Getting the full life expectancy out of any roof may involve paying for some roof repairs as the years pass.
While prompt roofing repairs are essential for preventing additional damage from occurring, there will come a time when the better option is getting a whole new installation.
How can homeowners know that their best option is a roof replacement over investing in repairs due to sudden or ongoing problems?
These tips should help them determine when that time has come!
1. What Is The Roof Type?
Depending on the roof type, significant roof repairs may be worthwhile if the roofing installation is known to be a highly resilient one.
Roofs made from slate, clay tile, and high-quality metal are all exceptionally durable, with long life expectancies.
Those made of asphalt shingles, wood, or other less durable materials may not be worth repairing, as these are lower-durability, shorter lifespan roofing systems.
2. How Old Is The Roof?
Regardless of what type it is, age should be a prime factor when deciding whether to invest in roofing repairs or opt for a full replacement.
Even the most durable roof might be best replaced if it is near or over its life expectancy, for various reasons.
Old technology, materials that have been exposed to the elements for decades, and the likelihood that the system will continue to fail must all be weighed when making this decision with an older roof.
3. How Severe Is The Damage?
No matter how new or old a roof may be, extensive damage is a sign that a roof replacement could be the best choice over trying to repair it.
Whether serious damage is caused by a tree hitting the roof, a major hailstorm, or a large portion being blown off in a hurricane, sometimes even brand-new roofs should be replaced rather than attempting to repair it all component by component.
4. What Does The Local Building Code Mandate?
In certain locations, local building codes mandate that re-roofing as a roof repair is either not allowed or there are limits to the number of layers that can be put on a roof to resolve chronic roofing problems.
Since re-roofing is generally not recommended and many insurance companies will not cover a home that has undergone this process, replacement is usually the best option for roofs affected by widespread damage.
5. What Are Long-Term Plans for The Home?
A new roof is a desirable selling feature on any home that is listed for sale, often resulting in the seller being able to ask more for the home.
If repairs must be made, a roof replacement may be the best choice if there are plans to offer the home for sale soon.
6. What Is The Cost Comparison?
Homeowners deciding between the cost-effectiveness of roofing repairs over a full replacement should get estimates for both while considering all other factors like age, roof type, and current condition.
Sometimes, the cost of making repairs will come close enough to a full replacement that opting for the latter ends up being the more economical choice.
7. Do Roof Replacement Benefits Outweigh The Cost?
Beyond the more obvious details for deciding between roof repairs or replacement, homeowners should also consider other factors like the increased energy efficiency of a new roof, the enhanced appearance of their home, and the potential increase in their property value.
Likewise, the available budget for either repairs or replacement must also play a part in the decision and whether any recommended repairs will be enough that the roof will last as long as it should.
Seek The Advice of An Experienced Roofing Service
It can be hard to know whether roofing repairs are the best option for dealing with roof damage or if a replacement should be done.
To discuss the various options as well as their pros and cons, a respected local roof replacement contractor can help homeowners determine which solution makes the most sense for them!
