The roof replacement vs. repair question is a debate homeowners often contend with at some point in their life. When you notice roof damage such as leakage or missing shingles, it can be challenging to know whether to repair or replace it.
Often, the answer depends on the age of your roof, its current condition, and your budget. If the roof is relatively new and shows minor wear, it may only require repair work. However, if the damage is widespread and your roof is near the end of its life, a roof replacement is the best option.
Unfortunately, sometimes the correct decision is not as straightforward. Hence, you need a trusted roofing contractor in New York’s Capital Region or Southern Vermont to inspect your roof and help you decide. If you are facing the roof replacement vs. repair dilemma and are mulling the options, consider the following four factors.
1. The Age of the Roof
If your roof shows signs of aging and has leaks, extensive storm damage, or has suffered several problems over the years, it’s a good idea to replace it. This will help ensure any hidden damage is found and fixed.
If you are unsure of the age of your roof, a local roofing contractor can inspect it and determine how much life it has left. For example, three-tab shingles last for 15 to 20 years, while higher quality architectural ones could last for 40 years. Other roofing materials could last even longer.
Replacing an older, damaged roof near its expiration date is worth the investment whether you plan to move soon or stay in your home for several decades.
2. Ability Matching Shingle Color
It is relatively easy to replace missing, torn, or damaged shingles due to wind damage, fallen limbs, or other natural factors. The downside of replacing missing shingles is they may not match. If you have some spare shingles from the current roof job or your roof is relatively new, a repair could be easier.
What’s more, even if you have shingles from your last installation, they may still not match the ones on your roof due to UV rays fading the color and general aging.
Alternatively, one section of your roof could be replaced instead of the full roof, if the damage is limited to one section instead of over the whole roof.
3. How Long You Plan to Stay in Your Home
If you plan to sell your home soon and the roof looks old or has extensive damage, a replacement is advisable. Installing a new roof improves its curb appeal and becomes a selling point for your home. Otherwise, you may have a hard time selling. However, if you have no plans of selling your home, you can get by with repairs and regular inspection and maintenance.
4. The Extent of Roof Damage
By the time you are having a roof replacement vs. repair debate, your roof has likely either suffered physical damage or has deteriorated in appearance. Working with a trusted roofer can help you understand the extent of damage and make the right choice for your home.
Signs of roof damage fall into two categories:
- Aesthetic damage where the roofing material looks old, worn, or is infested with moss and algae.
- Structural damage such as:
- Curled or cupped edges on wood or asphalt shingles
- Missing granules and bald spots on shingles
- Cracked or broken asphalt, wood, or tile shingles
- Rusted metal panels or shingles
- Dented or perforated asphalt, wood, tile, and metal roofing
Roof repairs are warranted if they remedy damages covering 30% or less of your roof. Otherwise, a replacement is most likely the best option. Additionally, sometimes mere repair work will not cut it; for example, when a tree falls straight on your home or if leaks are present everywhere.
What’s Ideal for You?
An inspection from a trusted roofing contractor is the best way to make an informed decision between replacing and repairing your roof. Pinnacle Roofing Inc. is a premier roofer in New York’s Capital Region and the Southern Vermont area. We understand your reservations about roofing contractors and aim to change that perception with exceptional roofing knowledge and experience and dedicated service delivery. Contact us today, and let’s discuss your next project.