When to Repair a Roof and When to Replace It
Repairing a roof usually costs less and is much quicker than replacing the entire structure.
Repairing a roof usually costs less and is much quicker than replacing the entire structure. However, the roof might be too far gone for a repair to make sense, and homeowners will need to determine whether to repair the roof or if replacing it is the only viable option.
When to repair a roof
Most roofing materials last at least ten years. Still, adverse weather conditions and other circumstances can damage the material sooner. However, homeowners shouldn’t consider a replacement if the roof is only a few years old. Instead, they should repair the damaged section.
Materials like slate and clay tiles can last over 100 years. As such, it makes sense for homeowners with long-lasting roofs to repair them even if they are a few decades old. Plus, replacing roof tiles requires minimum labor, so a repair is a substantially better solution overall.
Granted, any repair only works if the damage is limited to one roof section or isn’t too extensive. However, a few shingles missing after a storm, a hole or two, and some worn-out spots should be an easy fix.
But if a major storm is coming, it might be more prudent to patch the roof instead of waiting for it to hit and deal with the damage later. In this case, scheduling an emergency inspection and repair services will help homeowners protect their roofs from a potentially disastrous outcome.
Even if the inspection shows more extensive damage, a repair can serve as a temporary solution until the danger passes.
When to replace a roof
A roof’s expected lifespan depends on the quality of the materials and the installation. However, some roofing materials can last nearly 50 years with proper maintenance.
When assessing the damage, homeowners should consider the roof’s age. If it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, it makes sense to replace it immediately. On the other hand, continually patching an old roof might be more costly and still result in a replacement.
A replacement is also necessary if the damage is extensive, regardless of the roof’s age. Severe damage usually involves water infiltration and leaks or roof detachment. In this case, replacing the roof makes more sense than wasting time and money repairing the damage, only for the underlying issues to cause more problems in the future.
Furthermore, homeowners who plan to sell their homes can benefit from replacing the roof. This project will improve the curb appeal and increase the property’s value, taking it out of the “fixer-upper” category.
Even if there’s no damage and homeowners have no intention of moving, replacing the roof can make sense under specific circumstances. These include installing new, more energy-efficient, and eco-friendly roofing materials that will lead to long-term savings.
Consult a professional
Homeowners who are unsure whether their roof needs a repair or a replacement can consult a professional roofing contractor. After a thorough inspection, these professionals will suggest the best course of action.
Nimble Restoration Services offers ten years of experience in restoration construction and roofing repair and replacement for residential and commercial structures in McKinney, Tx. Our client information service ensures our customers understand their needs and the best materials for their circumstances. We offer roof inspections and tune-ups. We believe our integrity and service are unmatched. RCAT licensed and insured. Woman-owned. Emergency services are available. Call us now at (214) 833-7517.
