When you have issues with your roof, it can be tough to decide whether it’s better to replace the roof or pay for repairs. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether or not you can repair or if it’s time to replace your roof.
The factors to consider usually fall into three main categories:
1. What kind of problems the roof has
2. What option provides the best reliability
3. What your plans are for the home
What Problems Does the Roof Have?
The first consideration is what kind of problems the roof has. If the roof is beginning to fail or leak in multiple places due to age, that is an obvious sign that it’s time to replace it. But what about other types of problems? Other common problems include improper installation and leaking around junctures and penetrations. If your roof was improperly installed, unfortunately, you’re probably better off replacing it as the repair costs can quickly add up to more money than a brand new roof. However, leaking around junctures or penetrations is an issue that can often be successfully repaired.
What Option is Most Reliable?
When dealing with roof issues, you want to go with the options that give you peace of mind that a major roof failure or leak isn’t looming over you. While some issues can be easily and reliably repaired without fear of a future failure or leak, other repairs are less reliable. If the reliability of the repair or solution isn’t high enough to give you the peace of mind you need, you might be better off replacing the roof instead of trying to repair an issue that doesn’t have a comfortably reliable fix.
What are Your Plans for the Home?
If you have renovation plans that could impact the roof or underlying structure, it’s a good idea to hold off on roof replacement until you’re ready to do your renovations to avoid having to do rework on your roof. If you are planning to list your home for sale soon, keep in mind the problems the roof has and what impact they will have on the buyer’s home inspection and possible negotiations. If the issue is something you’d replace the roof for as an ongoing owner, chances are it’s best to replace the roof before you sell your home. If the issue is something you’d feel comfortable with repairing as an ongoing owner, then having the repairs made should be sufficient. A good rule of thumb is what you would do if you were not selling the home. A roof replacement could also be recoupable in the sales price of your home as it will give buyers peace of mind as well.
Deciding when to replace your roof versus repairing the roof can be tough. Considering these factors can help with your decision on whether or not it’s time to replace your roof.
