entice more potential buyers to tour your home.

Offer buyers a warranty transfer

Looking for that extra bit of enticement for potential buyers? Talk to your contractor about transferring your warranty to the new owners. Quality contractors can make this happen, often for a nominal fee, which affords the new owners the ability to receive repairs for free or a discounted rate. While quality contractors rarely have to revisit a jobsite, this added bit of assurance to the new owner is valuable.

Keep in mind that roof warranties don’t often automatically transfer after the property is sold. That’s why it’s smart to consult with your roofing contractor prior to signing on to them doing the work. It’s important because you’ll want the leverage a warranty affords you in making the sale and perhaps even getting your asking price.

VIS Exterior is happy to work with you on all your warranty needs, whether it’s for you or the next owner.

Hire professionals for a new residential roof installation project in DuPage County

DuPage County homeowners needing a new residential roof should search for a local contractor that has the experience necessary to complete their project with outstanding results. At VIS Exterior, we’re proud to be Dupage County’s go-to roofing contractor, as we live and work among our clients who count on us to put them first.

house after roofing

Taking on a roofing project can be intimidating and there are many questions that need to be answered. We will walk you through every step of the process, from the initial consultation to our inspection and estimate. We will let you know if your old roof needs to be removed, discuss the various options in roofing materials, including size, shape and color of shingles, and expertly install a new roof that will last for many years.

If you’re looking for a contractor that offers a competitive price and offers premium services, and one that never springs hidden fees on you, contact us and let’s discuss your project.

Frequently asked questions about new roof installation

It is recommended to have all of your questions answered before you decide on a roofing contractor. At VIS Exterior, we’ve been roofing long enough to have answers to all the common questions and many more.

How to know when you need a new roof?

It’s not always easy to determine how to know when you need a new roof. Most homeowners will become curious about the condition of their roof when it begins to reach the 20-year mark, which is usually when roofs begin to show signs of age. You don’t have to experience major leaks to begin planning a roof replacement, either. Old roofs just become old and worn looking, which means they are at far greater risk of failing in the near future.

Common signs that new roof installation should be in the planning stage are when you see missing, cracked or worn shingles. Also, the protective layer of granules on asphalt shingles will begin to fall off and collect in your gutters when the shingles are toward the end of their lifespan.

If you see sagging, depression or dents in your roof, there is a possibility that the problems run deeper than just the shingles and that the decking (plywood base) could also need to be replaced.

If you see evidence of moisture in your attic or on the surfaces of your interiors, this could be related to slow leaks that start in the roof and could lead to more severe issues if not addressed very soon. Mold, mildew and rot are also related to moisture problems.

Finally, many homeowners become aware of potential roof problems following a hail storm, which is one of the biggest threats to even the most durable roofing products. If you’ve recently encountered a storm with high winds, it’s advised to do a self assessment of your roof and follow up with an inspection from an expert.

What time of year is best to install a new roof?

Planning in advance can make the timing of your roofing project much less of a hassle, as roofing contractors can get quite busy during the most preferable months for taking on a roofing project. The weather determines the best time for new roof installation, which is when the rain subsides and the temperatures are optimal (not too hot and not too cold).

If you give your contractor plenty of notice, they can put you on the schedule so you’re not waiting for their schedule to clear. Quality roofing contractors will keep an eye on the weather and take advantage of the days that are best suited for roofing projects throughout the year. Most contractors will tell you that the best time to get your roof replaced is before it fails on you.

How often should a roof be replaced?

An asphalt shingle roof will last 15 to 30 years on average. That might seem like an expansive gap, but you have to consider that there are many factors that can vary from one home to the next that impact the longevity of their roof. For example, a roof that takes the full brunt of high winds (lack of trees to block the most severe gusts) will be at higher risk of damage, which could lead to replacement. The quality of the contractor doing the installation has a lot to do with it, as does the materials they use.

Most homeowners will reside in one home for 13 years before moving onto the next. If your roof was already 10 years old when you moved in, you could be facing a reroofing project in the near future, especially if you are planning on selling soon and want it to perform better on the housing market.

How to finance a roof replacement?

Most homeowners don’t have a spare $20,000 to pay for a new roof, and if that’s the case with you, finance a roof replacement with your contractor. For example, at VIS Exterior, we have attractive financing with flexible payment options that allows you to get the work done that you need now and pay for it in installments.

