Uh oh, there’s a damp spot on your ceiling. Water is trickling through the roof. What should you do? Depending on the material it’s made from, a roof can last thirty years or more, but your roof can be damaged or fail prematurely due to falling debris, wind, hail or ice. Structural issues with roof vents, flashing and the chimney can also damage the roofing system. But, when there is damage, do you need a new roof, or can you get by with a roof repair? It depends:
What is the age of your roof? If your roof is less than twenty years old, it makes sense to see if damage can be repaired, since you could otherwise expect another ten to twenty years of service. However, if you’re having significant problems and your roof is near the end of its “use by” date, it may be wise to invest in a new one.
What type and degree of damage does your roof have? If you have a missing shingle due to wind damage or falling debris, a replacement shingle is typically all you need. However, if numerous shingles are missing, if the shingles are curling or buckling, or if the shingle granules are lost (an indication of deterioration), it’s time to plan for a new roof.
What are your budgetary and long-term needs? Smaller repairs tend to be less expensive. If a simple replacement or patch can solve the problem, that’s great, but a “fix it and forget it” approach might work well if you want a new roof that you won’t need to worry about for years.
Additional Roofing Considerations:
If you need more than a roof patch, you still have options. If the damage is confined to one area of the roof, you might opt for a partial reroofing. However, on a per square basis, a partial reroofing can be more expensive than a complete reroofing. In addition, a new partial roof may not blend seamlessly with the original sections of the roof.
At Baker Roofing, we know making the right decision about your roof is important—and it can be complicated. We specialize in roof repairs, roof replacement and new roof construction. Contact us for more information about how to solve any and all roofing issues.
