Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof? Making the Right Decision for Your Home

By Millstream Construction

 

If you own a home, one of your primary responsibilities is determining whether to repair or replace your roof when an issue arises. For example, if your roof has several loose or missing shingles or you experience persistent roof leaks, as a homeowner, you’ll need to take action to prevent further problems.

Making this decision can be difficult for the average homeowner. Why? Repairing a roof might only be a temporary fix and not reach the heart of the problem. Replacing a roof could be more effective. However, it is a much more expensive alternative (and “unnecessary” if performing a roof repair would be adequate).

Repair Or Replace A Roof: 9 Vital Considerations

As a homeowner, ask yourself the following questions when evaluating which path to choose:

• Do You Have A Roof Warranty?

An existing roof warranty may offer insight into what direction to pursue. For example, you might pursue a roof replacement if the warranty covers specific perils. Conversely, if the warranty does not address the existing damage, you could pivot toward repairing the roof. Understanding what a roof warranty covers (e.g., materials, labor, etc.) may require the assistance of a reputable roofer.

• Have You Noticed Excessively High Energy Bills?

If you’ve observed a dramatic increase in your monthly heating, cooling, and electricity consumption, a malfunctioning roofing system could be the culprit. An inefficient roof no longer performs optimally and becomes an uncontrolled sieve for energy loss. Heat escapes during the winter (producing persistent draftiness) or becomes trapped indoors in the summer (causing constant stuffiness). 

• How Badly Damaged Is The Roof?

Your roof is more than the surface material (e.g., shingles, tiles, shakes, panels, etc.). It contains several sublayers, including the underlayment, decking, and framing. Even the attic insulation and ventilation are components of your roofing system. If any of these features fail, your roof’s performance will be compromised. For instance, a deteriorating underlayment may necessitate a roof replacement.

• How Old Is The Existing Roof?

The age of your current roof dictates your decision in many situations. For example, if you have a three-tab asphalt shingle roof, the average life expectancy of that material is between 12 and 20 years. If that roof is over 20 years old, it has already reached its life expectancy. Most roofers will recommend a roof replacement even if the roof might be serviceable for another two or three years.

• Is There An Urgent Need?

Dire situations call for immediate action. For example, suppose you need to sell your home within the next few months to a year. In that case, your real estate agent may encourage you to replace the roof if it is dilapidated or appears unsightly (e.g., curling or missing shingles, hail-related denting, etc.). Don’t take this advice as an affront. Most home buyers place a premium on a new roof.

• What Are Your Long-Range Objectives?

Are you living in your “dream” home? Do you plan to sell your home soon? In three years? Five years? Ten? Do you love the look and feel of cedar shakes but feel stuck with the relatively new asphalt shingle roof you “inherited” when you purchased your home five years ago? These questions provide insight into the path you should take if your roof should suffer damage requiring repair or replacement.

• What Is Your Available Budget?

Unless you have access to financing, replacing a roof requires a significant outlay of liquid funds (i.e., cash). Most homeowners don’t have that amount of money readily available. If your budget does not allow for a roof replacement at this time, a “temporary” roof repair (as a patch) may be the appropriate short-term solution.

• What Type Of Roof Is It?

Each roofing material requires a unique approach. For instance, if a 15-year-old slate roof (with an expected lifespan of 100+ years) suffers repairable surface damage, the homeowner would be advised to repair it, not replace it. Replacing a relatively new slate roof would cost 10 to 50 times as much as a repair. A 15-year-old three-tab asphalt shingle with the same damage might be easier to replace.

• Why Did The Roof Damage Occur?

If you’ve observed problems with your roof, identify the root cause. How? Hire a qualified roofing professional to inspect your entire roofing system comprehensively. The findings could reveal that your homeowner’s insurance policy provides indemnification for damage. In that case, your insurance company might be responsible for covering all or a portion of the repair or replacement cost.

Working With An Expert Roofing Professional

For Connecticut homeowners, contact Millstream Construction if an issue arises with your existing roof. We are the “go-to” shop for residential roofing. Whether your existing roof would benefit from repairs or it is time for a replacement, we have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process effectively and affordably. To learn more about our full menu of roofing services or to get a free estimate, schedule an appointment with Millstream Construction today.