Your roof is showing some wear and tear, and you’re trying to decide: should you repair or replace your roof? It’s not an easy choice, we know. A new roof is a big investment, but if your current roof is really on its last legs, a replacement may be necessary to avoid leaks or other damage.
As with many home improvement decisions, there are pros and cons to consider for both options. We’re here to walk you through them so you can determine whether repair or replacement is the smartest choice for your home and budget.
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The Age of the Roof
If your roof is pushing 15-20 years old, it’s probably time for a replacement. At this age, repairs just won’t cut it, and you’ll likely face issues again soon.
A new roof means peace of mind that you won’t have surprise leaks or water damage for years to come. Replacement also allows you to upgrade to an energy-efficient and durable material like asphalt or metal.
While repairs seem cheaper in the short term, replacement is often the smarter long-term investment. Why shell out for repairs every couple of years when a new roof can last decades? Talk to a pro about replacement – your wallet and home value will thank you.
The Extent of the Damage
The amount of damage to your roof will determine whether repair or replacement is the smarter option. If only a few shingles blew off or a small area was damaged, a repair may be enough to fix the problem without breaking the bank.
But if water seeped under the waterproof membrane or the wood decking below was exposed, replacement is probably your best bet. Extensive damage means higher repair costs, and there could be underlying issues that led to the damage in the first place. Replacing the roof allows you to identify and fix these issues to prevent future problems.
The Type of Roof
The type of roofing material you have plays a big role in whether repairing or replacing makes more sense. For example, if you have a slate roof that can last 100 years or more, fixing any damage is probably better than replacing the whole thing. You can replace individual slate tiles easily, and it doesn’t require much work.
That said, if the damage comes from the roof structure failing or water ruining the deck, replacing the roof may still be better, even if you can reuse the slate tiles. For other roof types, age becomes a bigger factor.
Long-Term Plans
If you plan to stay in your home for the long haul, replacing your roof may be the smarter choice. A new roof can last 20-30 years, even up to 50 years for high-quality materials.
While a roof replacement seems expensive up front, the cost is spread over its lifetime. Over time, energy efficiency improvements can save on utility bills. Plus, an aging roof may need repairs that cost as much as a replacement.
For maximum home value, a new roof in good condition is appealing to buyers. They know the roof won’t need replacement or repair anytime soon. If selling is in your future, a new roof could be a worthwhile investment.
Budget
When it comes to budget, replacing your roof typically costs more upfront than a repair. However, replacement may save you money in the long run.
Repairing sections of an aging roof often ends up costing more per square foot. You miss out on bulk discounts for materials, and labor costs can be high. In contrast, a full replacement allows roofers to work efficiently, and you benefit from lower overall costs.
A replacement also allows a full assessment of any damage to your roof deck or framing. Fixing structural issues during replacement helps ensure your new roof lasts as long as possible.
Still Indecisive? Reach Out to Atlanta Roofing
Still unsure whether to repair or replace your roof? The expert roofers at Atlanta Roofing can help. Call us today at 404-737-7179 for a free quote.
Our roofing contractors will thoroughly evaluate your roof’s condition. We offer repair services for shingles, flashing, fascia, and carpentry. If a full replacement is needed, we provide affordable, high-quality installations for shingle, metal, tile, and flat roofs.
With over 20 years of experience, Atlanta Roofing is the team you can trust for an honest assessment and fair pricing. Don’t delay – call now to schedule your free estimate!