When it comes to roofing, one of the trickiest decisions is when to repair and when to replace. No one wants to pay for a completely new roof if the existing roof will hold up for a few more years, and no one wants to deal with water damage to a home because the roof was not replaced when it should have been.
What to Consider
There are several factors that our experts consider when advising homeowners about the extent of a roof repair job. In most cases, a roof will provide subtle clues that will help us know whether patching it will be more cost-effective in the long term than replacing, or vice versa.
- Missing or damaged shingles. If shingles are curled, split, torn or altogether missing, we’ll look at how far the damage extends. If it’s a few shingles, a simple repair will do. If more than one-third of the roof has been damaged, a new roof may make more sense.
- Storm damage. If the damage was caused by a recent severe weather event such as a hailstorm or tornado, consider replacing the entire roof. Often there is a level of damage that extends below the surface. This is the time to get your homeowner’s insurance company involved; you may have insurance coverage that will cover part or all of the cost.
- Moisture infiltration. Discoloration of walls and brown stains on the ceilings are a clue that you may have a roof leak. If the leak is small, a minor repair may be all you need. Damaged or soft underlayment may require a complete roof replacement.
- Age. Age may be the deciding factor on whether you repair or replace. Asphalt shingles, the most commonly used roofing material, typically last somewhere around 20 years, although premium varieties can last longer.
In general, if the repairs to your roof will be extensive or costly, it may make sense to spend that repair money on a replacement. If you are unsure what your roof needs, Muth & Company is here to help. After a thorough inspection, we will give you an honest assessment and cost projections. Contact us today at (614) 682-3060 to schedule a free estimate with the #1 Columbus, Ohio, roofing company!