When Is Roof Replacement More Practical Than Repairs?

When it comes to roofing problems, repairs should always be your first option; roof replacement should always be last. However, there are situations where repairs can place you at a disadvantage. In today’s post, local roofing company Kroll Construction shares insight on why sometimes replacement is the more practical solution to your roofing problems.

When Is Roof Replacement More Practical Than Repairs?

Old Roofing

One of the most important considerations when deciding between repair and replacement is the roof’s age. A standard asphalt shingle roof is expected to last 20 to 30 years. Standing seam metal roofs can last up to 50 years, while others like tile and slate are expected to last longer. If your roof is past its expected life span, you should reconsider undertaking major repair work.

Severity of the Leak

The extent of the roofing problem can also clue you in on whether you need repairs or replacement. This is why roofing companies recommend performing your own visual inspections even though you won’t be performing repairs yourself. It helps set your expectations and plan what to do next even before you make your first call to your contractor. It’s obvious that a small leak would require minor repairs, but it becomes less obvious the more severe the leak gets. At some point, the roof leak will be so severe that replacement would be the better choice over the long term.

Shingles vs Support Structure

Sloped roofing systems can be roughly divided into two major sections: the shingles and the support structure. In addition to asphalt shingles, the term “shingles” may also apply to wood shakes, sheet metal, tile, or slate. Damaged shingles can be easily replaced, especially if the layers underneath such as the underlayment are intact.

The support structure, on the other hand, is the roof’s “skeleton,” and includes components such as rafters and trusses. It’s not as visible as the shingles, and therefore takes more effort to inspect, but damage to the support structure would often result in a replacement. When in doubt, it’s best to have your roofing contractor perform a thorough inspection before choosing between repair or replacement.

Kroll Construction is one of the leading roofing companies serving Detroit and surrounding communities in Michigan. Give us a call at (734) 999-1022 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

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