Should You Repair A Leaky Roof – Or Replace It With A Full Restoration?

A leaky roof is an annoying problem that can affect your home and the quality of life within it. However, you may be wondering whether repairing a leaky roof or replacing it with a complete restoration is the best option. Today we will look at both options so you can make the right choice.

When a Repair is the Better Option

There are times when repairing your roof is the more logical decision. These include:

Financial Constraints

It is expensive to replace a roof. If you are on a tight budget, it may be best to repair the leak instead of replacing the entire thing. Waiting until you are in a position to replace the roof might lead to further damage.

You Own the House, or it is Your Primary Residence

The roof of your house and where you live is likely to be more important than for other places that you own. If these aspects matter to you, repairing rather than replacing can make sense due to urgency.

The extent of Damage is Minor

Minor leaks or damage can be repaired without replacing the entire roof. For instance, leaks around the chimney usually occur due to rust on the flashing. Replacing it with a new flashing will fix the problem.

You Want to Maintain the Design

When a roof’s design is important to you, a repair may be preferable for the sake of maintaining that design. Besides, changing a roof in some cases may interfere with a building’s structural design.

You’ve Had a Replacement Recently

If you’ve had a roof replacement recently, then it may make sense for you to repair any minor issues that arise instead of replacing the whole roof again. Having two close replacements may not be financially wise.

When a Replacement is the Better Option

Other times, Roof repair makes little difference. Here are signs that you need a new roof over your head.

Your Roof’s Life Expectancy is Exhausted

When your roof has reached the end of its life expectancy, it’s time to get a new one. Most roofs last at least two decades. Superior roofing material will eve clock four decades. Once these periods lapse, there is very little that a repair can achieve.

There is Massive Damage

The extent of damage to your roof can also be a good indicator of whether you need to replace it with a full restoration. If your roof were damaged in an earthquake, for example, then it would make sense that you should get rid of the old one and start afresh.

You Want A Different Style Roof

Another time when you may prefer replacement is if you want a makeover. Perhaps you want to install a metal roof or you are tired of the old shingles. In this case, you need an overhaul of your entire roof.

The Roof Is Too Dangerous To Be Repaired

If your roof is so dangerous that it cannot be repaired anymore, then there’s no point in trying – it should be replaced instead. This could be due to long-term exposure to the elements, such as strong winds and storms.

As a Compliance Measure

If your home was built when a different building code was in existence, or it was not built to code at the time, then you may need a new roof to comply with current regulations. This ensures that you won’t encounter problems should you decide to sell your property.

You Do Frequent Repairs

Repairing your roof is much cheaper. However, constant repairs might end up gobbling up more money in the long run. 

Getting the Most from Repairs and Replacements

Whatever option you choose, there are some things you can do to ensure you get value and a lasting solution. You need to:

• Get quotes from several contractors before making your decision – some may be cheaper than others while still offering quality workmanship 
• If you decide that you want to go through with a complete restoration, make sure that the contractor offers a warranty on their work
• Check for online reviews or recommendations and consider a company’s past successful projects

So, next time you need to restore your roof. Consider these factors. You might even want to consider both options so that there’s still another option available if one doesn’t work out for you.