Regular preventive maintenance is good for both your roof’s appearance and your wallet. Putting off necessary repairs might save you money in the short-term, but it can end up costing you a lot more down the road. However, not all roofing issues require repairs – some problems can only be addressed through roof replacements. The route you take will depend on a variety of factors, including the extent of damage and the percentage of total roof surface which needs repairs.
Regular Inspections Can Help Catch Issues Early
Regular roofing inspections (at least once every year) can help you catch leaks early and carry out the necessary maintenance before a replacement is needed. You should also have your roofer inspect your roof for damage after huge storms. This way, minor damages can be repaired before they escalate into major problems which might demand total replacement.
When to Simply Repair Leaks
In some cases, repairing your roof by simply replacing a few shingles is the only thing needed to restore function and aesthetics to a roof. Asphalt shingles are designed to last for more than two decades, and some even come with a lifetime warranty as long as you own the home and keep up with the necessary maintenance plans.
Before you decide to repair or replace your roof, have a professional inspect it to determine if there’s any damage to the underlayment or decking. There is a huge difference between a few missing shingles due to a storm and leaks extending beyond the various layers of your roof. If the damage is extensive, your roofer may recommend a total replacement as opposed to repairs.
When to Replace the Roof
Other than extensive damage to your roof’s underlayment and decking, keep in mind shingles are continuously exposed to rain, heat, and snow causing them to fade and deteriorate over time. Depending on the location of the damaged shingles and the total area needing replacement, it can be hard to blend new shingles into the rest of the roof. In such a case, it might make more sense to replace the entire roof to have a more aesthetically-appealing roof.
A roofing expert will examine both the interior and exterior of your roof, including the boards in your attic to see if moisture damage has penetrated the decking and into your home. On the outside, common signs of serious problems include curling or buckling shingles. Another sign is the presence of granules in your gutter system. A sagging roof is often an indication your roof’s structure has deteriorated and should be replaced as soon as possible.
Moreover, age plays a critical role when deciding to repair or replace a roof. If your roof has started leaking after just five years, the problem is likely related to the workmanship or defects in the roofing material rather than normal wear and tear. However, a 20-year old asphalt shingle roof with numerous issues is probably approaching the end of its lifespan and should be replaced.
Contact Exteriors Plus to Schedule a Free Consultation!
A new roof can dramatically enhance the look and value of your home. Improve your home’s beauty with roof repair/maintenance or replacement services from Exteriors Plus in the Akron and Cleveland areas. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced roofing professionals.