Roofs are a linchpin in architecture and home design. Most of the time, they are not flashy, but you would definitely notice if there is something wrong with them such as having loose shingles. In anything, it is always good to be prepared rather than be repairing.
Sometimes, though, it might be a better option to patch sections up rather than getting the entirety of it redone. You have plenty to consider; repairing versus replacing comes down to what type of roof you own, the extent of the damage, and the age of your roof.
Older is not always better
For roofs, in particular, this is true. While some materials are built to last a lifetime, others are not as durable. Asphalt roofs, for example, are cheap but can break down easily when not cared for. They can last for up to a couple of decades, but usually have a life span of around 10 years. In some cases, like in roofs using composite shingles, the material is more durable. With this type of roof you can spot-replace weak portions, so replacing is definitely your option here.
However, because roofs are exposed to the elements, they can fade into a color that does not match new tiles. If you choose to replace your shingles, you have to note that sometimes the repairs you need to make are on an area of the roof that is exposed to the street.
You might want a uniform color for your roof, so this may be a deal-breaker for you. Or maybe you are not as particular, so you might be okay with this type of repairs. Decide what you prioritize and go from there.
Covering the entire roof
If you or your neighborhood are particular about how homes look from the street, a quick solution is putting another roof over your existing one. This one provides a short-term solution, and maintain the look of your home.
However, it does not address the root cause of the problem; that is, the leaking shingles or portions. This will only exacerbate in time. Add to this the increased weight of the roof, and you might need more repairs in the long run.
In the event of a total renovation, pulling two layers of shingles off would be twice the labor, and might cost more. It also voids the manufacturer’s warranty on both sets. If the top layer of shingles spring leaks, you will have to do any repair work yourself; a more difficult task now that you’re trying to determine which layer is damaged, and where.
Always audit after a calamity
If you were recently hit by a storm, a hurricane, or a tornado, one of the first things you should check is your home’s structural integrity. This goes beyond the aesthetics of your house; a recent calamity might have compromised your beams, or load-bearing pillars, or displaced sections of the roof. In cases like these, it is always recommended to do a full replacement.
In the event of extensive water damage, you should also consider having your roof replaced. Sometimes water damage is not from a storm, but from the regular occurrence of storms over the years. If you have brown spots on the ceiling, moldy walls, or peeling paint, have your roof assessed for water damage and see if you can get it replaced.
In Conclusion
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. Because it is built to last, we often do not give it a second thought. However, there are instances when even roofs need to be replaced or repaired. Determining which one you need means taking stock of your priorities, the extent of the damage, and how much it will cost to replace versus repair.
If you’re looking for professional roofing contractors in San Diego to help you repair your rickety roof, get in touch with us today to see how we can help.