Patching Your Roof Vs. Replacing It?
Before weighing the pros and cons of patching your roof, versus replacing it entirely, you’ll want to consider why the damage occurred. In addition, the extent of the damage and the age and condition of your roof all need to be considered.
- Did a storm with high winds or heavy rain cause the damage?
If the damage was related to a storm that tore shingles off a portion of your roof or caused a tree branch to fall and damage your structure, your insurance company may cover the cost of repairs. Earlier posts have highlighted how State Farm, Farmers, Allstate, and Liberty Mutual, handle roofing claims. Mitigating the damage and getting an estimate will be your first steps.
- What type of roofing material covers your roof?
Most roof warranties are from the manufacturer of the roofing materials. Asphalt shingles are usually warrantied for 25 to 30 years. Local weather conditions contribute to how long a roof will last, given the type of roofing material used. Sun can age roofing materials prematurely, like asphalt shingles, just like it ages our skin. Clay tiles are suited to very sunny climates, as they can take the sun and their useful life is 50 to 100 years or more.
- Did a leak begin due to a lack of maintenance?
A roof isn’t something you think about every day. As long as it is doing its job, we’re happy. When a leak happens, a roof gets our full attention, since so much is a stake if the interior of our home is damaged. Booth and Little recommends yearly inspections, to ensure that homeowners are not missing conditions that are hard to see. For instance, if your shingles or tiles are broken or show signs of wear, or debris is building up in one area, a professional roofer can help you address that.
Pros and Cons
Once you find the answer to those questions, you’ll be able to weight the pros and cons for your specific situation.
Pro to Patch
A roof repair could be the right choice, if the damage is not extensive or chronic and your roof is younger than 15 years old and in good condition.
Con to Patch
If the damage is extensive and your roof is closer to twenty years old, you’ll want to consider the short term benefits of the repair costs vs. the long term benefits of a full replacement. Your budget and costs will certainly factor into your decision.
Pro to Replace
If your roof is close to its end date and a repair in one area may simply shift your leak problem to another area of your roof, due to damaged roofing material, a replacement will be your best option.
Contact us today if you have questions about whether your roof needs a repair or replacement. One of our professional roofers will be happy to help you weight your specific pros and cons.