When your roof shows signs of damage, knowing whether you need repairs done or a total replacement can be difficult. You might have a leak in your roof, some missing shingles, or damaged flashing. In order for your roof to provide your home interior with protection from rain, snow, wind, pests, and other problems, it needs to be in good condition.
You might not be able to tell if you’re going to need repairs or a replacement on your own. However, there are a few factors to consider when trying to determine whether you need a roof replacement or a repair. The following factors can help you get an idea of what type of roofing work you might need, but be sure to call in the professionals for an accurate assessment.
1. Roofing Material Quality
The quality of your roofing materials can affect whether you need roof repairs or a replacement. Lower quality materials are more vulnerable to damage from weather, wear and tear, and pests. For example, low-quality asphalt shingles might break down more easily than high-quality asphalt shingles.
The quality of smaller components used in roofing, such as adhesives and nails, can also have an impact on whether you need a replacement or repairs. If lower-quality components were used, roofers might be able to replace them with higher-quality components when doing repairs. If your roof also has low-quality shingles or tiles, having a roof replacement done might be a better option.
2. Roof Installation Quality
How your roof was installed can determine if you should have roof repairs or a replacement done. If your roof was installed properly, you should just need repairs done for minor problems. Proper roof installation helps lower the risk of damage over the years.
A poor-quality roof installation can end up leading to extensive or frequent problems. In some cases, roofers might recommend having a roof replacement done if poor installation is causing several problems. Otherwise, you might need roof repairs done often over the years. Replacing a poorly installed roof with an expertly installed one can help prevent these problems from occurring.
3. Weather Exposure
Exposure to adverse weather conditions throughout the years can take a serious toll on your roof. Snowstorms, ice storms, downpours, and high winds can cause damage to your roof and shorten its lifespan. For example, heavy snow can weaken your roof, while high winds can tear shingles off or fling debris onto your roof.
Extreme cold and hot temperatures, as well as exposure to the sun’s UV rays, can also cause damage to your roof. You might need repairs if weather damage has been minimal or infrequent over the years. However, severe or frequent damage or deterioration due to weather conditions can mean you need a roof replacement.
4. Roof Age
Even a roof made with high-quality materials and properly installed won’t last forever. If your roof is nearing its expected life span, you might be better off having a roof replacement done. As roofs get older, they can become more prone to being damaged and needing repairs. Instead of having frequent roof repairs done, you can have a whole new roof installed to provide your home with the best protection from the elements.
If your roof is newer, roof repairs might be all you need to have done. Knowing roughly how long different types of roofs last can help. For example, asphalt shingle roofs can last between 15 and 30 years, while metal roofs can last up to 70 years. Clay tile roofs can last up to 100 years, and slate tile roofs can last even longer.
Talk to Local Roofers
Although material quality, installation quality, roof age, and weather exposure can help you get a general idea of whether you’ll need repairs or a replacement, it’s always best to turn to roofing professionals. Have local roofers evaluate your roof damage, so they can determine if you’ll need a whole new roof or some repairs done. Local roofers will consider all factors when deciding which type of roofing work would be best in your situation.
If you need repairs, your roofers can perform these in order to get your roof back in good shape. If you end up needing a roof replacement, you can depend on your roofers to handle this kind of work. Whether you need roof repairs or a roof replacement, make sure you have experienced and dependable local roofers handle it.
If your roof has damage, please contact Titan Siding and Roofing. Our expert roofers in the Greater Cincinnati area can evaluate your roof and perform repairs or a roof replacement as needed. We can help ensure your home has a reliable roof on it to protect you and your family from the elements.
