When your roof starts showing signs of damage, it’s hard to know whether the issue is localized to one part of your roof that needs repairs or if the issue is widespread and requires a replacement. Your roof is your first line of defense against rodents, animals, and the elements, so homeowners get very stressed when they notice issues. Fortunately, roofing work typically only takes a few days, and some roofing contractors even provide inspections within 24 hours.
In truth, the answer to this question will depend on the condition of your roof and should be answered by a qualified roofing professional after a thorough inspection, suggests Big Al’s Roofing of South Florida. During your inspection, your roofer will look for signs of wear and tear, damage, leaks, mold growth, and problems with the structural integrity of your home. If you have foundational issues, then those can be a sign of water getting into your home from your roof, and your roofer will have to find where the leak is. After speaking to a roofing professional, you can be sure whether you need to repair your roof or replace it. A roofing professional will also discuss the cost of labor and materials and how long it will take.
Here are some things to consider when deciding between a roof repair or replacement.
Also Read: Weather Protecting Roofing Materials.
Roof Repair
A roof repair may resolve minor or moderate problems with your roof and may even extend its life by nipping a problem in the bud. Rather than tearing down the entire roof, a roof repair involves only working on a small, isolated area of your roof. Depending on the type and extent of damage, your roof repair may include patching small holes or replacing damaged or missing shingles. This process may take only a few hours.
Roofing repairs are more affordable than replacements and don’t take as long. By taking care of an issue while it’s minor and manageable, you can extend the lifespan of your current roof. However, when you need to replace shingles, it’s often hard to match colors with the original roof. Plus, if the repair was done by someone who is not an experienced roofing contractor, such as the homeowners themselves, then the poor workmanship could lead to further issues. This is why you should speak to a professional roofer and have them source the materials and do the work for you.
Roof Replacement
One of the biggest considerations for homeowners when it comes to deciding whether to repair or replace the roof is the cost. A reroofing project is much more costly than a repair, but if you’re already spending money on roof repairs, then you might save more by replacing your roof with one that will be backed by a warranty and won’t give you any problems for years. Depending on your chosen material, you could enjoy a new roof for 20 years or even as long as 100 years!
Although replacing your roof is much more expensive than a repair, there are numerous benefits. First, it makes your house look newer. If you are planning on selling your home and are sprucing it up to have greater curb appeal, then a roof replacement will enhance its aesthetics. Secondly, you don’t have to worry about bad weather or rodents getting into your home. With a new roof you get years of peace of mind:
- Asphalt shingles can last 20 to 30 years. Clay shingles can last over 100 years, and concrete tile shingles can last between 30 and 50 years, but they are both heavier than other building materials.
- Metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 100 years, and some famous buildings around the world have had the same metal roof for hundreds of years. Zinc and copper roofs can last centuries and are resistant to fire, mold, and pests.
- Wood shingles and shakes last 30 years or more, but they require a lot of maintenance.
What To Expect When Getting Your Roof Repaired Or Replaced
Before you call a roofing company to come and inspect your roof, you should prepare questions for them, do your research, and look them up with the Better Business Bureau. You can also get different quotes from multiple roofing companies and go with the company that has a positive reputation, gives you honest answers, and makes you feel like your opinion is valued as a homeowner and a client.
After you select and hire a roofer and have a written contract, you should prepare your home for workers. Remove any cars, furniture, toys, and other items from your driveway, patio, and yard. Do not let small children or pets outside while workers are present. Protect your belongings in your attic and remove any antennas or satellite dishes from your roof. You should also prune your trees and cut your grass before workers arrive. These steps will make your reroofing project much smoother. Remember, these inconveniences are temporary, and soon you will be enjoying your new roof!
