Do I Need a Roof Repair or Roof Replacement?
If you believe the National Roofing Contractors Association, a roof should last around 20 years. However, the repair or replace your roof question should become clear after considering several questions about your roof. These questions are not just something that should come into focus after a hailstorm, windstorm, etc. You need preventative maintenance on your roof to promote longevity. If you can repair your roof instead of replacing it, you may save money and the environment (dumping old roofing materials into landfills).
Even if your roof is leaking, it does not mean that a complete roof replacement is necessary. Many times, roofing companies will tell you to replace your roof without ever inspecting it. Depending upon your home and roof, this can cost thousands of dollars. However, many roof leaks are caused by flashing that has come loose or even deteriorated.
Roof damage is inescapable and usually occurs gradually, not by one big event such as a tornado or an ice storm. Causes of roof damage include a poorly ventilated attic, wind, the sun, rain, snow and ice, and trees and leaves. You should take these factors into consideration when deciding whether you need to repair or replace your roof. These factors can lead to some signs that will help you determine whether to repair or replace.
First, consider if your interior walls have moisture stains on them or if the paint is peeling from the walls, as these can be signs of roof leakage. One or two stains or paint peels can be signs that you may just fix the problem. However, multiple stains may show more widespread damage to your roof, and a replacement may be necessary.
Second, inspect your roof from the outside for missing and/or damaged shingles. The damage may include shingles that are curled, torn, split, or missing. A good rule of thumb is if 30 percent or more of the roof is damaged, then a roof replacement may be the better option.
Third, has your roof withstood a windstorm, hailstorm, tornado, or other potentially damaging event lately? This is a sign that the whole roof should be replaced because usually there is damage that you cannot see. This damage, while not visible, can “snowball” over time and create more and bigger problems.
Fourth, your roof’s age should be considered. Is the roof on your home past its expected lifespan which can vary depending on the roofing material used for your roof. Asphalt shingles, wood shingles, slate shingles, metal and aluminum, and clay or concrete tile have different expected lifespans. You should also realize that some materials on your roof can be overlaid and some materials should be removed before adding additional roofing materials.
Ultimately, always seek professional advice from expert roofing contractors