How To Know Whether To Repair, Patch, or Replace Your Roof
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, because it keeps you safe, dry, and protected from the elements. Unfortunately, roofs can sustain damage, whether from wind, a heavy rain storm, or old age.
Warning Signs of Roof Damage
Roof damage can come in many shapes and sizes. Many times, roof damage is hidden on top of the roof or underneath the shingles, and isn’t noticeable from the ground. However, in some cases, there are obvious signs of roof damage that are visible from your driveway, backyard, or even inside your house. Some of the most common signs of visible roof damage include:
- Cracked or missing shingles
- Moss or algae growth on the roof
- Storm damage
- A sagging roofline
- Leaks during rainstorms
- Water stains on the ceiling or walls of your house
Roof damage is tricky, because it can spread exponentially. If left alone, a small leak can lead to costly repairs or even a full roof replacement very quickly. This is why it is important to call a roofing professional as soon as you notice any signs of damage on your roof. The roofing contractor will assess your roof and explain your options. Roof damage can be fixed in several ways.
Depending on the extent of the damage and the size of a roof, your roofing contractor may recommend a patch or roof repair, or they may recommend a roof replacement.
Reasons to Repair or Patch Your Roof
In many situations, the easiest way to fix your roof is with a patch or repair job. Many problems, ranging from a missing shingle to a leaking chimney, can be solved with a simple repair. There are several reasons to choose a repair over a roof replacement:
Cost
A roof repair is often a more affordable option than a roof replacement, especially if the damage is minor, and not wide-spread. If recommended by your roofing contractor, a roof repair can be a great choice for a cost-conscious homeowner.
Roof Age
If your roof is still in good condition overall, and not nearing the end of its lifespan, a repair may be a good option. A well-done, professional roof repair can help restore your roof, and extend its lifespan by many years. In many cases, roof patches and repairs will last just as long as the undamaged portion of your roof.
The Roof Repair Process
Different types of roofs and roof damage will require different types of repairs. However, there are several steps you can prepare for, no matter what type of roof repair you need.
1.The Inspection
The first step of the process is the inspection. When you schedule an appointment with a roofing contractor, they will come look at the damage, take measurements, and decide the best course of action. In most cases, they will schedule a followup appointment time to come do the repair.
2. The Repair
On the day of the repair, the contractor will get on your roof, remove any damaged areas, and do the repair. Sometimes tearing off the old materials can reveal more damage than initially thought, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for something unexpected to happen.
3. Clean up
After the repair is done, the contractor will clean up their tools and leftover materials, leaving your roof clear of debris, and leave you to enjoy the rest of your day.
Reasons to Replace Your Roof
In many cases, your roofing contractor may recommend a roof replacement as the best option for your home. There are several reasons to choose a roof replacement. Here are the most common:
Extensive damage
The most common cause for a roof replacement is extensive, existing damage to your roof. Whether it’s caused by a storm, a missed leak, or another reason, when the damaged area is large, a new roof is usually necessary. When this happens, the roofing contractor will remove the old roofing materials, and repair any water damage underneath, before building a brand new roof.
An old roof
The second reason to opt for a roof replacement is if your roof is already near the end of its lifespan. Roofs don’t last forever. Their average lifespan ranges anywhere from 20-50 years, depending on the quality of the materials and the caliber of the installation. As the roof reaches the end of its life, it becomes more susceptible to leaks, storms, and other environmental stressors. At some point, it will need to be replaced. In this situation, a roof replacement is probably the best way to restore your roof and keep your home safe, dry, and protected.
Peace of mind
High quality roofing materials are designed to last decades. When you choose a roof replacement, you not only get a brand new roof, and possibly a warranty to go with it, but you also get the peace of mind that your home will be safe and protected for years to come.
The Roof Replacement Process
If your home needs a roof replacement, there are several steps of the process you will go through:
1. The inspection
The first step of the process is the roof inspection. This gives the roofing contractor the chance to look at the damage, take measurements, and determine the best materials to use. This appointment also gives you the chance to ask any questions you have, and make sure you feel confident with your choice of roofing contractor. After the appointment, you will sign a contract and schedule a day for the work to be done.
2. Tear-off
On the day of your roof replacement, the crew will arrive and begin tearing off your old roof. Be prepared for this part of the process to be messy and loud.
3. Installation
After the old roofing materials are gone, the crew will install your new roof. Roofs are made up of many materials that work together to protect your roof. In addition to shingles, they will install drip edge, underlayment, flashing, as well as other protective elements. Once the installation is finished, the crew will clean up their tools and materials, and leave you to enjoy your new roof.
How To Choose The Right Roofing Contractor
Choosing the right roofing contractor is one of the most important decisions when you need to repair or replace your roof. There are several steps you can take to help you identify the best roofing contractor for your needs:
Ask for recommendations
The best way to find a roofing contractor is by word of mouth. Check with your family, friends, neighbors, or co-workers to see if they have worked with any local roofing companies, and what their experience was like. Roof repairs and replacements are common home repairs, so the chances are, someone you know and trust may have a recommendation.
Read reviews
It is also a good idea to go online and read the reviews left about each roofing contractor you are considering. Many roofing companies feature reviews on their website and social media platforms, but you should look beyond those reviews. Roofing company reviews on third-party review sites are often the most objective, and reflective of the customer experience the company provides. Some common review sites include Google Reviews, Angi, HomeAdvisor, The Better Business Bureau, and Yelp.
Schedule multiple estimate appointments
Once you narrow down your list of roofing companies to a few good options, it’s time to schedule estimate appointments. It’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with each company you are considering. These appointments will give you the chance to ask any questions you have, and get a price quote from each company. After you follow these steps, select the company that you feel most comfortable trusting your roof with. Be sure to follow their recommendation as to whether you should patch, repair or replace your roof.
Schedule A Free Estimate Today
Repairing or replacing your roof is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. The best way to know which option you should choose is to schedule an inspection with a professional roofing contractor. When you schedule a free estimate with Cenvar Roofing, a qualified representative with years of experience diagnosing roofing problems will come look at your roof. Schedule your free appointment today, and someone will be in touch with you shortly.
