When the roof shows signs of damage, it becomes difficult to understand whether a roof repair is needed or replacement is more suitable. Repairing a roof is limited to taking care of the damage. Whereas, a roof replacement involves, replacing the entire roof.
In this blog, we will tell you what factors to consider before you decide whether to repair a roof or replace it.
Age of the Roof
Do you know when your roof was installed? The age of the roof is a crucial factor in deciding whether to replace or repair it. All roofs have an expected life which depends on the manufacturers, materials, etc.
Mostly, roofs last 10-15 years or longer. If your roof is only a few years old, you can go for repairing the damaged sections. However, when the roof is old, it may experience damage that can make it prone to further damage.
Roof repair is a temporary solution. Moreover, it does not make a roof life span long, as it depends on the age of the original roof. If the current damage is only 1-2 areas, it is better to replace the roof. Otherwise, you might end up getting roof repairs regularly and it will cost you way more than a replacement.
Type of Roof
The type of roof is also an important factor to consider to decide whether to replace or repair a roof. For instance, a slate roof can last over 100 years. Therefore, you can repair the roof, instead of replacing it. In this case, roof tiles can be replaced and the labor involved is less.
However, if the damage is due to structural failure or if the water damage has also damaged the deck, it makes sense to replace the whole roof.
With other types of roofs, age is a major factor to consider.
![Roof Repair vs. Replacement](https://ricksmainroofing.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ffcr-construction-bg-dark-1024x682.jpg)
Extent of the Damage
The other factor to consider is the extent of the damage. How much damage has been caused? Is it just a few shingles or did water has crossed the moisture barrier? Did the roof experience a leak due to damage? Or was the deck damaged or exposed?
If the damage is in a small area of the roof, roof repair is an affordable way to cater to the problem. But if the damage is on a large scale, then it is better to get your roof replaced.
Long Term Planning
The next factor is long-term plans. This means how long do you plan to live in your home? If you are thinking about selling it in a few years, a new roof can be a valuable addition as it increases the property value and becomes a selling point for the buyers. You don’t have to go for a very expensive roof.
On the other hand, if you are going to stay in the home forever, then it is better to upgrade the roof.
Urgency
The urgency of the situation also helps to decide which option to choose. If a major storm is going to hit your area, you might not have the time to go for an entire roof replacement. In this case, repairing or protecting the roof is the best option to protect your property.
Moreover, you should not wait for the storm season to be over to deal with the damage at once as it can cost you more than temporary repair.
Energy Efficiency
Roofing materials improve each year. Good roofing materials are energy efficient. An energy-efficient roof can help you to recover some of the installation cost in energy savings. If you invest in an energy-efficient roofing material at the time of replacement, it can help you save energy bills.
Budget
One of the major factors that can help you decide which road to take is your budget.
Repair is generally less expensive, but not always. The cost of repair depends on per square roof and sometimes it is more expensive. The extent of the roof repair can affect the price.
Geographical Area
If you live in a country that has many hail storms, tornadoes, or hurricanes, then it is important to replace the missing shingles. To prevent future damage, it is crucial to repair the issues as early as possible. This is because damage from falling debris, storms, or hails can also affect the long-term performance, appearance, etc of the roof.
Benefits of Roof Replacement
Roof replacement might cost you more, but it can save money and avoid cost of multiple repairs in the future. Moreover, a new roof provides the following:
- Give a new look and appearance
- Increase the property value
- Increase the curb appeal
- Increase energy efficiency
- Gives peace of mind
Look No Other Than Ricks Main Roofing For Roofing Solutions
Whether you need a roof repair or replacement, you always need professionals to cater to your roofing problems. You should never compromise on choosing the right roofing contractor. Therefore, you can rely on the expert roofs of Ricks Main Roofing. We aim to provide top-class roof repairs, replacement, and installation at a cost that won’t break the bank. With years of experience and expertise, we have been dealing with roofs. Thus, don’t wait any longer and contact us right away!