Roof Repair vs. Replacement: Which One Does Yours Need?

Old roof teardownMonsoons are here! And if you've noticed any unwelcome leaks, you're probably wondering if a full re-roof is in your future, or if a simple fix will get you by. Both options ultimately achieve the goal of correcting the issue and stopping the leaks, but which one is the right solution for your home?

This is a good question as there are various factors and considerations that go into this decision. You'll want to consider your roof's age, your budget, and how long you'll be in the home, to name a few.

These three main considerations will help you determine whether a repair or a new roof is the right path forward. We dive into these and the pros and cons of each below. And if you're still unsure when it comes to repair vs. replace, contact us for a free, no-obligation roof evaluation.

 

Roof Age

This is probably the most important factor when deciding between repairing or replacing your roof. If your roof is having issues and is at the end of its lifetime, our general recommendation would be to invest in a new roof rather than put money into a repair, only to have another age-related issue pop up a few months down the road. 

If your roof is relatively new with a good amount of years left in it, repairing it can help you get the maximum value out of it. It will also have a positive environmental impact since the materials will get maximum use, rather than being discarded in a landfill before their time.

The type of material your roof is made of also plays into whether or not it's at the end of its run. Some materials can last 50+ years while others come in around the 20-25 year mark. In most cases it's the underlayment that ages first. Read our blog about which roofing materials last longest in Arizona to see what yours is estimated at.

 

Roof Budget

What you're comfortably able to spend on your roof right now also plays a part in whether you should get a roof repair or replacement. If a completely new roof isn't in your budget at the moment, look into repairs and at least get those leaks under control before they cause additional damage. Depending on the severity of your roof's issue, a qualified roofing contractor might just be able to fix it and buy you enough time to safely save for a new roof. 

If you can afford a roof replacement and your roofing contractor recommends one, we would suggest following their advice. This will ensure no future problems arise, which can ultimately save you moneynot to mention time and headachessince you won't be spending it on continuous repairs. Also, new roofs generally come with a warranty on both materials and workmanship. Wouldn't that be nice? 

 

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Estimated Home Ownership Length

Do you think you're in your forever home, or are you looking to move within the next couple of years? If you'll be in your home for a long period of time, making a longer-term investment in your roof is typically a wise decision. Not only will this offer you peace of mind, but with today's innovation in roofing materials, you might never have to replace or repair it again!

If you are looking to move soon, simply repairing what's damaged could be a better choice depending on how much your roof in its current state detracts from the sale of your home. Some sellers find it hard to sell their home with an old roof, so if that is the case for you, a replacement might be your only option. Having a new roof is very marketable if you decide to sell, and may even net you a better offer because the buyers know that a major expense is already out of the way. 

 

Pros and Cons of Roof Repairs

Repairing your roof instead of replacing it entirely has its own plusses and minuses. We'll summarize these important considerations below.

Get more life out of your roof

Younger roofs would do well with a repair depending on the severity of the issue. Repairing instead of replacing will maximize the money and time left in your current roof. 

Quicker and more affordable

Since repairs are smaller than installing a whole new roof, choosing to repair yours results in a more affordable final cost and a quicker work timeline.

Better for the environment

It's always sad to see a salvageable roof end up in a landfill. If your roof is in otherwise good shape, just fix it the problem and avoid the unnecessary waste.

Can be hard to match shingle and color tile

Depending on the age of your roof and the current materials on it, it might be challenging to get a good match on replacement tiles or shingles.

Specialized work

Roof repairs are a specialized type of work. Hiring an unqualified roofing contractor to work on yours could leave you with more issues down the road than you originally had. A qualified roofing contractor will be able to deliver and lasting repair, so be sure to do your research.

 

Pros and Cons of Roof Replacement

Although a roof replacement might sound intimidating, it comes with its own set of benefits and detractions.

Can help increase curb appeal

One of the first things people notice about homes is the roof. If your current roof is in rough shape, replacing it could help increase your home's curb appeal - which is especially important if you're looking to sell.

Increases home value

Putting money into a brand new roof will help raise the overall value of your home. As with the point above, this can come in useful when you go to sell your home, especially if the warranty is transferrable to the new owners. 

You'll rest easy

With a roof replacement, you'll have peace of mind that your entire roof is healthy and will last for decades. You won't lose sleep when the next storm rolls through.

More expensive and longer process

The biggest con is quite obvious: it costs more to replace a roof rather than repair it. This process is also a bit longer. Depending on the size of your roof and materials, tearing off your old roof and installing a new one could take anywhere between 2-5 days in most cases.

 

 

If you're still unsure whether or not you need a roof repair or a roof replacement, contact us for a free, no-obligation roof evaluation. We'll give you an honest assessment and a few options for a solution.

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