Should I Repair or Replace My Roof?
Deciding whether to repair or replace a damaged roof is a question many homeowners grapple with as their roof starts to show its age. For many, it is a often a question that comes down to the roof’s age, how severe the damage is, the cost to repair, whether the home will be going on the market in the near future and the desired finished result. Another consideration is if your roof already has more than one layer of shingles existing.
When to Repair a Damaged Roof
When it is a newer roof, and just a few missing shingles or a small section of the roof is damaged, roof repair can be the best option. For example, if there is a dry-rot caused by a leak and limited to a small area, roof repair is a cost-effective solution that will correct the problem and usually not negatively impact the roof’s overall appearance. Although matching the color is not always an option due to material availability.
When to Replace a Damaged Roof
Roofs are susceptible to time, sun and weather. When a roof ages it suffers UV damage and degranulation and component failure. When it has suffered extensive damage, then replacement is usually the best choice. This might include roofs where multiple leaks have spread over a wide area, fallen trees have damaged a portion of your roof or dry-rot has spread significantly. At times it may not be possible to tie-in a repair to an existing roof if it’s deteriorated too far. It’s also important to consider how much the repair may cost with respect to the remaining useable life of the roof.
Another consideration is that the more extensive the area that needs repairing, the less likely it is that the new shingles or tiles will blend in with the existing roof. This can negatively impact the home’s aesthetics and reduce its value, resale, or become unsightly, which is why many homeowners opt for a full replacement when the repair costs or scope become extensive.
Consider the Costs Carefully
Naturally, roof repairs in Sacramento typically cost less in the short term than a roof replacement. However, the long-term cost can include a potential reduction in property value, difficulty selling the home, sleepless nights in the winter and the need for additional repairs or full replacement in the future. Thus, it’s essential to consult with a professional roofing contractor to determine which is the most cost-effective solution for your property.
