When we think of home repairs and remodeling, we don't usually remember the roof. But if your roof's in bad shape, nothing else matters. The value of your home is severely influenced by a roof that needs fixing.

What You Can't See Can Hurt Your Roof

The problem with roofs is that it's not easy to know when it's time to repair or replace it. By the time you do know, it's usually too late, and you're stuck with big problems. I have encountered a few instances while helping clients sell their home where the faulty roofs created some unwanted troubles. Make it a habit each fall and spring (perhaps when you set your clocks?) to do a roof check. Look for the following:

• Your shingles are missing, curling, cupping, broken or cracked.
• There's leakage in your attic after a storm, or after ice build-up.
• Exterior or interior paint begins blistering or peeling.
• There are stains on your interior ceilings and walls.
• You notice dark, dirty-looking areas on the roof.
• Your energy costs go up drastically, indicating that heat is escaping through your roof.
• Pooling or ponds of water won't drain from your flat roof, indicating poor drainage or low areas.

Inspect the underside of your roof from the attic with a flashlight. A couple of pinholes are normal, and the shingles will usually swell the holes shut when the roof is wet. But you should take note of holes that look bigger.

When in Doubt, Seek Professional Help

If you're not sure what you're looking for, contact an inspector. Never go on your roof to inspect or repair it - the risk isn't worth the money you'd save.

Looking for a roofer when you're desperate for one can lead to hasty, unwise decisions. Be sure to shop around first, and select a licensed, insured roofer who guarantees all work. Being proactive about roof repairs or replacements now can save you lots of stress later.

Roofers in Las Cruces:

G. Bishop Roofing
www.gbishoproofing.com/

Professional Roof Repair by Cottonwood Construction
www.roofrepairlascruces.com/

Progreen Superior Coatings & Roofing
www.progreenlc.com/

C D General Contractors
www.cdgeneralnm.com/

Do you have any personal experience with roof problems? If so and you'd like to share, leave your story in a comment below.

If you’re interested in more ways you can avoid big problems like a faulty roof, we’ve provided you with a free seller’s guide. Even if you aren’t selling your home, this guide is helpful to you because it can give you ideas you possibly haven’t thought of yet on how to improve your home and your life.

 To access your very own free seller’s guide, visit and follow the directions at:

http://www.homesforsaleinlascruces.com/login.php?reffer=http://www.sellingahomeinlascruces.com/sellers_guide_book.php