top of page

ROOF REPAIR VS ROOF REPLACEMENT GUIDE

​

When your roof shows signs of damage, it can sometimes be difficult to know whether a roof repair is entirely sufficient or if a roof replacement is more appropriate. A trusted roofing contractor can help you decide which option is best for your home.

 

4 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN DECIDING BETWEEN REPAIRING OR REPLACING YOUR ROOF

Here are some things to consider when deciding between a roof replacement and a roof repair.

​

 

1. AGE OF ROOF

Do you know when your current roof was installed? Depending on the type of roofing material used, its age may be a good indication of when to replace a roof.

If your roof is showing signs of aging and/or has suffered storm damageleaks, or other problems, it may be a good idea to consider replacing it. Replacing an older, damaged or failing roof, rather than repeatedly paying for roof repairs, can be worth the investment whether you intend to stay in your home for several decades or plan to sell soon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. ROOF LEAKS

leaky roof is one of the most common reasons homeowners need roof repairs or a roof replacement. If you’ve seen water stains inside your home that run across ceilings or down your walls, the cause could be a leaky roof. Finding the source of the roof leak can often be tricky, but a certified roofing contractor can help with the process.

Regardless of the source of your leak, it’s important to solve a leaky roof problem sooner rather than later — something that begins as a small leak can eventually lead to bigger problems, such as:

  • Mold

  • Rotting framing and roof sheathing

  • Damaged ceilings, and

  • Wet or destroyed insulation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. THE EXTENT OF ROOF DAMAGE

If you’re deciding between a roof repair or roof replacement, then it’s likely your roof has either deteriorated in appearance and/or has suffered other physical damage. Working with a trusted roofing contractor can help you better understand the extent of any roof damage you may have so you can make the right decision for your home and budget.

Signs of roof damage will differ slightly between various types of roofing material but generally fall into two main categories: aesthetic damage and structural damage.

Aesthetic damage:

  • Roofing material looks old and worn

  • Moss, dark streaks or algae is growing on or in between the roofing materials

Structural damage:

  • Curled or cupped edges on asphalt or wood shingles

  • Missing granules and bald spots on asphalt shingles

  • Cracked or broken asphalt, tile or wood shingles

  • Dented or perforated asphalt, tile, wood or metal roofing components

  • Rusted metal shingles or panels

​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. ROOF REPLACEMENT COST

Of course, the cost of getting a new roof is one of the biggest considerations for homeowners when it comes to a reroof vs. repair.

In general, roofing repairs are going to cost less than a complete reroof project; however, if you’re paying for a slew of repairs over the course of a few years, they might eventually exceed the cost of an entire roof replacement.

Your roofing contractor can provide estimates to help you weigh the options of what might be the most budget-conscious solution without putting your home at risk from a failing roof, and may offer roof financing options.

While a complete roof replacement might be more expensive up-front, it does mean you won’t have to pay for successive repairs, especially if there are multiple trouble spots on your roof’s surface. Plus, a new roof can offer peace of mind, knowing that what you value most under your roof is protected from the elements.

 

 

 

WHEN TO GET A ROOF REPAIR​

Minor Damage

If you need to repair a small portion of your roof or replace a couple of shingles in an isolated area with minor wind damage, then replacing damaged material in that section can be relatively simple and inexpensive.

Damaged, torn, or missing asphalt shingles, for example, can usually be replaced with new ones fairly easily. Other roofing materials may be more complex or expensive to replace individually, such as metal panels.

One downside to this approach is in trying to match roofing materials so that the repaired area blends in with the rest of the roof. For example, if you have spare shingles leftover from a previous reroofing job, the colors may be close but may not match exactly due to exposure.

Another option is to ask your roofing contractor to order shingles that correspond to the existing color as much as possible.

 

Moderate Damage

 

If the damage to your roof is more significant but confined to one side or area of your roof, partial reroofing may be an option, and it’s likely to cost less than a complete reroofing project.

Again, one downside to a partial reroofing project is aesthetics. It may be harder to match the color of the new roofing materials with the existing ones. Over time, roofing material can fade due to exposure to the elements. As a result, the newly reroofed portion may stand out from the rest of the roof.

 

 

WHEN TO GET A NEW ROOF

 

While generally more expensive upfront, a new roof may save money in the long run by avoiding the added-up costs of multiple repairs or additional damage.

Additionally, a new roof offers the following perks:

  • Aesthetics and curb appeal: Roofs typically make up a large portion of your home’s outward appearance. Not only does a new roof look attractive, but it also gives you the opportunity to choose a new color or style of shingle, such as IKO CAMBRIDGE, DYNASTY.

  • Increased energy efficiency: Today’s roofing materials have improved greatly in regard to keeping out the elements and reflecting sunlight.

