Does Your Multi-Family Complex Need a New Roof?
When should you replace the roof on your multi-family complex? Should you follow a specific timetable or wait until the last minute? It is an important decision. After all, the roof that covers a multi-family condo or apartment complex performs an essential function—it protects the individual living spaces and everything in them. Understanding when it is time to replace the roof—or maybe just repair it—is part of a smart property management strategy that can significantly impact your financial outlook.
Spoiler Alert: Many roof systems don’t need replacement! Let’s learn more.
Determining When Your Roof Needs Attention
- The roof is getting old: The most obvious reason to consider replacement of your roof is that it is old. All roofs have an expected service life. However, if you’ve maintained the roof regularly and have addressed problem areas promptly, your roof may outperform its lifespan. That said, roofs can also fail prematurely for several reasons. They may not have been installed correctly, or materials may have been sub-par. It’s also possible that repeated weather events or delayed maintenance may have harmed your roof before its time. The only way to verify the shape of your roof – regardless of age – is by having it inspected by a qualified contractor. You may not need a roof replacement – learn more about roof coatings!
- You’re breaking the budget on repairs: If you are spending many thousands of dollars a year on repairs, your roof may need to be replaced. Check your maintenance and repair records over the last several years and figure the total amount you’ve spent on repairs – including on interior walls, ceilings, and personal items that had to be replaced. If you are spending too much on the upkeep of your multi-family roof, you could put that money towards an entirely new roofing system.
- You can visually spot signs of deterioration: Sometimes, individual roof components begin to deteriorate. While these components may be inexpensive to replace or repair right now, they can become catastrophic if maintenance is deferred for too long. If only a small section of your roof is having issues, there may be an alternate solution – such as utilizing roof coatings to reduce ponding, seal up breaches, or cool down sections of the roof that get overheated.
- Your community needs a facelift: With so many multi-family complexes and new construction condos being built, competition for new tenants can be fierce. If your current roof is fading or looks mismatched, it can detract from the property’s appeal. If your condo or apartment complex has a flat or low-sloped roof, consider a fresh roof coating – it is more affordable than a new roof, causes no disruption to your tenants, and will make your property stand out.
Not Every Multi-Family Roof Can Be Coated
We admit that not every roof is a good candidate for a roof coating. But if you have a flat or low-slope roof and are concerned about its state of decline, call Unicoat Roofing before you make another move.
Roof coatings can be applied without disrupting your tenants. They reflect UV rays, which helps to keep the building cooler. They seal leaks and give your roof a fresh new look. And perhaps most importantly to your bottom line – they can extend the life of your roof by a decade or more.
If you are ready to learn more – call Unicoat Roofing today.
