A roof is an integral part of both commercial and residential buildings and needs to be in good condition to operate optimally. Faulty roofs can cause leaks, mold, mildew, pest infestations, and high energy bills. The good thing is that roofs have a long lifespan but are prone to the usual wear and tear due to harsh weather conditions. This leaves homeowners with a dilemma about what to do when these damages occur.
The terms ‘roof repair’ and ‘roof replacement’ can be mistakenly used interchangeably, yet they mean completely different things. While repair is limited, taking care of only the affected part of a roof, replacement means getting an entirely new roof and getting rid of the old damaged one. It can be challenging to tell if you need to replace a roof or repair it if you are not an expert.
For example, minor leaks could mean bigger structural issues. Read on and learn the factors to consider before you decide whether to repair or replace your roof after you discover damage:
Condition of the Roof
It is crucial to assess the roof’s condition to determine the extent of damage and for guidance on the appropriate action to take. The practical solution is roof repair if it is concentrated on a specific part of the roof. Issues such as leaks, damaged roofing material, or minor structural problems can be fixed with a repair. However, if the damage is widespread, you may be forced to opt for a comprehensive roof replacement. Here are some of the signs of wear and tear you’ll likely observe on your roof covering to necessitate a roof repair or replacement:
- Missing granules/broken roof tile
- Curling along the edges
- Missing corners or cracks
- Crumbly and dry texture
- Lifting on the edges
If you notice one or all of these signs, consult an experienced roofer for guidance on the appropriate measures to mitigate the damage.
Age of the Roof
Roofs have an expected lifespan of 15-20 years on average, depending on the roofing material. If yours starts having problems when it’s a few years old, you may consider getting the damaged sections repaired to extend the roof’s lifespan. As roofs age, they wear and tear due to harsh weather conditions, exposing them to further damage. Repairs act as temporary solutions that can contain the damage even without necessarily extending the original lifespan. Older roofs tend to have more widespread damages, necessitating a full replacement to avoid constant repairs.
Your Budget
Evaluating your budget is crucial when deciding which alternative is best for your roof. Explore the costs of a repair and a replacement and choose the option that best suits you. Repairs are normally less expensive but may be pricier depending on the cost of labor and the extent of the repair needed. Sometimes, you may end up repairing the same area over and over again, making you spend more than getting a new roof altogether.
Roof replacement may be an expensive approach, however, it allows roofers to fully inspect your roof structure, addressing all underlying conditions to reset the roof’s lifespan.
The Roof Type
The type of roofing on your structure largely influences your decision. The cost of removing a roof varies depending on the roofing material and the time taken to install it. Roofs can be tile, shingles, sloped or flat, and high or low-pitched.
Urgency
If you notice damage to your roof when a major storm is coming, you may need more time to schedule and plan for a roof replacement. It is safer to repair your roof to protect it from further damage. Waiting for the storm to pass to repair the damage can be risky, as it may cost you more than containing the damage with a temporary repair. Plus, the storm may cause water damage, which has a greater impact even on the home’s interior, not just the roof being replaced.
Advantages of Roof Replacement
Roof replacement can be a good financial investment in the long haul, and here is how:
- Reduced maintenance: New roofs provide optimal service without needing constant maintenance, saving you money and time. Regular repairs can be an extra expense over time.
- Energy efficiency: To improve energy efficiency in the house, you can replace your old roofing material with a contemporary roof made with technological advancements such as solar tiles and recycled shingles. Such roofs contain reflective coatings for enhanced insulation, lowering energy bills and making the newly installed roof a cost-effective option over time.
- Durability: A new roof is durable as it restarts its lifespan, reducing the need for constant repair costs.
Advantages of Roof Repair
Roof repair is an ideal home restoration option to revamp the look of your structure and prolong its lifespan. Here are some of the benefits you’ll reap for opting for a roof repair:
- Cost-effectiveness: Repairs are cost-effective compared to replacing the entire roof. This makes them a safe choice for homeowners on a limited budget.
- Safety: A damaged roofing structure poses a threat to your loved ones. Repairing it will rejuvenate it, allowing it to withstand harsh weather conditions and keep your family safe.
- Sustainability: Roof repair is environmentally friendly since you recycle the existing roof. The installation process of a new roof leaves waste that gets disposed of in landfills, polluting the environment.
Repair or Replace? Make the Smart Choice for Your Roof
Roof repair and replacement are huge home improvement projects that homeowners need to give enough thought to. Your chosen roof restoration technique is determined by various factors, from your estimated budget to the type of roof and the urgency of fixing the damage. It is uneconomical and time-consuming to tear down the entire roof structure if a few repairs could restore your roof.
ABC Roofing is a state-certified roofing company with a reputable team ready to guide you on the appropriate option for your roof. Contact us today for all your roofing needs, whether you want to replace a roof, repair, or general inspection to maintain your home’s integrity.
