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Repairing or replacing the roof is something which every homeowner has to undertake some time or the other and despite the vital importance of the roof, it is not an activity to which any homeowner looks forward. Because roof replacement can typically be a very costly affair, the question of whether making repairs instead of replacing the roof is worth considering. The other side of the coin is that a new roof can easily last at least 20 years or more so given its life, the investment required may well be worth it.
Repair or Replace the Roof?
The decision to repair or replace a roof is typically not something that an average homeowner is competent to decide because, not being an expert on the subject, he can easily miss certain vital signs of underlying problems that may indicate a specific course of action. According to https://money.cnn.com, a leaking roof can lead to multiple problems like rot, mold, electrical shorts, and insect ingress, all of which can be expensive to tackle. If you have problems with your roof that are compromising the health of your home as well as that of its inhabitants, it may be better to consult a professional roofer for his advice.
What Can Be Normally Repaired?
Generally, minor issues with the roof can be easily tackled by the homeowner or by a roofing contractor and if the maintenance is done regularly, the life of the roof can be extended a lot with on time roofing New Rochelle. Missing shingles can easily allow water to penetrate to the underlying layers and very quickly lead to damp and deterioration unless replaced promptly. Even though it is quite likely that the new shingles may not match the existing ones and affect the appearance of your roof negatively, you should not hesitate from replacing it immediately after it comes to your notice. Another common issue that is easily repairable is leaks along the roof flashing. These leaks can be easily addressed by using the right kind of sealant, however, if the number of leaks is very large, sealing them may not be a long-term solution.
When Is a Roof Replacement Needed?
The fundamental task of the roof is to keep out moisture and the elements so if you notice large areas of damp or broken structure that can compromise the integrity of the roof, the roof should be replaced. If the roof is old, the underlying structure may have become weak and tend to sag, in which case, the roof can easily collapse if left unattended. Telltale signs are a large accumulation of granules in the roof gutters, broken shingles, and a sagging roof. Typically, roofs will last 20 years or even more depending on the material, so if the roof is nearing the end of its life, it may not be worthwhile to keep on repairing it.
Conclusion
Given the vital importance of the roof, it is important to have your roof examined by an expert roofer periodically. Regular inspection and maintenance can keep the roof healthy for long but there will come a time when the replacement will be inevitable.
