So, your roof has seen better days, and now you’re wondering: Should I repair it or go for a full replacement? It’s a common question homeowners ask their roofing contractor after an inspection. The answer depends on a few key factors such as your budget, the extent of the damage, and the overall condition and age of your current roof.
This decision isn’t as simple as picking out produce at the grocery store. It takes careful thought, planning, and trust in your contractor to guide you in the right direction. At RoofCrafters, we’ve been handling roof repairs and replacements for over 30 years, and we firmly believe that if we can’t back a repair with a solid warranty, we won’t offer it as a solution.
But don’t worry, dear reader! We’re here to make the process easier. Let’s break down the pros and cons of roof repairs vs. roof replacements so you can make the best choice for your home! Let's get started.
Roof Repairs Pros and Cons
Roof repairs are ideal if you have spotted the issue before it has had the chance to grow into a bigger problem. Often an easy solution is found in a roof repair, if it is caught early enough, it is almost always better for you.
Also, if your existing roofing materials have plenty of life left in them and you have a leak, in most cases we would only recommend doing a repair to fix the leak, along with any other maintenance issues we see that may cause you a problem in the near future.
That way, when we leave your home, we will be confident that you will have a good roof to protect you and your home. Let’s break down some of the pros and cons of roof replacements to help make it easier for you to make the important decision:
The Pros
- Low cost – a roof repair is less expensive than a roof replacement. If you are on a low or fixed budget, then this option is great to stop a roof leak or repair any damaged materials.
- Takes less time – you can get your roof repaired in just a matter of days. The mess created is also sure to be minimal, making the cleanup process effortless, which reduces the cost.
- Functionality is great – a roof repair is a perfect way to improve the durability and longevity of your roof. It helps add a few years to your roof and prevent expensive leak repairs later on.
- Easy way to improve aesthetics – A roof repair is a quick way to make your roof come back to life without having to spend too much.
The Cons
- Higher per square costs – since the area being repaired is smaller, the cost per square is going to be more expensive. Because we typically have to tie into an older roof when we do repairs, the repair work has to be done slower.
- Finding the perfect replacement parts – may be difficult especially when it comes to the shingles. Getting the right match can be a tough task given that your home or property has aged, making it difficult to match your color.
- High chance of undetected damage – since the entire roof isn’t being replaced, there may be a possibility of other areas that are failing that you have not noticed yet.. Thus, leaving you with no other choice but to call in the contractor for additional repairs later on when the damage surfaces.
Roof Replacements Pros and Cons
Roof replacements can be full or partial, depending on the extent of the damage. Sometimes only partial roof replacements are needed due to roof storm damage. Here are some of the pros and cons:
The Pros
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High return on investment – you are sure to get rid of any undetected damage and problems with a roof replacement.
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Improves the look of your home – it’s like getting a brand new makeover for your home. The number of options out here today is plenty. You can pick the latest and most trending design, color, and style that will surely add curb appeal to your home.
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Increases value of your property – if you end up selling your home or property soon, the roof replacement is sure to pull up the value of the property.
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Easy to find a reliable contractor – professional contractors and service providers for roof replacements are easily accessible and available. They’re certified and can get on board right away.
The Cons
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Takes more time – roof replacements can take up to 14 days to plan, get permits, and schedule and If you have an upcoming event, then you might have to delay your plans till the roof has been replaced.
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The noise and fallout can be disturbing – the constant banging for a long period can be distressing for people living in the home. Especially if you have elderly people, children, and pets. The added stress of having to consider relocating to a temporary location, for the time being, can be
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Can be costly – roof replacements can be quite heavy on the pocket. This is because of the costs of labor, materials, and time spent on getting the project completed professionally and efficiently.
Which One Is the Right Fit for You?
If your roof has minor, localized damage and is still in decent shape, a repair might be all you need. But if you’re dealing with frequent leaks, widespread damage, or an aging roof, a replacement is likely the better (and more cost-effective) solution in the long run. Not sure which option fits your situation? Take our “Repair or Replace” Quiz to find out!
Final Takeaway: Get Expert Advice
Still on the fence? The best way to make an informed decision is to schedule an inspection with a trusted roofing contractor. They’ll assess your roof’s condition and help you determine the best course of action.
And if you’re looking for the right contractor, download our “Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor” checklist. It’ll help you vet professionals and ensure you’re making the best investment for your home.
This checklist includes several different prompts to ask your roofer to prepare you to hold the company accountable for its quality of work and services when it comes to your roof repair or replacement. When you feel confident in taking the next step on your roofing journey, be sure to hit the "Schedule an Inspection" button down below!
