No one likes to see evidence of roof damage like a loose shingle in the yard or water spots on the ceiling of a home or small business. Yet, not addressing roof damage immediately can cost you a lot of money and time. For most people, determining whether to repair or replace a roof can be overwhelming.
Our team at GreenCal Construction has over 20 years’ experience in commercial and residential roofing. In our time in the Southern California roofing industry, we have been asked many times about repairing verses replacing a roof. Our goal is to provide you with the resources you need to make the right decisions. We put our collective heads together to boil down the key issues to consider when deciding to repair or replace your roof.
AGE:
Depending on the quality and materials, a roof can last anywhere from 15 and 40 years. If your roof is only a few years old, it might make sense to repair it. On the other hand, it would make more sense to replace an 18-year-old roof that has a 20-year warranty.
Signs of an aging a roof include:
–missing shingles
— bald or curling shingles
— sagging in roof
— missing granules
LEAKS
Water stains on your ceiling or running down walls could indicate a leak in your roof. Potential water damage needs to be addressed right away. If left unchecked, it can cause rot, mold, and damage to ceilings and insulation. If the leak is small and confined to one location, a repair may do the trick. Multiple leaks spread across different areas may indicate a need to replace the entire roof. Your best bet for finding the source of a leak and determining the best course of action is to have a certified roofing contractor inspect the roof.
BUDGET
Money is definitely a key consideration when weighing the benefits of repair verses replacement. Repairing will cost less than replacing your roof. However, if several repairs are needed over the course of a few years, this could quickly add up to more than replacing the whole thing.
While it might be tempting to save some money by repairing your roof yourself, this usually ends up costing more in the long run. Quality roof repair requires specialized skills. Attempting a DIY roof repair can also be dangerous, so make sure to use a qualified roof repair company to do the job right. This will save you money and keep you from getting injured.
EXTENT OF DAMAGE
Minor damage such as a few loose shingles can usually be repaired easily. Repairing more extensive damage that is confined to one area of the roof can also be an option. The downside to a partial repair is aesthetics. As roofing material can fade over time due to exposure to the elements, it can be difficult to match the exact color of the existing roof.
If the damage is widespread and major, a roof replacement is the best option. A new roof can make your home look years younger and greatly enhance the curb appeal. Because of advances in roofing technology, you can also see a boost in energy efficiency with a new roof.
The only way to truly know what your roof needs is to have it inspected by a qualified roofing contractor. Let our team of professionals help you make the right decision. Let us show you how we earned the trust of hundreds of satisfied customers. Contact us today for a free inspection.
