How Do I Know if I Need to Repair or Replace My Roof?
If you’re asking yourself this question, then you have likely experienced a roof leak or seen shingles lying in your yard and need to find a quality roof repair company.
Many times your roof can simply be repaired, but there does come a time when replacing your roof is the only option. When is that time? Here are some ways to determine it.
How old is your roof?
If you have asphalt shingles, the age of your roof is one of the most important criteria. If you don’t know, then a local roof repair company should be able to let you know how much life your shingles have.
Lower end three-tab shingles will last between 15 and 20 years. Higher quality heavier shingles can last up to 40 years and resist wind speeds of 130mph. Your roof repair company should be able to share the cost differential and recommend the appropriate ones for your area and weather.
In the meantime, if it’s safe for you to look at your roof, here are some signs to look for when you examine the shingles:
- Curling or buckling
- Bald shingles
- Missing shingles
- Roof sagging
- Moss covering your roof
- Blistering shingles
- Granules in the gutter
You may need a professional from a roof repair company to look for these signs in a roof.
- Leaks around the Pipe Boot
- Leaks around the chimney
- Air gun nailing mistakes
- Nail pops
- Fascia replacement
- Punctures and holes
- Poor Installation
- Tree damage
- Weather damage
- Granule loss
- Splitting
- Shrinkage
- Ventilation problems
How long do you plan to stay in your home?
Is it your forever home you plan to pass down? Or are you relocating within a couple of years? This definitely factors in. Based on the remaining warranty (if applicable) and condition of your roof, it can be a factor in the price you can get for your home. You’ll have to work with a real estate professional to determine if a new roof will pay for itself with an increased price or not if you’re moving within a couple of years. Some estimate the increased value at 68% of the replacement cost so if it’s a hot real estate market, a repair may be all that is necessary if it can address any current problems.
How many repairs has your roof had?
Lots of repairs already? Roof between 15 and 20 years old? It may be time to consider a new roof. A roofing repair company can help evaluate and make recommendations. You may also be able to find a regular maintenance plan where your roof is checked out regularly so issues can be addressed before they become major problems.
Can I afford to replace my roof?
Can you afford a roof replacement? Does the roof repair company you’re considering have some financing options if you decide a replacement is the best route? If so, this may be a better option than continued roof repairs if you’re going to be in your home long term.
If it’s a toss up – you may want to consider that matching shingle colors for a roof repair can be tricky, and it could lessen your curb appeal if the portion that’s being repaired can be seen from the street.
You’ll also need to choose your roof repair company carefully because it’s different from roof replacement and poor workmanship can lead to more problems and roof leaks.
