Welcome to Family Roofing

All roofs deteriorate and eventually need to be replaced.  When is the right time to re-roof?  When are repairs enough?  If you replace your roof too soon, you’ll waste money.  If you wait too long, you risk ending up with roof leaks and expensive water damage.

When to replace a roof depends on several factors, including the shingles’ wear and age, the climate in your area, and your home’s susceptibility to future damage.

Roofing Replacement Vs. Repair: 7 Deciding Factors To Consider

Since roofing replacement is a rather costly investment, most homeowners want to postpone it for as long as they can, especially if the roof has reached the stage where it’s starting to have problems but is not completely shot.

The cost of a shingle roof has roughly doubled during the last 10 years, after all so repairs might seem more desirable.  Yet, many contractors will push for complete replacement, more focused on their bottom line than what’s best for their customer.

7 Factors To Consider In Deciding Whether To Repair Or Replace

• You roof’s age is one of the most important considerations. Most asphalt shingles have a lifespan of about 15 – 30 years.  If the roof is damaged but most of it is still in good shape, a spot repair may make sense.  If the roof is approaching (or past) 20 years old, replacing it may be the better way to go long-term.

• If there’s a leak somewhere, an inspection will help you determine how widespread it is.  Often, roofs will leak along flashing points.  If this is the case, and the leak is isolated, a quick repair may be all that is necessary.  If the roof is leaking in several places, a roofing replacement may be in order.

• Give some thought to how long you intend to be in the home.  If you’re planning to sell in the next few years, and the roof is in generally good condition, it may make more sense to have repairs done.

• If you opt to replace your roof, you may be able to incorporate environmentally-friendly features that qualify for local or federal tax credits to offset the cost.  Also, new materials are generally more energy efficient, last longer and perform better so an upgrade is desirable long-term.

• If you’re replacing your roof, you may find that the type and/or quality of roofing material you use can qualify you for significant discounts on your homeowner’s insurance policy.  Materials that are more resistant to fire or wind and hail damage will often result in lower rates.

• As you consider the costs, you may or may not be able to lay another layer of shingles over the existing roof, rather than removing the current layer and starting “from scratch”. At the same time, removing the old shingles will allow you to inspect the roof deck or sheathing, and add ice-and-water-shield membrane along the eaves (which can only be applied to a clean deck and will help prevent damage due to ice dams).

• If you’re thinking about replacing your roof, don’t forget to consider “hidden costs”, including gutter replacement or landscape damage.

Repairs are less expensive but tend to be more of a short-term solution, while a new roof is a big expense but should last you for decades.  Either way, make the right decision today and you won’t have to worry about leaks and damage when storms roll through.