A roof replacement costs somewhere between $9,500 and $16,500. It’s assuming you have a 2,000 to 2,200 square-foot house. It further depends on factors like the size of your home, your location, and the roofing material.
Regardless, a full replacement isn’t easy on the wallet. It’s why many homeowners settle with small repairs to get the roof back in good shape.
How do you know if you need a roof repair or replacement? Keep on reading to find out the appropriate action:
Factors to Help You Decide
Replacements are expensive, so it’s not always the better choice. Learn what to do using the factors below.
Age
Is your roof 20 years or older? It might already be past its lifespan. Asphalt shingles, the most common roofing material in the United States, last around 20 years.
Repairing isn’t a wise investment as you’ll need to replace your roofing system soon anyway. Replacing it as a whole now makes it more secure. Even if it looks okay, it might already have underlying issues, causing it to break soon.
If your roof is relatively new, consider the other factors. You might have a lot of years left with your roof, so repairing is a better option.
Note that tile, slate, and copper roofs last around 50 years. Fiber cement shingles have a lifespan of about 25 years while wood shake roofs have 30 years. Consider your roof’s age and material to help you decide.
Severe Weather
The figures above don’t account for severe weather and catastrophes. Hurricanes or hail storms, for example, would significantly diminish the lifespan of your roofs.
If you’ve experienced it recently, there’s a good chance you have roof damage. Check the extent to determine whether you need a roof repair or roof replacement.
Extent of Damage
it might be the most important factor to consider. Too much damage might require a whole replacement even if you have a fairly new roof.
Extensive roof damage can cause further damage to the whole structure. Leaks are likelier to happen, compromising the integrity of your house.
A few missing shingles, for example, might not demand a roof replacement right away. However, too many missing shingles due to a calamity means getting a new roof.
In general, you’ll be okay with a repair job if the damage is minor or if it affects a small part of your roof. Patch jobs can fix these right away with no further issues.
Roof Health
Discolorations, curling shingles, and other problems are signs your roof’s health is deteriorating. In such cases, you’ll likely need a replacement soon.
Shingles cupping upwards or curling downwards are signs your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. It can either be due to age or weathering. Either way, replace them right away before they cause leaks and other damages.
Look out for buckling as well. It usually looks like waving or rippling. It’s a sign of a faulty roof, often due to poor workmanship.
Loss of granules and rotting shingles are also huge causes of concern. These are often more obvious indicators to replace your roof.
You can still patch up your roof, allowing it to work for a while. At some point, repairs won’t cut it anymore. They’re only a costly stop-gap to buy you more time until you’re ready for a replacement.
Resale Value and Curb Appeal
Are you looking to resell your home? If so, ensure the roof is in tip-top shape before putting your house on the market.
If your roof is on the older side, it’s best to replace the roof instead. It offers better protection and insulation, making it more attractive to new homeowners. As a result, it increases your home’s resale value.
While you’re at it, choose a new roofing system to upgrade the look of your home. Pick a good material with matching colors for your roof’s theme.
Roof Repair vs Replacement
After assessing the factors above, now comes the actual decision-making. Sometimes, the right decision isn’t as obvious. Here are a few extra tips to help you.
Compare Costs and Risk Factors
A roof replacement is going to be more expensive than a roof repair service. However, it can still be the more economical choice if you review the other factors.
If your roof is due for a replacement soon, you’ll save more money replacing it now than repairing and then replacing it after a while. You also need to think of other costs, like damages to your home if you choose patch-ups.
A roof in its final days can’t protect your home as intended. You may have to pay for a lot more than a roof replacement if you don’t choose the right decision.
Get a Professional Inspector
To get the best opinion on the matter, get a professional to inspect your roof. They know how to spot the signs of extensive damage. It may look fine to you on the outside, but it may have a host of issues a regular homeowner can’t detect.
The key is to get a reputable roof repair company to give an accurate assessment of your roof’s condition. Find someone you can trust. If it’s your first time, look for some online reviews or referrals from friends and family members.
Some services give a free assessment, but hiring an inspector will cost you. Still, it allows you to save more money and avoid a lot of problems in the long run.
Find a Reputable Roofing Company
Whether you need a roof repair or replacement, you need a good roofing contractor. Your roof protects you from the outside elements, so they deserve the best treatment.
Are you looking for roofing experts to work with? Keep your roof in its best condition with the help of a trusted contractor. For more information, feel free to contact us today.