Roofing Repairs vs. Replacements: What Should You Do?

You should have in mind that when it comes to your household, it is crucial to think about prevention before a significant problem happens.

In other words, you have to conduct regular inspections and maintenance so that you can reduce the expanses of substantial projects and repairs.

On the other hand, if you neglect the repairs, they can become more severe than before, which means that you will spend more money on handling it along the way.

The primary consideration when it comes to roofing is that not everything is black and white, which means that sometimes it is acceptable and possible to repair it instead of expensive replacement. You will be able to get more information about roof replacement by visiting a link we shared with you.

It is vital to remember that you should take into account numerous factors such as percentage of the damaged roof as well as the type of damage so that you can determine whether you should replace or repair it altogether.

When Should You Replace Shingles?

In some specific situations, you will be able to replace a few shingles so that you can restore the function and beauty of your roof. Remember that asphalt shingles tend to last for decades after purchase, while some other modern materials can last even more.

However, before replacing them, you should find someone who will professionally inspect and analyze the current situation of your roof to check out if decking or underlayment is damaged or not.

Have in mind that there is a significant difference when you’re missing a few shingles due to harsh weather such as heavy winds, and if the leak extends to other parts of your roof due to faulty structural integrity.

Therefore, if the damage is significant and extensive, it is a way better solution to replace than repair, because it will last longer and take less money out of your pockets.

Also, remember that shingles are regularly exposed to weather elements such as heat, snow, and rain, which means that even if you have a spare box of them from the last time, you may have issues matching them together.

At the same time, it depends on the size and location of the area that you need to replace, so it may be challenging to blend the new ones with the ones you already have on the roof.

On the other hand, if the area that requires new shingles is in some area that is not visible and the problem is small generally, you will be able to nail down a few of them so that you can maintain the protection of your household.

Note: If you have noticed missing shingles, you should avoid waiting too much to replace them. Remember that shingles are the first line of protection against wind and water damage, so the small area can cause severe issues that may lead to leakage and exact replacement.

Should You Patch Damaged Areas?

Understandably, most homeowners think that it is enough to patch deteriorating or damaged sections of the roof instead of doing the entire thing. They may even choose to use the shingles from the existing roof instead of doing it from scratch.

In some situations, patching can work, but it represents numerous issues similarly as the shingles replacements. Therefore, it is vital to find professional help that will help you analyze the current situation so that you can determine what you should do in general.

At the same time, the inspection should help you determine whether the patching will increase the roof’s lifespan and whether future damage may happen soon afterward.

A professional roofing contractor will examine both the interior and exterior of your roof, because sometimes the current situation with boards in the attic may help him determine the levels of damage.

Another bad sign is to notice small pieces outside of the shingles, or granules, on the ground or in gutters. Remember that a sagging roof may lead to severe issues, which means that you will not be able to repair it, and even if you do it, the problem will return.

Therefore, if you decide to patch it up, remember that the outcome will not feature the aesthetically appealing roof. At the same time, if the area is more significant than usual, which means that more than a few shingles are missing, it will be challenging to blend them.

Can You Roof Over The Existing One?

Some people ask whether they should shingle over the existing structure. Even though you may find contractors that will handle this particular project, you should remember that it is like placing a band-aid on a broken arm.

You understand that it will only create an illusion that you dealt with a problem, while the issue will persist underneath, and that may lead to even worse and more expensive issues than before.

At the same time, local business codes will provide you an ability to add another layer of shingles, which means that in theory, you will be able to do it.

However, you are risking that you place too much weight on your existing roof, which is why you should avoid doing it, and use lightweight material on the top if you still want to get on with it.

Another disadvantage of adding another layer is the expanse of labor when it comes to installing new shingles. Therefore, you are doubling your bills, and the solution is not as effective as an entire replacement.