Depending on the roof type, your roof may last anywhere from 15 to 50 years without needing repair or replacement. But this isn’t always guaranteed because weather, age and the quality of your installation can all affect the lifespan of a roof. Whenever you’re faced with a roof issue, it’s important to consider both repair and replacement options.
Here are a few points to keep in mind when deciding between roof repair or replacement:
1. Age:
You should consider the age of your roof when making a decision. If your roof is more than 20 years old, it could be time for a full replacement to ensure that you don’t have any future issues. Even if there are just minor signs of wear and tear, replacing the entire roof may be worth it in the long run. Different roofs last different amounts of time as follows:
- Asphalt shingle/composition roofs last about 20 years
- Fiber cement shingles last about 25 years
- Wood shake roofs last about 30 years
- Tile, copper, and slate roofs can last more than 50 years
2. Severity of Roof Damage:
Some of the side effects you need to constantly monitor include sheathing, rotting of frames, accumulation of mold, ceiling damage, and wet insulation. In some cases with these side effects, a roof repair may be all you need. But if the damage is too severe and widespread, roof replacement may be your best option. If you notice significant signs of wear, such as peeling shingles or worn-out tiles, then you may need a new roof. If the roof has suffered from leaks, rot, or extreme weather conditions, a replacement will likely be necessary.
3. Cost:
Cost is always an important factor when deciding between roof repair and replacement. In many cases, a repair is less expensive than a full replacement. However, if the damage to your roof is extensive, then it may be cheapest in the long run to replace the entire roof. Additionally, depending on the type of materials and design used for your roof repair, you may not get as much life out of it as you would with an entirely new roof.
4. Aesthetics Vs Structural Damage
There are generally two types of roof damage: aesthetic and structural. Aesthetic damage is cosmetic, meaning it doesn’t affect the integrity or strength of your roof. Examples include broken or missing shingles, discoloration, mold, etc. Structural damage affects the structural integrity of your roof and can lead to leaks and other issues if not repaired quickly. If you have extensive structural damage, a roof replacement may be the best option.
5. Environmental Factors
Another important factor is the environment of your home or building. For example, if you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall and high winds, it’s more likely that you’ll need to replace your roof more frequently than someone who lives in an area with mild weather conditions. You’re also more likely to need to replace your roof sooner if you live in an area that experiences extreme temperatures. This is because extreme temperatures can cause the materials in your roof to expand and contract, leading to more wear and tear.
6. How Long You Intend to Live in Your House
Sometimes, it’s not just the condition of your roof that you need to take into consideration, but also how long you plan on staying in your house. If you don’t plan on living in the house for much longer, then a simple repair may be more cost-effective and make more sense. On the other hand, if you’re planning on living in your home for many more years, then you may want to consider investing in a roof replacement.
7. The Affected Area
Where the roof damage is located and the size of the area that needs to be repaired or replaced will also play an important role in helping you decide between a roof repair or replacement. If the affected area is small, it may just need some minor repairs; however, larger areas may require more extensive work and/or a complete roof replacement.
Talk to One of Our Experienced Roofers at Titan Restoration
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home or building, so you should always make sure it’s in good condition. If you’re not sure if you need to repair or replace your roof, talk to one of our experienced roofers at Titan Restoration today. We can assess the condition of your roof and provide you with the best solution to ensure your roof protects you and your family now and in the future. We specialize in all types of roof repair and replacement projects, so you can be sure you’re getting expert advice and services when you work with us. Contact us today for more information about our services or to get started on a project!
