Determining Roof Repair or Replacement

You likely already understand roofs need ongoing inspection and maintenance in order to stay in top shape and sometimes may need repairs after a specific event such as a storm or downed tree limb. Of course, everything has a natural life and a roof will eventually need to be completely replaced. In some cases it can be difficult to determine whether major repairs, replacement of a section of the roof, or a complete roof tear off and new roof installation is the best solution for the problem at hand.

Some aspects of the roof are designed with routine maintenance in mind and the overall design is to allow for minor repairs should a leak occur. The fact of the matter is, the roof goes through a lot of stress over the course of a year as it is exposed to different temperatures and types of weather. The sealant around chimneys and exhaust pipes needs to be touched up as it expands and contracts during hot days of direct sunlight in the summer and freezing temperatures in winter and becomes brittle and cracked with age. Wind can occasionally make a shingle come loose, which can be replaced even if the entire roof doesn't need replacement.

A few aspects of a damaged roof suggest a full replacement may be more efficient than ongoing repairs. When multiple leaks occur throughout the year, it's time to consider a replacement. If a large section needs replacement, it's likely the rest of the roof is soon to follow so it may make sense to replace the entire roof in order for it to maintain a continuity of matching appearance. If a section of roof needs replacement due to specific damage such as from a fallen tree limb, and the building design allows for a contrasting color instead of an exact match for the area, it may be possible to replace just the damaged section. If there is structural damage in the sub-roof the roof is likely going to need to be removed and replaced in order to conduct the underlying repairs.

When working with a responsible contractor who specializes in roofing, there are a few things you can expect. They will explain several options concerning repair or replacement and give you sound advice as to why they think one solution is the best way to proceed. Secondly, they will give you an estimate which will include a breakdown of labor cost and materials along with how long you can expect the project to take.