My Roof and Windows Look Fine, Why Should I Replace Them?

If you’ve been following our Facebook page, we just posted two new images to hopefully break any wrong perceptions of roof and window replacement.

It doesn’t require your roof to look like a meteorite hit it to qualify for a new roof.

Likewise, your window doesn’t have to be shattered to have it replaced.

As someone who is not in the roofing industry, you may wonder why these seemingly insignificant things should qualify for brand new windows or a new roof.

To uncover these questions, let’s re-visit the purpose of home insurance.

Homeowners pay a premium so that in the event of a storm that their home is restored to pre-storm conditions. So in the first instance of a few dings around the window frame, those dings were not there BEFORE the storm.

So you might be wondering now, “But those dings are hardly noticeable and don’t affect the way the window functions, why should I get them replaced?”

We want to acknowledge that you’re absolutely right. Oftentimes hail damage to window frame is entirely cosmetic and doesn’t diminish the functionality.

The issue, though, is when it’s time to sell your home.

A home inspector will find this damage and point it out. You may have missed the window to get it approved by your insurance carrier and will either pay to replace it out of pocket or reduce the price of your home due to the damage.

Much like hail damage to a car, those dings are purely cosmetic and will not affect the way the car functions. However, when it comes time to sell your car, having that damage with significantly reduce the amount you could make.

But What About Shingles?

Unlike window frames with small dings, shingles are more susceptible to damage. Why? Simply because they’re the first line of defense that protects your home from the sun, water, storms, etc.

It would help to understand the composition of shingles and the useful life of each model. The broad understanding is that most asphalt shingles are comprised of layers of fiberglass weave. Basically, layers of asphalt and rubber.

Each of these layers make up the integrity of the shingle.

The shingle is perfectly functioning when there is no damage, however, when hail pummels your shingles then it becomes like a “bruised apple”. When this happens, the integrity of the shingle is now compromised.

The damaged shingle will deteriorate faster than an undamaged shingle and therefore it’s useful life is shortened significantly.

This is why we account for those seemingly small spots of hail damage on your shingles when assessing your roofing. It varies by insurance carriers what is considered a “totaled” roof. However, we can usually tell within moments of climbing on your roof.

Summary

We hope this helps explain why it makes sense to replace damaged windows or shingles even if they appear “fine”. Make sure you choose a reputable and experienced roofing contractor to inspect your home.

Even if you suspect some hail damage, we can tell you if it warrants a claim. Call Mutual Roofing if you’d like a FREE Inspection at (402) 889-3381 or fill out our contact form.