Four Things to Consider When Deciding to Repair or Replace Your Roof
The roof of your home is a major investment. New roofs in Traverse City, MI cost thousands of dollars, which is why many homeowners will attempt to lengthen the life of their current roof for as long as possible. This can be done through regular maintenance and shingle replacement. Unfortunately, a house can’t tell the homeowner when it’s time for a new roof. Most roof damage occurs over time, but eventually a full replacement will be inevitable.
However, it’s not always obvious whether a simple repair job will suffice or if the entire roof needs to be replaced. The right course of action will ultimately depend on a number of different factors, including the age of the roof, existing damage and the extent of the required repairs. Consider the following when deciding whether it’s time to repair or replace your roof.
Age
The first test is to consider the age of the roof. The expected lifespan of a roof can vary drastically based on the construction material. Asphalt and wooden shingle roofs typically last about 15 to 20 years, while slate shingles are known to thrive for up to 100 years. Clay and concrete tiles have an even longer lifespan of about 200 years or more. Anything older than the projected shelf life will probably need to be replaced.
Moisture damage
Take a close look at the interior walls. Can you spot any moisture marks or brown stains on the walls? Is the paint peeling? If so, the roof has likely been leaking for a while. A small leak can be repaired, but more extensive moisture damage to the roofing layer will likely require a new roof in Traverse City, MI.
Missing or damaged shingles
Curled, torn, split or missing shingles are never good signs. Compromised shingles can be caused by everything from extended sun exposure to severe weather. The shingles can usually just be repaired if the damage is limited to only one or two areas. The only option is to replace the entire roof if more than 30 percent of the surface has been damaged.
Recent catastrophe
A major storm is a serious threat to the integrity of the roof. Damage from wind, rain or snow can cause extensive damage to both the roof and the sublayer underneath. Replacing torn or damaged shingles can be done relatively easily, but bigger problems will likely develop as time passes. The best option is to consult a professional roof contractor about the best option based on the extent of the damage.
Having a new roof installed could be the most cost-effective choice in the long run. Replacing the roof is often a more financially sound decision than paying for multiple repairs over the span of a decade before springing for a new roof in Traverse City, MI.
The specialists at Qualified Roofing can help you determine whether to repair or replace your roof based on these and other important factors. Call us today to schedule a free inspection—we look forward to assisting you!
Categorised in: New Roof