What Makes It So Hard to Know What to Do?
You cannot simply pick which is cheaper to do – repair your roof, or replace it? A roof may look like it can be fixed, but it could end up costing you money each time you have to repair it again over the next couple of years. And on the flip side, if you prematurely decide to replace a roof that is repairable, you waste many thousands of dollars. Each case will depend on how all of the factors play out.
When Roof Repair Will Save You Money
Damage Limited to One Area
If you have damage to your roof from a storm or branches falling down, if it is limited to a small part of the roof, then generally speaking, the roof repair is the way to go. Missing shingles from wind, broken tile(s), etc., can easily be repaired without having to touch the rest of your roof, provided the surrounding material is in good shape.
Young Roofs
Roofs under ten (10) years old with some form of minor damage can generally be repaired. If your asphalt shingle roof has another 10 years of expected use and the problem you have is a leaky pipe boot or loose flashing, the repair will extend the useful life of your roof without the expense of replacement.
Why Replacing Your Roof May Be a Better Financial Investment
Broad Wear Across the Entire Roof
On the other hand, widespread wear and tear across your roof dramatically alters the picture. When you begin to see curled shingles in various parts of your roof, granule loss throughout the entire roof, or damage to numerous sections, repairs become nothing more than band aids on a failing system. You will receive call after call to repair the roof, and each time the cost of the repairs will continue to rise.
Structural Issues
Structural issues such as sagging decking, rotting sheathing, or water damage to the underlayment also mean you need to replace your roof. These are structural issues and not merely cosmetic ones. To fix the shingles and ignore the structural problems, you are setting yourself up for larger failures down the road.
History of Repeated Repairs
A history of repeated repairs to your roof is a red flag. If you have had to make repeat calls to your roofer to come and repair your roof recently, your roof is trying to tell you something. While continuing to repair your roof may cost almost as much as the cost of a new roof over a short period of time, you will not get the same benefit to your roof that you will by installing a new one.
Cost, Longevity, and Warranties
Repair jobs are generally less expensive than replacement jobs. Repair costs generally fall within the range of $500 to $2,000, depending on the nature of the job. However, repairs do not extend the life of your roof. A 20-year-old roof that has been repaired is still a 20-year-old roof.
Replacement is more expensive to start with; however, it provides you with 15-25 years of protection and new warranties. In Massachusetts, this investment includes fixing ventilation issues, upgrading the underlayment, and ensuring adequate ice dam prevention. If your roof is older than 15 years and requires service, replacement generally provides greater value per year of protection.
Getting Help From a Professional Roofing Contractor
A professional roofing contractor assesses the age of your roof, the extent and location of the damage, and the overall condition of the materials throughout the entire system. He will identify problems you can’t see from the ground, including deteriorating underlayment and deck problems. Perhaps most importantly, he will give you a truthful recommendation based on what makes the most sense for your specific situation.
Do you have roof damage, or are you unsure of your roof’s condition? Contact Giannini Roofing today to schedule a full examination of your roof and to obtain an honest assessment as to the best course of action.
