If you’ve noticed stray shingles in your yard or you look at your roof and can see the damage, you might wonder if you need roof repair or a roof replacement.
Most homeowners hope and pray it’s just a repair because a new roof is a hefty investment. Sometimes, though, roof repair is the best and more cost-effective option in the long run.
Here’s how to tell.
What’s your Roof’s Age?
The age of your roof can tell you everything you must know. If it’s pretty new, roof repair might be perfectly fine.
If it’s nearing the end of its useful life, it might be more cost-effective to repair your roof rather than replace it. Repairing a roof that doesn’t have much life left can be a lot like throwing money out the window. You might not buy much more time on your roof’s life and will need to replace it anyway.
Replacing it now can save you money on roof repair, plus you’ll earn other benefits from having a new roof.
How Bad is the Damage?
The extent of the damage determines whether you should have roof repair or replacement too. If it’s an isolated incident that only affected a small part of your roof, repair may be just fine.
For example, if there was storm damage and a small area of shingles was affected. You can likely have that area fixed. Just keep in mind that sometimes it’s hard to match shingle color after your roof has been on your home for a while.
If the damage affects the entire roof and/or puts your home at risk for water damage, then a roof replacement may be the best option. You’ll save money by not having other issues to deal with inside the home, such as mold or mildew growth.
Are you Looking to Change the Home’s Appearance?
Your roof sets the tone for your home’s aesthetic appeal. A new roof can really change the look of a home, especially if you just got new siding. While a new roof can feel like an incredible cost, think of it as an investment.
When you move, whether in a few months or a few years, a newer roof will increase your home’s value. When buyers look at homes, one of the key areas they look is the roof. They want to know its age and condition. Buyers are less likely to buy a home that has an older roof or a roof with issues.
A new roof can also increase the home’s value, which is why it’s an investment. You’ll get some of the money back that you invested in the roof. While it’s not a dollar-for-dollar return, it’s still a decent return.
Do you Want to Increase your Home’s Energy Efficiency?
If your roof is on the older end, you might not have the most energy efficiency in your home. This could mean higher utility bills and a more uncomfortable home.
Today’s roofing materials are much more energy efficient and help you lower your utility bills. By reflecting sunlight away from your home, it will be easier to keep your home cool in the summer, reducing the need for excessive use of your A/C.
Roof Repair and Replacement Provide Peace of Mind
Knowing that your roof is in good condition, whether via repair or replacement, can give you peace of mind. If you’ll be away from home, you don’t have to worry about checking home often to see if the weather turned and your home is at risk of water damage.
You’ll also feel better knowing your home’s value is positively affected and that it might be easier to sell your home with a roof that’s properly maintained and/or recently replaced.
Final Thoughts
When deciding between roof repair and roof replacement, you have some decisions to make. Sometimes, it’s a no-brainer because the damage is so severe, and replacement is required. Other times, though, roof repair can be enough to buy you a few more years with your roof.
At Roof Joker, we offer a free evaluation to tell you what our contractors think about the condition of your roof and what’s best. Our contractors are 100% honest and transparent, telling you the good and bad of each option so you can decide which way you’d like to go.
Contact us today at (512) 910-3610 to see how we can help you!