Repair vs. Replace: Finding the Right Roofing Solution

When your roof simply isn’t doing its job, you can’t afford to sit on it. Air leaks might not only be costing you a fortune in energy bills, but the possibility of mold, mildew, and a rotting loft can cost you a lot more, both in repairs and the health risks to your family. You have two choices on how to handle it: should you replace your roof or should you repair it? Here, we’re going to look at the factors that play into your decision.

 

How extensive is the damage?

 

If there is visible damage on the roof, learning the extent of it is important. A repair can help you easily replace single shingles that have been cracked, chipped, or pried loose. However, replacing a single shingle or patching over a damaged part of the roof does come with some risks. New shingles may not fit well with a roof that has been exposed to rain, snow, and heat, and acclimated over time. Having an Arizona roofing expert inspect the roof closely is always recommended to understand which option is best.

 

Is the roof warping or buckling?

 

Shingles can become cracked, pry loose, or break due to a range of factors, including storms. However, there are other visible signs that something is more deeply wrong, such as buckling in the roof or curling shingles. If you see these changes, a replacement may be more appropriate.

 

Are there signs of extensive water damage?

 

The pervasiveness and destructive capabilities of water should not be underestimated. An expert roofing company can help you see the extent of water damage that might not be visible to the naked eye. However, if there are visible signs of moisture or water damage, such as black spots on the ceiling, peeling paint, or sagging, it may be necessary to replace the whole roof rather than repair it.

 

Has it been hit by a recent weather disaster?

 

Severe storms are not unfamiliar to most Arizona residents and many of them can hit your roof particularly hard, especially older roofs. If the roof has been damaged following extensive weather damage or a particularly harsh winter, then it may be necessary to replace it entirely.

 

How old is your roof?

 

Depending on your roof, it may be time to consider replacing it even if it hasn’t started to show any signs of failure. A roof that’s leaking after five years is likely failing due to damage, a fault in the installation process, or faulty materials. A good shingle roof tends to have a lifespan of between 20 and 25 years. Learn which materials your roof is made of and about the expected lifespan. If it’s older than the average lifespan, it may be more cost-effective to replace it. If you repair it, you may only end up paying for more repairs or replacements down the line as it’s more likely to fail again.

 

Should I replace my roof or repair it?

 

Whichever choice you make, it’s essential you enlist the help of an experienced, licensed team of professionals. From homes in Arizona, America Roofing is the team of roofing experts you need. Get in touch and we can help you decide what the best course of action is and ensure that it’s handled in the most cost-effective, reliable manner possible.