Roofing questions: Repair or replace?

01 Nov Roofing questions: Repair or replace?

A new roof is a large investment and many people are anxious about the process. However, there are many times when repairs aren’t enough and a new roof makes more sense for your pocketbook and the structural integrity of your home. Not sure if it’s time? A few things to take into consideration before calling a roofing contractor:

What is the physical appearance of the roof?

Are there missing shingles? Do shingles appear discolored or splotchy? Are any curled or cracked? Is there cracked caulk or rust spots on your roof’s flashing? All of these can be indications that some sort of service is required. Discolored shingles can show that the granules on the surface are being worn away. Curled and cracked shingles can occur after your roof is damaged by winter ice dams.

Do you have signs of leaks?

Early signs of leaks can include peeling paint on the underside of your roof’s overhangs, darkening on your ceilings and damp areas around fireplaces. By acting soon, you can get the repair done while a small patch is still enough to do the job.

How old is the roof?

Even a high quality roof does not last forever. If the roof is 20 years or older and you are experiencing leaks, it will almost certainly have to be replaced. Newer roofs, depending on the level of damage, may be able to be patched.

Where is the damage on the roof?

When a patch is added to a roof, there will usually be a contast in color. Because of this, it is usually worth replacing the roof if the damaged area is large or in the front of the house.

Has a second layer of roofing tiles been added?

In some cases, new shingles are layered over old ones, usually to cut down on labor costs. However, it is not recommended that you go more than two layers, as this can add to the weight of your roof. Additionally, a second layer of roofing can cut down the life of a roof from an average of 20 years to around 15.

What are the benefits of a new roof for you?

If you have an older roof on your home, a new roof can be a big improvement. A new roof may provide additional insulation, saving on heating and cooling costs. It can also give you a chance to update your house and give it a fresh look.

Eventually, every roof will wear out and need to be replaced. By doing regular maintenance and repairs before it is time to do a full replacement, you can stretch out the life and save a significant amount of money. However, it’s important not to wait too long, as this can lead to leaks, water damage and higher costs.

Aspen Exterior Company has been providing roofing services in the Palatine area since 1978. Contact us today to learn whether your roof needs a repair or whether it is time for a replacement.