Table Of Content:
- What is the distinction? Roofing Repair vs. Replacement
- The Benefits and Drawbacks of Roof Repair
- What to Look for When Hiring a Roofing Contractor
Is it required to replace the roof, or would a minor repair suffice? Here are your alternatives, along with the benefits and drawbacks of each, as well as why roofing replacement may be the best decision.
In this post, you’ll learn about your alternatives, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and why, in most circumstances, a skilled roofer will recommend a roof replacement.
We’ll start with a quick review of vocabulary — what different words used by roofers imply — and then go over the benefits and cons of your alternatives.
What is the distinction? Roofing Repair vs. Replacement
What exactly is roofing replacement?
Roof replacement entails removing all the old shingles, felt paper, and moisture barriers and replacing them with new materials. It could also entail repairing or replacing the deck or any other damage discovered when removing the old roof.
What is the difference between roof repair and roof replacement?
Roof repairs are limited to the damaged parts of the roof. Repairing may appear to be a suitable alternative if the damaged regions are not extensive. Even though the damaged section is modest, it may be necessary to replace the entire roof.
You may also be aware of two additional repair choices. When the roof damage affects more than one or two regions, these are occasionally given as cost-effective solutions: partial replacement and re-roofing.
When the damage is more severe and partial replacement is often performed, it is still confined to only one or two parts of the roof.
Partially replacing shingles entails removing all of the old shingles from an entire portion or side. The old roof is then integrated with the new roof at the ridges or valleys.
New shingles rarely match the old ones. So the major objective here is to avoid the patchwork effect that can occur when only a few damaged or missing shingles are repaired.
Simply put, re-roofing is the addition of a new layer of shingles on top of the old. Because it does not replace the original shingles, it might legally be called a repair.
Each of these options for dealing with roof damage has pros and cons. So, let’s take a quick look at the advantages and disadvantages of repairing and replacing your roof.
The Benefits of Roof Repair
Some homeowners mistake ignoring roof problems until there is enough damage to warrant calling a roofer. However, the best time to deal with roof damage is as soon as you notice it.
Delays can lead to more serious issues. Water can get behind the flashing or beneath the shingles, and wind can lift even more shingles if shingles are missing or broken.
If left untreated, leaks into the attic or the house’s interior can cause thousands of dollars in damage.
Once you’ve discovered any damage to your roof, it might be complicated to decide whether to repair or replace it. (These are the eight aspects on which you should concentrate.)
When weighing the benefits and drawbacks of fixing your roof, four factors should be considered: the cost, the time needed, the functionality, and the aesthetics.
Here are the advantages and cons of roof repair.
- Cost: If the damage is modest or limited to a small area, repairing your roof may be less expensive than replacing it.
- Time: Repairing your roof takes less time than replacing it, and this is especially crucial if the roof is exposed and heavy weather is forecast.
- While a repair will not increase the life of your roof beyond its initial life expectancy, it may assist the roof in reaching its full lifespan. Repairing damage as soon as possible helps to avoid the need for more extensive repairs later on.
- Aesthetics: Roof damage can expose a roof to the elements and detract from the appearance of a home. Repairing the roof not only protects it from the elements but also improves the street’s appearance.
What to Look for When Hiring a Roofing Contractor
There are two sorts of roofing contractors to consider when you’re ready to hire: independent contractors and roofing businesses. Always compare bids to find the best deal, and verify roofer reviews, references, and credentials.
For speedy repairs, independent roofing contractors might be useful. Large jobs, such as replacing your old roof, may take longer to complete because they work independently or with subcontractors. They may, however, specialize in a specific style. Hiring a single person can be risky, but it ensures that you’ll see and work with the same person throughout the project.
Roofing firms are more likely to complete major tasks faster, have manufacturer warranties on their work, give discounts or free consultations, and deal with a wider range of materials. However, each phase of the project may not have the same point of contact.
