A
damaged roof can lead to leaks, water damage and even structural
problems. When faced with roof damage, homeowners usually decide
whether to repair the damage or replace the entire roof, considering
the costs, amount of time and even potential return on investment for
either project. While it would be convenient to have a
straightforward guide to making this decision, the truth is the
course of action for dealing with roof damage depends on various
factors and is unique to each situation. Here are some typical
scenarios to help you make a sound choice about your home. The extent
of the damage, the roof’s age, the materials used, and the roof’s
overall condition are all factors to consider. A professional
inspection is required to assess the damage and recommend the best
action.
Assessing
Roof Damage
The
first step in deciding between roof repair and replacement is to
assess the damage. This may seem as simple as climbing your roof to
scope the situation. However, we don’t anticipate the average
person knowing everything to look for. Hiring a professional team to
get a full picture of the damage and an accurate report on action
plans and anticipated costs is important.
Remember
that spotting potential problems before they become major issues is
key to avoiding big expenses for your roof. Regular maintenance, such
as cleaning
gutters,
checking for damage, and fixing small problems as they arise, can
help extend the life of your roof and keep it from deteriorating
needs for costly repairs or replacements. Of course, unavoidable
situations can cause roof damage – two of the most common being
storms and hail.
Hail
Damage Roof Repair
Hailstorms
can cause extensive damage to your roof – they can crack, dent, or
break shingles, leading to leaks and other issues. In some cases,
repairs may be sufficient to address the damage, while a total
replacement might be necessary at other times. During an inspection,
professionals will look at factors such as the age of your roof, the
extent of the damage and the quality of the materials used to
determine the best course of action.
Storm
Damage Roof Repair
Storm
damage is another common cause of roof damage. High winds and heavy
rains can tear off shingles, cause leaks, and even lead to structural
damage. As with hail damage, whether a repair or replacement is
needed will depend on factors unique to your home: the roof’s age and
the materials’ quality.
Repair
vs. Replacement: Factors to Consider
To
determine if your damaged roof can be repaired or needs to be
replaced, a professional roofing team will consider the following
factors in their recommendation:
-
Types
of damage:
Some types of damage, such as cracks or broken shingles, can be
repaired fairly easily, while others, such as severe water damage or
rot, might require a full replacement. -
Age
of the roof:
Roofs typically last 20-30 years, depending on the materials used.
If your roof is nearing the end of its life, a replacement might be
more cost-effective in the long run. -
Extent
of damage:
Minor damage, such as a few missing shingles, can usually be
repaired. However, a replacement might be necessary if a large
portion of your roof is damaged. -
Quality
of materials:
Higher-quality materials are more durable and better able to
withstand damage. If your roof is made of low-quality materials, a
replacement with better materials might be a wise investment. -
Cost:
Compare repairing the damage versus replacing the entire roof. While
repairs might be cheaper in the short term, a replacement might save
you money in the long run by preventing future issues.
It
is also critical to consider your long-term goals for your home.
Investing in a full roof replacement might not make sense if you plan
to sell your home soon. On the other hand, if you plan to live in
your home for many more years, a full replacement might be the best
option to ensure the durability and security of your home.
The
decision between roof
repair and replacement
is complex and depends on many factors. If you’re trying to determine
if your damaged roof can be repaired or needs to be replaced, we can
help. Our team of professionals has been repairing and replacing
roofs in the Atlanta area since 1995. Our exceptional service and
pinpoint attention to detail will help you navigate the best course
of action for your home.
Contact
our team today
to get started.