When dealing with roofing damage that has homeowners making calls to local roofing contractors, a question that frequently arises is whether repairs are possible or if the whole roof should be replaced.
Roof repair usually seems better than a total replacement, but that isn’t always the case.
To figure out which option ends up being more cost-effective, roofers typically consider a few critical points.
- Overall Condition of the Roof - Before any decision to do roof repair should be made, always look at the overall condition of the roof and use that as a basis. If it is in perfect condition, repairs make sense. If the roof is already suffering from some kind of damage or is aging prematurely, roofers might suggest a replacement instead.
- Roof Age - A newer roof that is still in very good condition and can still give a full service life after roofers repair it is a prime candidate to be repaired. Conversely, if the roof is older and nearing its life expectancy, sinking money into repairs now when further age-related damage is always possible may not be a wise investment.
- Extent and Cost of the Damage - Weighing against the previous two points, roofing contractors must also consider the type of damage and how widespread it is. Repairs that could involve most of the roof suggest a full roof replacement might be best, especially if the cost of repairs is already going to be close to the cost of a new roof. Serious damage that is confined to a smaller area, like a penetration through the roof or one section of shingles being damaged, is more easily and cost-effectively repaired.
- Is The Damage Insured - Whether or not the damage is insured might also affect the decision. If it is covered, the decision to repair or replace might end up being up to the insurance company.
- Plan for Selling the Home - Another ancillary factor that might affect the recommendation of roof repair or replacement is whether there are plans to sell the home soon. Repairs can take a while to complete and while a new roof might cost initially, it can also be a selling point that brings a higher sale price for the house.
Roof repairs are sometimes the best way to go when dealing with lesser or more confined damage on a newer roofing system or when an insurance company agrees to pay repairs, but not a replacement.
Yet when dealing with damage to an older roof or problems that are widespread affecting a large portion of the roof, a replacement can be the better choice.
Since no answer is correct in every situation, homeowners and roofing contractors should weigh the pros and cons of each option to pick the most efficient one.