No matter how well you maintain your roof, it is going to deteriorate one-day needing replacement or re-roofing. But until then, you can struggle to decide when repairing is enough and when a replacement. Replacing a roof way ahead of its time can mean needless spending. And if you wait too long while leaks and water damage take a toll on the structure, you can again end up risking its life. Since it is a challenging decision, you cannot conclude anything immediately. For that, you need to have awareness about a few factors so that you can choose a wise option for your roof.
Points to ponder over while deciding between repair and replacement
Age
Roof age is a critical aspect. Asphalt shingles usually live for 15 to 30 years. If you notice small damage or a small affected area, you may repair it. But if the roof is very old, you may want to consider replacing it for a long-term benefit.
Leaks
For leakage issues, you need to get the whole structure checked so that you know how severe it is. Since flashing points are quite vulnerable, you can inspect there. If the leak is happening at an isolated spot, you can fix it with repairing. However, if it is widespread, you should get your entire roof replaced.
Staying or leaving home shortly
Since re-roofing requires a lot of investment, you need to consider how long you will be living in the same house. If you plan to do away with it in the coming years, it will be better if you repair the roof for damages. Just make sure the overall condition is alright, though. If it needs replacement, you can select eco-friendly roofing solutions to get some tax relief. Then, the new materials have become highly durable and energy-efficient nowadays. So, you don’t have to worry about the cost so much.
Removing existing structure
While calculating the expenses, you may realize that building a new roof from scratch can be more intelligent than putting an extra layer on the old ones. It can also be beneficial as it lets you have a good look at the roof deck or sheathing, and protect it against ice dams.
There can be several other scenarios also where you may have to choose one roofing solution over the other. However, it is critical to understand that repair works can solve your problem for a temporary period only. So, don’t get attracted to it just because it involves lower expenses. Replacement can be a pricey undertaking, but you can enjoy its advantages for long. Anyway, be careful with what you choose and why. If you are not sure about the right course of action in this regard, you can consult a trustworthy local roofer, such as CCC Roofing and Construction, for guidance. The experts can lead you through the entire repair and replacement process effortlessly, thanks to their knowledge and skills. So, don’t feel frustrated if you can’t decide. Approach the professionals for help.