Is your roof noticeably worn and missing shingles, or even suffering from leaks and more substantial roof failures?
Over a long enough time, homeowners will invariably be confronted with such situations and need to consider — does your roof require repairs, or has the time finally come for a replacement?
Even roofs of sturdy, top-quality materials will wear down due to old age and weather, eventually reaching their lifespan and no longer functioning as they should. In some cases, a roof replacement is the only option, but most of the time, it just needs a roof repair to have it performing its best again.
When Should You Replace Your Roof — Things to Consider
First, it is essential to know how old your roof is when deciding whether to replace it. It is also important to understand what type of roof you have.
For example, an asphalt shingle roof can last 20-40 years, while a brick roof can last 80 years.
Depending on your roof type and when it was installed, you may get a better sense of whether or not it is close to reaching its life expectancy. You can always check your home inspection report if you don’t know your roof’s age, or you can call a contractor for an inspection.
Unfortunately, sometimes a roof can require a replacement before expected. Along with your roof’s age, you may also want to be on the lookout for signs that a roof replacement could be in order:
- Discolored Roof: Extensive shingle loss, balding shingles, or shingle buckling curling are all signs of an old roof. So is moss growth or significant dark streaks caused by algae, which can eat away at a home’s roof.
- Roof Leaks: Roof leaks can sometimes be repaired, but they can also be a warning sign that a roof needs replacement. Left unchecked, these leaks can cause more extensive damage, leading to significant roof failure.
- Sagging Roof: One of the most significant signs that your roof is running past its lifespan is a sagging roof, which can mean there is critical structural damage to the decking in the attic or the foundation.
Advantages of Roof Repairs vs. Roof Replacement
In many cases, a roof repair will extend your roof’s lifespan, restore its performance and boost its looks — all at a fraction of the cost of a roof replacement. Homeadvisor.com says the typical roof repair costs between $379 and $1,741, while the average roof replacement costs $9,054; you may pay up to $45,000.
The many types of roof damage that are suitable for roof repairs include:
- Natural Damage: Some tree damage, as well as hail or wind damage, is often repairable.
- Leaks: Roof pipes and vents often include rubber or plastic materials that degrade and lead to leaking, but they can be repaired.
- Missing Shingles: Repairing a few missing/damaged shingles is a reasonably standard roof repair maintenance that your trusted roofer can take care of each year.
- Inadequate Ventilation: Condensation under your roof deck can lead to unwanted roof issues if left unchecked, and it can also mean your second story isn’t being appropriately ventilated.
- Poor Installation: If your roof shows a large amount of tar covering flashing, you may have suffered from a poor installation that can lead to significant issues if contractors do not make repairs in time.
An inspection from trusted professional roofers can help determine if a roof repair or replacement is proper. Of course, if you do not have a solid history working with a particular roofing company, it is always wise to get multiple assessments of your roof’s condition.
To get more roof advice or get a thorough roof assessment, contact Powell’s today.
