Roof Replacement vs. Roof Repair: Making the Right Decision
Whether to repair or replace your roof is an important decision. It’s one that affects how much money you’ll spend and your home’s curb appeal.
It’s a good idea to consider your long-term plans when making the decision. The benefits of timely commercial roof replacement at husbandinfo.com. Extend roof life, prevent damage, and enhance safety. read more.
1. Age
Roofs are designed to protect a home against extreme weather conditions, but even the most durable roofing materials don’t last forever. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, a roofing professional will likely recommend replacing it rather than simply patching up damaged areas.
An old or failing roof can pose safety issues for homeowners and their families. For example, a deteriorating roof may become susceptible to leaks and mildew, which can lead to health issues like respiratory problems when inhaled.
Often, these problems aren’t apparent to homeowners until it is too late. That’s why it’s important to do a visual inspection of your roof every couple of years and watch for signs that it may need to be replaced, including shingles that look wavy or worn, or a shingle that has been ripped off during storms. A new roof will prevent further damage to your home and keep you and your family safe and comfortable for many more years.
2. Damage
When deciding whether to repair or replace a roof, the extent of damage must be taken into account. A roof that’s worn and looks weathered can decrease your home’s curb appeal and make it less attractive to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell.
A new roof will restore your home’s appearance and add value to it. A partial reroof can be a cost-effective option if most of the roof is in good condition but one section requires replacement. However, it can be difficult to match the color of new and old roofing materials, so there will be some aesthetic differences.
Extreme damage to a roof may require a replacement, such as structural problems or visible leaks. Stains on ceilings and walls are a sure sign that a leaky roof needs to be replaced immediately. It can lead to water damage and mold in the home. Also, a sagging roofline could collapse and put your entire house at risk.
3. Insurance
There is a decent chance that if you have significant roof damage, your homeowners insurance will cover some or all of the costs. It’s important to review your policy and work with an adjuster if needed to understand what coverage is available. However, it’s also important to remember that you will still have to pay your deductible.
Replacing your roof is usually a more extensive project than repair alone. It involves replacement of shingles, decking, gutters, vents, soffits and eaves. It may also include replacing flashing and other structural components.
One of the most important things to consider is how many claims you already have on your insurance record. The more claims you have, the higher your rates will be. Often, it makes sense to file a claim for a new roof even if you have to pay the deductible because over time your new roof will save you money in lower homeowners insurance premiums.
4. Cost
The cost of roof replacement can vary widely based on home size, the type of roofing materials used, and other factors. Generally speaking, however, the larger the roof and the more complicated the design, the more expensive it will be.
It’s important to get estimates from several contractors, as prices vary significantly. Moreover, the National Roofing Contractors Association recommends asking for proof of liability insurance coverage and workers compensation before hiring any contractor.
Considering that a new roof can increase your property value, it may be worth the investment if you’re planning to sell your home in the future. However, if you’re only planning to stay in your house for a few more years, repairs might be the better option.
Replacing a damaged or aging roof can save you money on energy bills and reduce the risk of costly water damage in the future. It can also improve your home’s curb appeal and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
