Planning a kitchen remodel or maybe FINALLY tackling that bathroom?
Fun times! Most people start planning renovations by browsing new countertops, faucets, and flooring options. Painting tips. Inspiration for that “wow factor.”
But there’s one part of your home that gets neglected during nearly every renovation…
The roof.
We know, we know. Your roof isn’t the exciting part of home renovation. It’s not what people take selfies with in their new kitchens. But that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be considered when remodeling.
Here’s the problem with renovating a home that has roof issues:
- Mold growth. Water damage.
- Your beautiful new remodel can be ruined by an aging or damaged roof. Read on to learn:
- Why roofs are commonly overlooked during remodeling projects
- Why roof problems are so expensive to ignore
- Signs your roof needs repair before renovating
- How to budget for roof repairs during your renovation
Why Roofs Are Commonly Overlooked During Remodeling Projects
If you think about it, we get it. Roofs aren’t sexy. Chances are you’ve never posted a photo of your roof shingles on Instagram.
But that “out of sight, out of mind” mentality is causing homeowners to lose thousands of dollars in repair costs. One study from Hanover Insurance Group found that 59.5% of homeowners failed to inspect their roof between 2023 and 2024.
Yikes.
The problem is, roofing damage accounts for 70-90% of residential losses during catastrophic weather events. Minor wear and tear can become pricy when it’s left unchecked.
That’s why getting roof repair services from The Roof Doctor before starting ANY renovation is so critical. It protects your whole investment!
Want to think of it another way?
Would you finish renovating a home if it had major foundation problems? No. So why put new cabinets in if your roof is leaking?
Roof problems can severely damage the rest of your home and should always be taken seriously.
Why Roof Problems Are So Expensive to Ignore
Let’s talk about money.
Roof repair and replacement costs climbed to $31 billion dollars in 2024. Roof issues increased 30% just since 2022.
Repair and replacement costs are soaring thanks to Mother Nature. Wind and hail claims account for over half of all residential roofing issues.
But wait, there’s more bad news.
Homes that scored lower on overall roof condition filed 60% MORE losses with insurers than homes that graded their roof as excellent or good condition. About 38% of homes across the U.S. are sitting in that not-so-great roof category.
What does this mean for homeowners doing renovations?
If you remodel your kitchen but ignore your roof, you’re eventually going to pay to fix your roof twice. Once to repair the damage that was already done. And a second time when water leaks destroy all your fabulous new upgrades.
Hello ceiling stains… ruining your beautiful new kitchen renovation.
Signs Your Roof Needs Attention Before Renovating
Time to play detective! If you’re not sure whether your roof is in good shape or needs some tender love and care, look for these surefire signs:
- Missing or cracked roof shingles. See anything hanging off your roof or don’t see shingles where you should? Water loves to find its way through these holes.
- Dark spots on your ceiling. Even worse. You can see water damage inside your home already.
- Sagging areas of your roof. No bueno. Water’s done some serious damage.
- Moss or algae on your roof. These guys hold moisture against your roof and speed up the wear and tear.
- Loose granules in your gutters. Remember how shingles should be slick? Sand-like granules washing into your gutters means they’re getting bald.
- Visible daylight through your attic. You can see sunlight beaming through your attic? So can rain and snow!
The typical recommendation is to have roofs professionally inspected at least annually. But if you’re making changes to your home’s interior, a roof inspection is even more crucial.
A small leak won’t seem like a big deal. Water damage spreads like a crab on LEGOs. Before you know it you could be dealing with mold problems, rotted wood, and seriously compromised structural integrity. None of that is cheap to fix. And NONE of it should be ignored once you’ve dropped thousands on a remodel.
How to Budget for Roof Repair During Your Renovation
If you really want to be smart about renovations. The best time to repair your roof is BEFORE you start any interior work.
Here’s why:
Get a professional inspection before you start budgeting for your renovation. Now you’ll know exactly what needs to be done to keep your roof in great shape. Simple repairs like caulk sealing or replacing shingles aren’t too costly. If you wait until they lead to roof leaks. You’ve waited too long.
Roof repair costs vary, but most homeowners spend between $400 and $2,000 on repairing roofs. Major roof repairs range from $3,000 to $6,000 or more.
Repair versus replacement? A brand new roof will set you back an average of $9,500 to $21,000. Yikes!
But regular inspection and maintenance can prolong the life of your roof by decades. Preventative care is cheaper than putting a new roof on your home.
Oh, and don’t forget this…
Roof replacement provides homeowners with 100% return on investment when it comes time to sell! New roofs are one of the only home exterior projects that nets you money after the sale.
Making the Smart Choice
Renovating your home without first inspecting your roof is like buying a car with no idea what’s under the hood.
Ready for the pro move?
- Schedule your roofing contractor to come take a look BEFORE you start demoing inside.
- Repair any minor issues ASAP. You’ll thank yourself later.
- Include your roof repair in your renovation budget. You can always trim costs elsewhere.
- Remember, your roof protects everything. Don’t neglect it.
Upgrade projects are exciting. Fresh paint colors. Fun flooring. Remodeled kitchens and bathrooms are awesome. But if your roof is in poor condition, none of it matters.
The roof is what protects all your new remodel goodies. Don’t forget about it.
Wrap Up
Planning a home renovation can be stressful but also pretty dang exciting. Don’t let a crumbling roof ruin all your fun!
Roof renovations may not sound glamorous, but they’re important. Water damage, mold growth, and structural integrity are all reasons to include your roof in the remodeling conversation.
Remember:
- Hire a pro to inspect your roof BEFORE starting work on the interior of your home.
- Catching minor issues now can save you major expenses down the road.
- Include roof repairs in your budgeted renovation costs.
- A new roof protects everything inside your home. Make sure it’s in good shape to do its job!
The better condition your roof is in. The better everything else will look!
