Is your roof showing some indications of damage? Are you wondering whether to repair or replace? When your roof is damaged, it can be challenging to know whether it requires repair or replacement.
An experienced roofing contractor can help you determine your roof needs depending on the extent of the damage. However, below are essential things to consider when deciding between roof replacement and repair:
1. How Old Your Roof Is
Do you know how old your roof is? If you know when the roof was installed, you will know when to replace it, depending on the type of roofing materials.
If your roof is old and has noticeable signs of leaking and storm damage, you should consider a replacement instead of repairing it. Replacing an old, worn-out roof is worth the investment. Repairing such a roof could lead to repeated repairs, which could be quite costly.
2. Roof Leaks
This is one of the most common reasons why property owners contact roof experts. A leaking roof can be quite unbearable and irritating. That’s because it is challenging to find the source of a roof leak.
If your roof is leaking, you may notice water running down the ceiling or the walls, which can also cause water damage. Regardless of where the leak is originating from, it’s advisable to solve the problem as soon as possible. A small leak may result in other bigger issues such as:
- Roof sheathing and rotting framing
- Damaged ceilings
- Mold problems
- Destroyed or wet insulation
Always keep an eye out for leaks and contact a roofing contractor as soon as possible. Small leaks could warrant roof repairs. However, if the leak has caused extensive water damage, the contractor may advise a replacement instead of restorations.
3. The Extent of Damage
If you’re torn between roof repair and replacement, then your roof is likely looking worn out and has other signs of damage. Scheduling a roof inspection could help you know the extent of the damage. Armed with the correct information, you can make a more informed decision based on your roofing needs and budget.
Different types of roofs will show varying signs of damage. However, below are the most common types of aesthetic and structural roof damage for all types of roofs:
- Perforated, punctured, and dented tiles, asphalt, metal, and wooden roofing components
- Broken or cracked wood, tile, or asphalt shingles
- Bald spots on asphalt shingles and missing granules
- Cupped or bent edges on wood or asphalt shingles
- Old-looking and worn-out roofing materials
- Dark streaks, algae, or mold growing on the surface and between the roofing materials
Depending on the extent of the damage, you may notice some or all of the above signs. Badly-damaged roofs may require replacement, while minor damages only need repairs.
4. Your Geographic Area
Is your area frequented by tornadoes, hurricanes, and hail storms? If so, always remember to replace damaged parts as soon as the storm is over. This will ensure your roof doesn’t develop future problems such as leaks.
Falling debris and hail could lead to extensive roof damage that may impact its appearance and long-term performance.
5. The Roof Replacement Cost
One of the most significant considerations that sway homeowners’ decisions is the cost of reroofing when it comes to roofing repair or replacement. Generally, residential roof repairs are often cheaper than replacement. However, constantly paying for repeated repairs could accumulate the repair expenses and exceed the replacement cost.
To make an informed decision, contact a roofing company. Their experienced roofing contractors will advise you on how to go about your roof damage. They conduct a roof inspection and diagnose potential future damages that may occur even after repairs.
Roofing contractors may also offer you financing options to help get the burden off. While a complete roof replacement may be costly, successive repairs could cost even more. Reroofing will give you peace of mind as it will protect your household from the weather elements.
When Should You Get a Roof Repair?
Roof repairs are used to address immediate active issues on your roof. A roofing contractor will identify the source of the problem and repair it to maintain your roof system in a functional capacity.
So when should you get a roof repair? Below are two circumstances when your roof requires repair instead of replacement:
The Roof Has Minor Damage
If the damage is not extensive and only affects a small area, a repair is the way to go. You can easily replace the few torn and damaged parts. However, replacing other roofing materials, such as metal panels, may be more complicated.
A Moderately Damaged Roof
If the damage is more severe but only confined to one area or side of the roof, you should consider partial reroofing. This solution is likely to cost less than replacing the whole roof.
However, the disadvantage of partial reroofing is poor aesthetics. The existing roofing materials may not completely match the newly installed ones.
Roofing materials often fade with time due to exposure to weather elements. This may result in the newly installed materials standing out from the rest of the roof.
Why Should You Get a New Roof?
Installing a new roof is costly. However, it may save you hundreds of dollars down the road, as you will avoid the costs of additional damage and multiple preventable repairs. Installing a new roof also has its perks, which include:
- Increased energy efficiency
- New roofs add to your home’s aesthetics and curb appearance
- It gives you peace of mind knowing that your household is protected from weather elements
- New roofing systems are designed to resist environmental factors that lead to corrosion and damage
Roofing replacements are the last result when repairs are no longer getting the job done. However, property owners should also consider other factors before resulting in replacement. These factors may include the extent of the damage and the estimated long-term repair costs.
Are You Wondering Whether To Repair or Replace?
Are you still wondering whether you should repair or replace your roof? While this can be quite a difficult choice to make alone, our contractors will walk with you through the journey.
Mid-State Construction & Roofing, Inc. is a Midwestern roof repair company focusing on commercial and residential roof installation and replacements. We offer flat roof repair service, metal roof retrofit, as well as roof maintenance, and replacement.
Contact us today and schedule a free roof inspection near Ramsey, IL.