When to Repair Your Roof and When to Replace It

A roof is an essential part of your home's exterior. Just like the walls of your home, it provides shelter from harsh weather elements and temperatures, as well as pests and insects.

If your roof isn't providing a high level of protection for your home, it's not working as it should. Problems with your roof aren't always easily fixed or noticed fast enough, which is why it's ideal to have a roof inspection completed twice a year (every six months). Moisture and leaks can cause structural damage to the roof over time, resulting in irreversible damage. 

You may not always know whether your roof needs to be replaced or if it can be repaired. Here are three questions to ask yourself to determine whether your roof can be fixed or needs an overhaul: 

How old is your roof?

Which materials were used and how the roof was installed can determine whether a roof lasts a decade or a lifetime. Asphalt shingles last on average from 10-15 years, while metal roofs last 30-50 years. If your roof has reached the end of its lifespan, it's best to lean towards replacing it entirely to avoid significant damage to your home.

Is there damage that can be reversed?

Some of the damage on a roof can be reversed, such as streaks and moss. Airborne algae can produce dark spots on your roof, which appear in shaded areas. Algae and moss can both be cleaned off to make your roof look great again.

What is the condition of your roof?

Take a look at your roof. Is your ridgeline sagging? Are the shingles curling or missing? Go into the attic and see if there are leaks or moisture damage.

When You Can Repair Your Roof:

  • Missing shingles and no signs of water damage/leaking
  • Flashings and trims look aged

When a Replacement is Needed:

  • Roof deck sags
  • Signs of water damage on the roof deck or your ceiling
  • Moisture or rotting on the structure
  • Shingle granules in the eavestroughs show the quality and age of the roof

Why is replacing your roof more beneficial?

Replacing your roof can allow your roofing contractor to examine the roof deck and the structure of the roof itself. Ideal if you haven't had a roof inspection completed. It allows for more protection against the harsh weather elements of your region. Also, you have the option of choosing a more efficient, low-maintenance and longer-lasting roofing option, such as metal (if you have an asphalt roof already).

If you're deciding to repair or replace your roof, it's also best to inspect the attic and your eavestrough at the same time. These two areas also have an impact on the quality of your roof.

Next Steps

Once you’ve done your inspection and determined whether your roof can be fixed or not, reach out to a roofing professional to get a cost on the project. If you would like a recommendation for a contractor in your area, contact one of Buchner Manufacturing’s five retail locations.