For example, with our 12 month installment program, you will pay no interest. If that time frame is too aggressive, you can choose the 60 month installment program with a fixed interest rate of only 6.99 percent. If your credit score could use some work – don’t worry – we will still work with clients who have a 580 FICO or better. No equity is ever required.

Is a new roof a good investment for your home?

When the warning signs that you need a new roof begin to become apparent, you don’t have to wonder if a new roof is a good investment – any quality roofing contractor will tell you that the time is now to plan for a new roof. But speaking of the terminology “investment,” a new roof has a variety of perks that can essentially reimburse some of your investment, but you shouldn’t expect a 100 percent return on investment in the monetary sense.

A new roof is a good investment for homeowners who want to put their property on the market, but is also of value to homeowners who want to stay ahead of potential problems with their aging roof. An old roof that is already showing signs of deterioration can cause collateral damage that can add on to the cost of a new roof, which is why the best investments are made prior to extensive roof damage.

There’s no doubt that a roof replacement is one of the more expensive projects a homeowner will manage, as it involves a lot of materials and expert roofing professionals to do the labor. This has many homeowners thinking about their return on investment, but again, a new roof offers a variety of perks that go beyond that initial expense, including better insulating properties that can help lower utility bills, which is an ongoing savings.

Does a bad roof affect an appraisal?

Appraisals are a crucial part of either refinancing a home or preparing to put it on the market. Does a bad roof affect an appraisal? Yes, the appraiser will take an extensive look at the entire roofing system and make notes of and evaluate every part of it to determine its value. All things being equal, the house with a new roof will be more valuable than the house with the bad roof.

Appraisers make a market analysis of homes in the area, but they do so on ones of similar size, design and build. Appraisers’ main job is to determine the market value of a property, but they can also make recommendations for various repairs a roof might need, which for a prospective homeowner equates to dollars they’ll have to shell out in the future.

Does a metal roof increase home value?

Not all roofs are asphalt shingles or cedar shake/shingles. Some are metal – a material that has been lauded as a premium product that extends long beyond the life of an asphalt shingle and can therefore provide a better return on investment. Unfortunately, the math doesn’t really work out in the favor of metal roofs.

Metal roofing and related materials are expensive, as is the labor involved in the installation. Furthermore, appraisers aren’t likely to add any value to a home with a metal roof compared to a similar home with an asphalt shingle roof, which means when you make that extra investment in the metal roof, you don’t see any extra return.

You also have to consider that metal roofs aren’t common in most neighborhoods, which means prospective home buyers will look at it as an anomaly – they don’t know what to expect out of it and will be wary of investigating the home any further.

Does the color of the roof affect home value?

While everyone has a specific and unique taste in the color of house decor, the roofs on homes in most neighborhoods reflect an accepted color standard, which is various hues of brown, black, gray and green, perhaps even shades of blue. Anything more extravagant than that will not appeal to the average person, which means should you choose a color that goes beyond the norm, it could be a distraction a potential homebuyer will not be interested in.

Most contractors will evaluate the colors in the neighborhood and weigh those against the architecture of the home they’re working on and recommend a shingle that fits both. For example, small homes can appear larger with lighter colored roofing. When you put your home on the market, the goal is to sell it fast and as close to your asking price as possible. Your contractor will help you choose a color of shingle that will meet those goals.

Should you buy a house with a bad roof?

Many potential homeowners are looking for a “turn key” home where all they have to do is close the deal and move their belongings into it. While some are looking for homes they can personal with their extensive DIY skills and can potentially save money through buying one that needs a lot of work, it’s never recommended to attempt replacing a roof without expert knowledge. Too many things can go wrong without a quality roofing contractor on the job.

When sellers do not want to foot the bill for a new roof, they’ll often lower the price of the home, which can look attractive to prospective buyers, but they have to weigh those “savings” against the new roof installation price, as well as the inconveniences involved. There is a lot to weigh in making the decision to purchase a house with a damaged roof, but consult with a trusted roofing contractor about the potential costs involved and you will get a better idea if you can move forward or keep searching.

Val Slajus
Owner / Author
Val Slajus

My journey began with a passion for home improvement, and I established VIS Exterior because I firmly believe that everyone deserves to live in a beautiful home. With years of experience in the roofing and siding craft, I'm dedicated to helping you enhance the protection and aesthetics of your home. Through this blog, I'm excited to share my knowledge and insights, empowering you to make informed decisions when planning your next exterior renovation project.

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