Roofs do not last forever. At some point, you will begin to find signs that the roof currently keeping your home safe from the elements is no longer doing a sufficient job. But when that times come, should you have it fix or start over altogether? Here are 7 tips to help you find out whether your roof needs repair or replacement.
1) The Age of the Roof
The older your roof, the better off you are in going for a complete replacement. Even if a fix can temporarily fix an issue, are you sure it will actually fix its cause? You may end up needing future repairs in the near future, adding to the total cost. Especially if your roof is nearing the end of its warranty, or if it’s more than 20 years old, replacement should be a serious consideration.
2) The Area of Damage
Naturally, a singular fix may be enough for small areas of your roof. A few shingles fly off during a storm, or you spot the flashing around you chimney getting a bit out of whack – these are the signs that repair is all you need. But if the damage expands to multiple sections of your roof, or the area in need of replacement expands beyond a few, focused spots, it’s probably time for a more comprehensive solution and a new roof.
3) Shingle Granules
Every homeowner with an asphalt roof knows the little granules that come off. First-time homeowners can easily worry that finding these granules in your gutter is a sign of damage; in fact, it’s normal wear and tear. But if the granules begin to multiply, it’s a sign that your shingles are losing their protective capabilities. The shingles themselves will turn a darker color, a sure sign that you need more than just a few spots replaced – you need a new roof.
4) What About Your Gutters?
If your gutters are going bad in addition to some of the above warning signs, it’s probably time for a roof replacement. Gutters play a crucial part in allowing water to flow off your roof, preventing it from freezing, creating mold, or otherwise damaging the top of your home. Instead of paying multiple times to install new gutters and then focusing on a new roof, doing it all at once will save you both time and money.
5) Understanding the Costs
Speaking of money: you should also understand the short and long-term costs of roof repair and replacement. Naturally, small repairs will cost less than full replacement. However, if these replacement begin to multiply, your long-term costs may actually be more significant. The immediate impact on your wallet for roof replacement may be larger, but its long-term benefit will also impact you and your home positively.
6) Style Considerations
Don’t underestimate this point: new shingles will not look exactly like your old ones, no matter how hard your contractor tries. Simple wear and tear will distort color on your existing shingles, sometimes resulting in a patchwork look that some homeowners can’t stand. If you are one of them, a complete roof replacement may be your only choice in regaining a consistent, aesthetic look.
7) Talking to Professionals
All of the above considerations can help you determine whether your roof needs repair, or complete replacement. But ultimately, you should involve professionals in the process. They will be able to evaluate your roof, and give you a professional estimate on its total state. In addition, you can also learn about the costs it will take, and any other of the above variables. Getting professionals in to evaluate your roof and give you an honest evaluation is easy: just contact us, and we’ll work with you to find the best solution for your needs.