It is often said that you can’t go wrong investing in real estate. It is a scarce resource with guaranteed demand, making it a no-brainer for investors willing to hang in there through occasional ebbs and flows in the market.
However, while purchasing property is almost always a sound decision given a long-term time frame, ROI can be severely impacted by maintenance costs. If you continually have to repair and replace areas of the home, rents will be offset and resale value may be impacted.
Therefore, it is crucial to build with durable materials that will reduce ongoing maintenance requirements. Keep reading as we dig deep into 5 durable materials every property investor should know about.
Engineered Siding Options
Classic siding materials such as wood and brick are simply too high maintenance for modern homeowners. Wood planks must be painted and masonry must be sealed at least every other year for these traditional cladding options to retain their aesthetics and protective properties.
To help lower the maintenance requirements, engineered materials, such as steel log or fiber cement siding, make a wonderful alternative. They can be manufactured in a wide range of colors and designs to provide a natural wood-look, brick, or any other style of appearance.
They do not need to be painted and provide Class-A fire resistance, offering the ultimate in low maintenance protection. These engineered cladding materials are rated to last 50+ years but will very likely outlast the life of the property itself.
Aluminum Windows
Weak window-to-wall transitions are one of the areas of a home most vulnerable to air and moisture transfer. Traditional wood-frame windows absorb moisture, swell, and warp from UV exposure over time, making degradation in this area inevitable.
As a result, aluminum window frames have become the preferred option in new construction homes. They are completely resistant to moisture and UV damage without requiring ongoing waterproofing, making them an ideal choice for low maintenance windows.
Composite Roofing
No area of the home is exposed to the elements quite like the roof. It is the first line of defense against wind, precipitation, and projectile impact. When the roof begins to break down, it can create a host of structural and aesthetic issues for the home. Therefore, it is crucial to source durable roofing products well-suited to stand the test of time.
In the era of climate change, this means looking into fire resistant roofing choices. In addition to the aforementioned forces of nature, wildfires are popping up across the country with greater frequency and severity. It is causing many insurance providers to hesitate on renewing policies in particularly fire-prone areas.
There are several options for creating a fire-resistant roof. Metal, slate, and concrete tiles will provide Class-A ratings and a stately appearance. However, for investors wanting a little more aesthetic versatility for their properties, composite roofing shingles are gaining traction.
Fabricated from a combination of asphalt, fiberglass, and engineered polymers, composite shingles can be manufactured in a wide range of colors to suit any exterior design theme, all while providing the highest fire, impact, UV, and moisture protection on the market.
Ipe Decking
Modern properties are not complete without functional exterior space. It is crucial to provide residents the opportunity to step outside and enjoy a breath of fresh air and change of scenery in an increasingly remote world.
One of the best ways to conveniently add external space is via a deck addition. Decks are a great venue for grilling, enjoying a cup of coffee, or simply basking in the sun.
With that said, too many decks are severely underutilized, often because the deck falls into a state of disrepair. Splintered rails, wobbly steps, and damaged boards are just a few of the dangerous and unsightly conditions that turn residents away.
Avoid the hassle of perpetual deck maintenance by choosing ipe wood decking over traditional cedar boards. Ipe is a one-of-a-kind Brazilian hardwood. It maintains the rich wood appearance that deck lovers crave but functions more closely to steel than wood in application. Naturally resistant to rot, decay, insects, and fire, it is one of the premier choices for building rustic decks meant to last.
Vinyl Fencing
Fencing is an often overlooked component of a property.
It shouldn’t be.
It plays a critical role in defining the perimeter for a clean, finished aspect and keeping the property safe from animals and loiterers.
Like other home materials, traditional fencing options require quite a bit of attention. Wood split rails and picket fences need to be painted or stained regularly, while metal posts can corrode over time.
A better option for property owners wanting a lower maintenance fence is vinyl with the accompanying fence gates. This synthetic product is completely moisture resistant, making it a great option for holding up in the face of precipitation, sprinklers, and moist grass clippings. Vinyl is a great choice for stylishly defining boundaries and providing a secure entry place into the property.
Look for Durable Materials to Help Boost Your ROI on Property Investments
Although real estate is an overwhelmingly sound investment, ROI will be impacted by ongoing maintenance costs. From engineered siding to vinyl fencing, consider any of the materials listed above to create homes that are built to last.
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