Although it may not be the first thing to spring to mind, the roof is one of the most important things to take care of in your house. It needs to withstand all weathers and investing in a good quality roof can be the difference between a cozy home and a massive bill down the line. But sometimes, it’s tricky to decide whether the damage is worth a replacement or a simple repair job. Lucky for you, this article is full of tips on rooftop replacement!
The Importance of Roof Replacement
Your roof is what stands between your home and the outside world, so maintaining it will keep you protected against everything from rain, hail and wind to snow and ice. If water leaks in through the roof system, this can lead to damp patches and mold spores, which can lead to sagging ceilings and illness in the family. On top of this, a good, well-insulated roof will increase energy efficiency, making your home better for the environment and decreasing your monthly bills also.
Replacement vs Restoration
Sometimes, there will only be minor damage to your roof, in which case a contractor can make some minor repairs, However, when there is a serious problem, it is vital that you get your roof changed immediately.
Just a Simple Repair
If the roof seems to be in fairly good condition and is still relatively new, then things like cracked tiles, a few windblown shingles and small leaks can be easily fixed without having an entire roof replacement. The same applies to rusted metal panels, faulty flashing detail and leaky skylights where these can be repaired easily.
In Need of Replacement
The first and most common reason to replace an entire roof is age. Experts in our field say you should be replacing your roof system every 20-25 years, and this may be sooner if you live in an area prone to storms and extreme weather. Due to the weather we have in the Dallas/Fort Worth metro area, some roofs may need to be replaced every 7-10 years depending on damage. The aesthetics of the roof can also play a big part in the decision to replace it. The shingles can stain, wear and curl at the edges with increased age, which can change the whole look of the house. Particularly for people trying to sell their homes, having a good quality roof can be a make-or-break deal for some buyers.
Choosing the Right Course of Action
It can be incredibly difficult to choose between replacing and repairing your roof. Striking a balance between spending money on the essentials and being ripped off can be challenging, especially when there is such a variety in price between contractors. However, if you follow this advice, you should be safe in your choices:
- Use your common sense – if the price seems extortionate or the damage doesn’t look bad enough for a replacement then think carefully before replacing
- Speak to your friends and family before choosing a contractor – Contact a friend or family member to see if they have a contractor they can refer you to.
- Do your research: Check out the company rating on Better Business Bureau. Check out the online reputation of company (online reviews). Ask for a list of customer referrals. A good contractor should have a list of referrals. Ask for certificates of insurance to ensure the contractor has insurance. Check to see if contractor is licensed in your state.
Hopefully this article gave a little insight of roof repair vs replacement. Additionally, hopefully some of the tips in this article can help you make a more informed decision on what contractors to work with.
