Should I Repair or Replace My Roof?

Patching Damaged Areas:

Understandably, many homeowners wonder if they can patch a damaged or deteriorating section of roof rather than replace the entire thing. They may even opt to roof over the existing shingles instead of tearing off the old roof.

Patching can work, but it poses all of the same issues — and then some — as replacing a few shingles.

Just as you would when deciding if it’s okay to simply replace shingles, it’s important to consult with a home roofing professional if you’re considering patching your roof. A home roofing pro will perform a thorough inspection to determine if a patch will extend your roof’s lifespan without leading to future damage.

A home roofing expert will examine both the exterior of your roof, as well as the boards in your attic, which will generally show if moisture has made its way through the decking and into your home.

On the outside, signs of a more serious problem include shingles that are curling at the edges or starting to buckle. Another bad sign is the presence of granules — the small, pebble-like pieces that coat the outside of the shingle — in your gutters or on the ground.

Furthermore, a sagging roof is a sure sign of a more serious problem. If you notice any sagging, don’t wait to call a roofing contractor. You must replace the entire roof as quickly as possible.

Even if it’s possible to patch your roof, the outcome might not be aesthetically pleasing. In the case of a patch, the damaged area is usually much larger than a spot in need of a few shingles, which generally makes it more difficult to blend the repaired section in with the existing roof.

Replacing the Roof:

So how do you know when it’s time for a whole new roof design? The answer depends on a variety of factors, which you should consider any time you’re confronted with a roofing repair vs. replace dilemma.

• Signs of Moisture or Water Damage – Water is a powerful force — just look at the Grand Canyon for evidence of its persistent nature. Once it seeps beneath your roof’s shingles, it can quickly find its way inside, where it can cause serious damage and even health problems. If you see signs of moisture inside your home, including brown spots on the ceiling, peeling paint or mold, you should probably opt to replace your entire roof rather than attempt a patch or repair.
• A Recent Disaster – If your neighborhood was recently hit with a hurricane, tornado, or especially violent storm, the damage may be extensive enough to require a total roof replacement. Even a single harsh winter can push an ailing roof into a state of emergency.
• Age – Is your roof five years old and leaking? In this case, the problem is more likely related to the quality of the installation or even a defect in the materials rather than normal wear and tear. On the other hand, a 20-year-old roof with a couple problem areas is probably near the end of its lifespan and due to be replaced.
• Materials – You should also consider the type of roofing materials you have. For example, an 80-year-old slate roof might have a few more decades of life ahead of it, whereas a metal roof in its eighth decade is well past its prime. Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material due to their affordability and aesthetic appeal, and the latest generation of premium asphalt shingles are made to last up to 50 years with proper maintenance.

When it’s time to replace your roof, consult with a home roofing expert. Also keep in mind that price shouldn’t be the only factor that influences your choice of roofing contractor. You wouldn’t choose a “discount” heart surgeon. Likewise, you shouldn’t choose a roofing installation company based solely on a cheap price. By investing in a quality product and expert installation now, you can rest easy knowing your home is protected for the long haul.