A failing roof is extremely stressful. It can lead you to worry that your home may be damaged, in addition to your roof. You know that you’ll need to get the problem corrected quickly. However, you’ll also need to decide if you simply need to repair your roof or a replacement.
To find the answer, you will need to consider several factors, including the roof’s age and the damage’s extent.
The Age of Your Roof
The first thing you should consider is the age of your roof. If your roof is nearing the end of its life, roof replacement makes sense. If your roof is expected to last many more years, repair may be the best option.
Generally, roofs will last 25 to 50 years. This is a wide range, but we can narrow it down based on your roof type.
Shingle Roofs
Shingle roofs can last 10-50 years, depending on your type of shingles. Standard three-tab asphalt shingles have the shortest lifespan of 10-15 years. Architectural shingles and wood shingles can last from 25-50 years. Composite shingles last longer, with a lifespan of 40-50 years.
Tile roofs, including clay, concrete, and slate tiles, are expected to last for 50 years or more, making them the longest-lasting type of shingle roof. This drastically reduces the chance that you will have to worry about getting a roof replacement for many years to come.
Metal Roofs
Standing seam metal roofs have seams that allow the metal panels to expand and retract. This type of roof should last at least 30 years, with most expected to last 50 years. This means you will not have to worry about a roof replacement for several decades to come with this option.
Screw-down metal roofs are less expensive, but they aren’t as durable. This type of roof lasts 20-30 years.
The Extent of the Damage
The next factor you should consider is the extent of the damage. If a small area is damaged, repairing the roof makes sense. However, if the damage is extensive or covers a large area, you may find repairs nearly as expensive as replacing your roof.
The Condition of the Roof
You should also consider the condition of your roof overall. Is your roof in good condition besides the damaged area, or are there structural concerns throughout the roof? It’s essential to look beyond the immediate damage and consider how well your roof will hold up in the future.
Urgency of Repairs
Sometimes, you can take the time to get a roof replacement. However, there are situations where a quick repair is the best option to avoid further damage. If your roof is damaged and there’s a significant storm coming, the best course of action may be to repair the current damage. This prevents the wind and water from causing more damage to your roof and other areas of your home.
Your Future Plans
Another factor you will need to consider is your plans for the future. Are you planning on selling your home in the next few years? You may want to replace your roof to increase its resale value. However, you may not want to spend the extra money if your current roof is stable.
On the other hand, if you plan on being in your home for many years, a new roof can be a great investment. You may also consider upgrading your roof to increase its performance and durability because you’ll benefit for many years to come.
Energy Efficiency
A roof replacement can improve your home’s energy efficiency if you have an older roof. You may be surprised that the energy efficiency of your roof is one of the most significant factors in your home’s overall energy use.
Some roofs are known as “cool roofs” because the material they are made from reflects most of the heat from the sun. This type of roof can stay up to 50 degrees cooler than traditional roofs, which will make it less expensive to cool your home.
Today, you can find metal roofs, tile roofs, and traditional asphalt shingles with an Energy Star rating. These cool roofs can save you up to 35% on your electricity bill. Over the years, they may pay for themselves in energy savings.
If you plan to be in your home for many years or take environmental stewardship seriously, you should consider an energy-efficient replacement roof.
Cost
The cost is the final thing you should consider when deciding between roof repair or roof replacement. Generally, replacing your roof will cost more than repairing it, at least in the short term.
However, in some cases, it can be just as expensive, or even more so, over time. You may find yourself repairing damage to one area, and then another area, and another.
Replacing a roof also comes with discounts because you are buying in bulk. You won’t get these discounts on small repairs.
Another hidden cost can be the extent of the damage. What seems like a small repair can add up if there’s more damage than initially thought.
Should You Consider Reroofing?
If you have a traditional shingle roof, reproofing can seem like a perfect middle ground between repairing and replacing your roof. New shingles are installed without removing the old shingles.
This is faster and less expensive than a roof replacement, and the fresh shingles give you the appearance of a new roof.
However, there are some critical drawbacks. Building codes in many areas prevent homeowners from adding more than two layers of shingles because of the weight they add. If your roof has already been reroofed, reroofing isn’t an option for you.
Another issue is that your roofer can’t identify or repair any damage below the current shingles. Without removing the shingles, the structural layers aren’t visible. If there’s underlying damage, this could be costly later on.
Lastly, it can affect or even void the warranty on the new shingles because they will not last as long when used for reroofing.
Putting It All Together
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when deciding between repairing your roof or getting a roof replacement. In addition to weighing these factors yourself, speaking with a professional is a great idea. Their years of experience allow them to give you sound advice on which option is the best for your situation.
Roof Repair or Replacement with Freeman Exteriors
At Freeman Exteriors, we offer roof repair and roof replacement. We can evaluate your roof and help you decide which option is best for your situation. We will also provide you with a free estimate. If you need roof repair or replacement in Champaign, IL, contact us today at 217-355-5447.
