Do I Need a Roof Repair or Replacement?

Has your roof sustained some damage? Are you wondering if you need to repair it or replace it?

Your roof is one of the most important features of your home, and for the rest of your home to stay safe, your roof needs to be in good condition. But after your roof sustains damage, it can be tough to figure out whether you need to repair it or replace it. Which is the right decision?

Check out this guide to learn how to decide between roof repair and replacement. 

Consider the Age 

When deciding between repairing and replacing your roof, the first thing you need to consider is its age. If your roof is more than 30 years old, it’s likely time to replace it. 

However, the lifespan of your roof depends on several different factors, with the most important factor being the material. Slate roofs, for example, can last 75 to 200 years, so replacing your roof at the 30-year mark may be too early. Wooden roofs, on the other hand, only last about 20 years, so you may find that you need to replace your roof before the 30-year mark. 

If your roof shows signs of aging and it has suffered damage from storms and leaks, then you should think about replacing it. 

Extent of Damage 

You also want to consider the extent of the damage when deciding between roof repair and replacement. Roof damage generally falls into two categories: aesthetic damage and structural damage. 

Aesthetic damage refers to roofing material that looks old and worn, as well as dark streaks or moss growing on the roof. On the other hand, structural damage refers to shingles that are cupped or curled. It also refers to:

  • Bald spots or missing granules on asphalt shingles
  • Broken or cracked asphalt, wood, or tile shingles
  • Rusted metal shingles
  • Perforated or dented tile, wood, or asphalt

It’s best to hire a roofing contractor to assess the extent of the damage and help you determine whether repair or replacement is better. You can check out this post to discover how to find the best roofing contractor. 

Leaks 

Typically, a leak here or there is nothing to worry about. But if roof leaks go untouched for too long, it can lead to serious damage. If you notice water stains running across your ceilings or down your walls, a leaky roof is the culprit. 

If you don’t take care of the leak promptly, it can lead to mold, wet insulation, damaged ceilings, and rotting framing. And, the leaks can get bigger and bigger until you have no other choice but to replace your entire roof. 

Budget 

Last but not least, you also want to consider your budget when deciding between a roof repair and replacement. The cost to repair or replace your roof will depend on your geographical location, the size of the roof, and the materials used. 

Generally speaking though, replacing an entire roof is much more expensive than repairing it. However, there’s no sense in wasting money on repair costs if you’re going to have to replace it anyway in a couple of years. A roofing contractor can help you determine which option is best for your budget. 

Roof Repair vs Replacement: Which Option is Best for You? 

Now that you’ve read this guide on roof repair vs replacement, it’s time to decide which option is best for you. Whether you decide to replace or repair your roof, you’ll need to hire a roofing contractor. Your next step is to start researching contractors in your area. 

And, be sure to check back in with our blog for more roofing tips.