Menu Close

Repair or Replace Roof: When To Know It’s Time

A roof is one of the most exposed areas in your home to weather elements like hail, wind, snow, and heavy rain. Constant repair and maintenance are necessary to prevent a small problem from escalating into a big and expensive issue. But sometimes, your roof may not need a repair but a replacement.

Don’t waste your time and money repairing a roof that needs replacement. But how do you know whether you need to repair or replace roof? Here are the signs to look out for.

Signs to Repair the Roof

Since roof materials are designed to last for several decades, you should not rush to replace them at the slightest sign of a problem. Sometimes a simple DIY repair work can solve a problem. Here are some signs that you need to repair your roof.

Minor Roof Damage

If just a small portion of your roof shows signs of damage, you need to repair that portion or replace a few shingles. You can get the replacing materials from the hardware near you and do the replacement yourself. Such minor damages mostly include missing, torn, or damaged asphalt shingles.

For complex roofing materials such as roof panels, you need to pick the right contractor to do the job. Your contractor may also know how to order shingles that match the existing roof color to avoid aesthetic problems after the repair.

Partial Roof Damage

You don’t have to bring down the entire roof just because a section of it is showing some signs of damage. A partial reroofing may be a better and more cost-effective approach. But you should be careful not to interfere with the aesthetics because of the mismatching colors.

Patching the Damaged Roof

Patching the roof can also work in instances where some roof sections seem to deteriorate faster than other areas. You can put a new roof over the existing one and avoid the costs that come with bringing down the old roof. Before you go this route, make sure you consult a roofing expert to understand if the patching method can work.

Signs You Need to Replace Roof

Do I need a new roof?

There are times when your roof may be too damaged or too old to withstand any more repair work. But how do you know if it’s time to bring down the entire roof and put up a new one? Here are the signs to look for.

Roof Has Water and Moisture Damage Signs

Water and moisture are the biggest enemies of your home that can cause huge damages. Once water finds its way into your roof shingles, it can penetrate further into the house. When this happens, you risk various health problems and property damage.

A leaking roof is a clear sign that you need to replace it immediately before it causes more serious problems. You may identify signs of a leaking roof through mold, peeling paint, and discolorations on the ceiling or walls. Don’t attempt to patch the leaking area, as that puts you at risk of more extensive water damage in case of a heavy downpour.

Replace an Old Roof

There’s nothing you can do to save your roof once it reaches the end of its lifespan. Old age is a good indication that you need to carry out a replacement as soon as possible. But how do you know if your roof is old enough to warrant a replacement?

The age of your roof depends on the materials used. Tile, slate, or copper roofs should serve you up to 50 years. Wood shakes last 30 years, cement singles 25 years, and roofs made from asphalt shingle/ composite can go up to 20 years.

It’s essential to know how long your roof should last so you prepare yourself for replacement. Sometimes, strong weather elements such as hail, snow, or hurricane can cut short the life of your roof. Consult with roofing experts to know when it’s the right time to replace an old or deteriorating roof.

Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace Roof?

Sometimes, a roof repair may look cheap but can be expensive in the long run. Generally, roof repairs are supposed to cost less than replacement, and that’s why many homeowners go that route. But if you have to do many repairs in a few years, the total cost may be more than a replacement cost.

Talk to your roofing contractor to give you estimates of both repair and replacement so you can weigh your options. A roof replacement might look expensive upfront but will save you a lot of trouble and costs associated with successive repairs. Having a new roof over your head offers you complete peace of mind as you don’t have to worry about repair needs.

Your Geographical Area

If you live in an area prone to extreme weather elements, your roof might get severely damaged. Hurricanes, hail storms, and tornadoes can cause extensive roof damage that only leaves you with the option to replace it. You need to replace missing shingles and other materials immediately after weather damage to protect your property.

Sometimes strong winds and falling objects may also interfere with the strength of your roof. Your roof may not perform well or even maintain its appearance after such damages. A replacement is the only viable option you have in such cases.

Is It Time to Repair or Replace Roof?

Whether you feel like your roof is not on its optimal performance or the appearance is not the same, you should start considering a replacement or a repair. The signs mentioned above will tell you whether it’s time to repair or replace roof. To be completely sure, consult roofing contractors in your area to help you make an informed decision.

Did you learn something new today? Continue browsing this site for more vital tips.