How to Decide Between Roof Repair and Roof Replacement

The roof on your house is one of the most important structures of your home. A great roof brings curb appeal, and more importantly, protects your abode from exterior elements that could cause damage and discomfort.

After a storm or if you notice something is visually “off” about your roof, it’s easy to panic not knowing if you need minor roof repair or total roof replacement.

Both roofing investments have steep differences in cost. Let’s take a look at how to decide when you need roof repair or a new roof. We’ll cover the benefits of each, and illustrate why Shepherd Renovation is your go-to Dallas roofing contractor for both.

Age of Roof

The biggest indicator between roof repair and replacement is age. The average lifespan of a slate, copper or tile roof is around 50 years. If your roof is wood shake, then 30 years. For fiber cement shingles and asphalt shingles, you’re looking at an average lifespan between 20-25 years before you need a roof replacement.

When you purchased your home, your housing inspection would’ve included the date your roof was built or replaced. If you live in new construction, then obviously you know how old the roof is. Once you pinpoint the age and material of your roof, you’ll know how close you are to the roof’s maturation date and can save for a total roof replacement.

Noticeable Roof Damage

The extent of aesthetic and structural damage makes a huge difference when deciding between roof repair or replacement.

Look for signs of damage like worn materials, moss growing between shingles, curled, damaged, or missing shingles. These are red flags that the integrity of your roof is in danger.

Only a roofing contractor can assess the total extent of roof damage beyond what the naked eye can see. In the case of a few missing shingles, a simple repair might do the trick. More serious issues like rot or mold would warrant roof replacement.

Water Stains on Ceiling

When you notice a wet spot or water stain on your ceiling, your roof has a leak. If you allow a leak to fester, it spreads throughout the roofing system quickly deteriorating insulation. A leaking roof is known to cause mold, rot wood and damage ceilings.

Catching the problem early enables your leak detection contractor to resolve through affordable repair. But be warned, most roofing companies actually turn down roof repair projects. It’s as if smaller jobs aren’t worth the effort. Unlike them, Shepherd Roofing & Renovation welcomes roof repair projects in addition to roof replacements.

Benefits of Roof Repair

Minor roof damage can be repaired. Not only does investing in roof repair provide excellent peace of mind, but it can save you money in the long term. Roof repair extends the expected lifespan of your roof. Contractors have the opportunity to identify structural weaknesses before they become massive issues, and make your roof a more functional piece of your property.

When to Get a Roof Replacement

You are probably gripped by panic when you face a roof replacement. They are generally higher in price upfront. Look at it this way, a new roof can lead to greater energy efficiency, drastically improve curb appeal and increase property value.

New roofs are necessary for all properties eventually; especially for people who stay in their homes for decades or buy an older property. It’s important to perform your due diligence using online resources and recommendations from friends and family. Once you’ve hired a trustworthy roofing contractor, plan to stay out of the house during construction. Roof replacements can be messy and loud. You’ll want to take your family (pets included) elsewhere for the duration of the job.

Find a Roof Repair Company

Very few roofing contractors in Dallas accept roof repair projects. If it isn’t a total roof replacement for top-dollar, it isn’t worth the trip to them. Unlike other roofing companies who refuse roof repair business, Shepherd Roofing & Renovations proudly provides both roof repair or roof replacement based on your property’s unique needs.

We always put the customer first and are here to help year-round wherever we’re needed. In fact, we cooperate with homeowner insurance companies and home warranty companies on your behalf to make the process as stress-free as possible.