  • Peace of mind: Knowing that the people and things you value most are protected from the elements while under your roof helps lessen stress during heavy rains and high winds.

​

Digital_Blog_RoofRepair_DS.jpg

THE HIDDEN RISKS OF NEGLECTING YOUR ROOF REPLACEMENT

​

Understanding the Risks of Neglecting Your Roof Replacement

Homeownership brings its share of responsibilities and ignoring minor problems can sometimes lead to unfortunate complications. Nowhere is this more evident than in a delayed roof replacement. If you’ve identified that your roof is in bad shape or has recently been damaged, it’s crucial to make sure your roof is repaired or replaced to help avoid further damage to your home.

 

Protecting Your Home

 

For most people, their home is the greatest investment they’ll make during their lifetime, representing a sizable portion of their savings. A home is a private sanctuary, where you and your family can rest, recharge and store precious possessions. Helping to protect that sanctuary starts on the rooftop.

There are many reasons you might be thinking of delaying your roofing project. The most notable being cost-related. A new roof can be a big financial commitment, but most professional roofing contractors offer financing which helps break the cost down into more manageable payments. Another reason you might consider putting off a new roof is scheduling. You might think it’s hard to commit to a large roofing project if your schedule is jam-packed. However, most people are surprised at how quickly an actual roof can be replaced once the roofing crew gets started. Most roofs can be replaced in 1-2 days—some people go to work with an old roof and come home to a new one. So, the time commitment is not necessarily what you think it might be.

Regardless of the list of reasons that seem reasonable-enough to put off the project- the truth is, a bad roof could be a gateway toother issues, jeopardizing your home’s infrastructure resulting in costly repairs. Minor issues can quickly blossom to major problems if not addressed.

 

The Risks of Neglecting Your Roof Replacement

 

To help protect your home, you need its outer defenses, including windows, walls and the roof. Unfortunately, the roof’s placement makes it all too easy to be overlooked. And, even if you do notice a small leak — you may decide that replacing your roof can wait. 

However, a roof that has lost its ability to protect your home could risk not only your savings but your valued possessions as well as your home’s integrity and safety.

 

Widespread Costly Damage

 

Water takes the path of least resistance and may seep through into your attic and interior walls before it’s detected, resulting in mold and mildew growth. And if that’s not enough, replacing rotted wood and framework throughout the home can be a time-consuming and very expensive process.

Most homeowner insurance policies are very specific regarding roof damage provisions. In most cases, water damage due to roof neglect is not a covered item.

 

 

 

 

Hidden Safety Hazards for You and Your Family

 

Besides the obvious cosmetic damage, a leaking roof also brings hidden risks. Depending on conditions, mold and mildew can begin growing on damp surfaces within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure.  Decay in your home’s structural components can begin to develop, making floors and stairs unsafe.

Another risk in homes with leaking roofs is electrical hazards. If water comes in contact with exposed wiring or seeps into a junction box, it can short circuits and potentially cause fires.

 

 

 

 

Decreased Property Values

Roof problems identified during a home inspection or walk-through could reduce your chances of receiving the asking price. Buyers might request you replace the roof before selling or offer a lower bid.

 

 

 

 

Replacing Your Possessions

Most people don’t consider the potential damage to wallpaper, carpeting or flooring or furniture if a roof leak is ignored to the point of major water intrusion, not to mention any irreplaceable heirloom vintage items or photographs stored in the attic. If this happens, you could spend more time interacting with other contractors or hard-earned money replacing your items.

 

Cost Increases

 

Unfortunately, sometimes you need to put off a project to save money to complete it. The irony is that with most major projects, like reroofing, the longer you wait, the more potential material cost increases you can experience. It’s just not fair. But most professional roofing contractors can offer a wide variety of financing options that will help you do the work now and pay over time.

 

The Benefits of Timely Roof Replacement

Roof damage prevention strategies, like annual inspections, regular maintenance and roof replacement, if necessary, offer several advantages:

 

Provide Peace of Mind

 

A watertight roof provides peace of mind that your home, its contents, and your family are protected. Nothing beats peace of mind for a new roof.

 

Enhanced Energy efficiency

 

A sealed, yet well-ventilated, roofing system helps prevent heat and moisture buildup in attic spaces, so your home’s HVAC system can run efficiently. Insulation, in the correct amount, can make your living spaces comfortable by keeping heated and cooled air where it belongs.

If you’ve determined you need a new roof, you should face the fact that it won’t get better with time—it will only get worse. By acting promptly, you can help prevent the disadvantages associated with avoiding your re-roof. Consult with a professional roofing contractor to confirm the health of your roof and remedy any roofing damage concerns right away.

Moldsubframe_1200px.jpg
DamagedWoodfloor_1200px.jpg
Women_letter_1200px.jpg
bottom of page