Roof Repair versus Roof Replacement: How to Know
Your roof is the barrier that protects you, your family, and your belongings from the elements. It also regulates the temperature inside your home and keeps you comfortable. You want to make sure that it’s in good working order. Should you notice an issue, you may be wondering if you should get it repaired or replaced.
Replacing a roof can be an expensive endeavor, so you may want to put it off for as long as possible. When it comes to deciding whether or not you need repair or a roof replacement, consider the questions listed below.
How Old Is Your Roof?
A roof can last for quite a while. If you have asphalt shingles, these can last for 15 to 30 years. On average, the life expectancy for most roofs is 20 years. Thus, if your roof is 20 years or older and you are having issues with it, then it’s probably in your best interest to get roof replacement. While this may cost you a large upfront fee now, it will save you in the long run.
Is Your Roof Leaking?
If you notice water spots in your ceiling or you just took a trip into your attic and noticed that it felt humid or there was mold growing, these are all signs that your roof is leaking. The best course of action to take in this case is to have it inspected. Leaks can be caused by a variety of different things, including the seals around flashings being cracked or broken or unknown damage to your roof.
Should the leaks be caused by cracked or broken flashings, then this can be fixed with roof repair. If the inspector finds more than one area that is allowing water to get into your home, then you will more than likely need to get your roof replaced.
Is there Moss or Lichen on Your Roof?
Both of these elements grow in environments that are humid and shady. They can get under shingles and lift them, which may allow water to get into your home. If you have moss or lichen growing on your roof, while it’s unsightly, it may not require getting your entire roof replaced. In most cases, this can be cleaned off and roof repair can be made to ensure your roof is functioning the way it should.
Have You Noticed Granules in Your Gutter or Downspout?
If you have been out in your yard and noticed that you have granules in your downspout, this is a sign that your shingles are wearing down and need to be replaced. The granules are placed on shingles to block out the sunlight and UV rays. As they are exposed to the sun and as the shingles age, these granules dry out. When that happens, they become loose and are removed from your roof by water.
Sunlight and age aren’t the only things that can impact the granules on your shingles. Adverse weather conditions can also remove them from the surface. If you recently experienced high winds, heavy rains or hail and then noticed these granules in your downspouts or gutters, this is another sign that you need to get your roof replaced.
Do You Having Missing Shingles?
If you look up on your roof and notice that you are missing shingles, you’ll want to call in a professional to have your roof inspected. It’s possible that they were removed during a storm or high winds, or they may have come loose due to age. It’s possible that repairing the missing shingles will be all that you need. However, to know for sure, it’s a good idea to have a professional look at your roof.
Does Your Roof Look Like It’s Drooping or Sagging?
If you notice that your roof is dipping or sagging, this is an indication that you have structural damage. Not only is this unsightly, but it’s also a safety hazard. To correct the problem, you will need to have your roof replaced.
Did a Tree Just Fall on Your Roof?
If you have trees that are close to your roof, then the possibility exists that branches or the tree itself could fall onto the structure. Depending on the size of the tree, this could result in needing to get your roof replaced or perhaps a few small repairs. Once again, calling in a professional to inspect the damage is a good idea.
Are You Still Happy with Your Roof?
If you’ve recently repainted your house and you no longer think the roof matches, this could be another indicator that you need to get it replaced. The curb appeal of your home is incredibly important and impacts how happy you are with the structure. Changing the roof so that it looks good is a reason why many get their roof replaced.
Have You Noticed an Increase in Your Utility Bills?
If your heating and cooling bills have increased rapidly and unexpectedly, this could be a sign that your roof isn’t working the way it should. Having it inspected will be beneficial. Depending on what the roofer finds, the fix may require some repairs, or the entire roof might need to be replaced.
If you are wondering whether or not you need a new roof or just need it repaired, give us a call today to schedule an inspection and get an estimate.