As a homeowner, roofing is one of the essential things you need to maintain your property. Without a roof, your home will be like an abandoned ship in a sinking boat. Moreover, you should also know how much time and money is spent on maintaining your home. Sometimes there is a need for a new roof, or in other cases, to repair or replace old ones. If you are wondering whether to spend on repairs or replacements, there are some tips that might help. If you need to decide whether it is the right time to repair, patch, or replace your roof, these are some helpful factors you can use as guidelines.
1. Age of the Roof
Sometimes, repairing roofs is more expensive compared to replacing them. However, the main reason is that the old roofs have started to deteriorate and need replacement. Furthermore, the cost will always be higher, especially if it’s a residential roof. If you are unsure when your roof should be replaced, you should consider the age of your roof. Older roofs cost more than newer ones because they have already reached their life expectancy. Therefore, in some cases, the cost of repairing old roofs is less expensive than that of replacing them.
2. Leaks
Another factor that should be considered when choosing whether to repair or replace your roof is leaking. Leaks are often unexpected and might not be known in advance. Sometimes, even experienced roofers cannot find the source of a leak. They can also be caused by various things, such as weather damage and other problems that can occur at the roofing installation site. One way to recognize leaks is through moisture measuring devices using ultraviolet light or sonic waves to spot potential leaks before they become a problem. Patching is also an option when the leak is minor. However, it might not be practical for more significant leaks because often, the roof starts falling apart after that.
3. Geographical Area
Roofs in different geographical areas require repairs and replacements at different times. For instance, in some regions, there is a need for roof replacements every 15-20 years. However, in other areas, the life expectancy of roofs can last up to 50 years. Therefore, before you decide whether to repair or replace your roof, you should determine the area where you live to help determine the quality of your home’s roof.
4. Risk Factors
It is essential to know the level of risk of your roof. An important thing to consider is the behavior of your home’s roof. This includes whether leaks are problematic and also whether these leaks are related to the shingles, tiles, or other materials located on the roof and can cause damage if neglected. If your roof is damaged and the shingles are the main problem, you should replace them. If it leaks in other parts of the roof, there might be a severe problem that needs to be addressed, or you might have to replace your entire roof.
5. Material Type
Different materials can be used for roofs, such as tiles and shingles. Shingles can last anywhere from 15-30 years. On the other hand, tiles can last up to 50 years and can also be used in areas with high-speed winds. Similarly, different roof types have various life expectancies. Roofs with clay tiles are better for areas that do not have too much rain or high wind speeds. On the other hand, metal roofs last longer than cement tile roofs, but they might require proper maintenance and insurance if you live in an area with heavy snow or frigid weather.
Conclusion
When deciding whether to repair, patch, or replace your roof, there are many things to consider. If you have any questions, ask a professional roofing contractor. It will help you avoid delays at home and save you money in the long run.
