No homeowner wants to hear that their roof has suffered significant damage! A roof leak, fallen tree, or missing materials creates a stressful situation that needs immediate attention. Damage is easily caused, but the solution is only sometimes easily completed. The most common question when a roof has suffered damage is whether it can be repaired or if a full replacement is necessary.
The answer is not straightforward, which no homeowner wants to hear.
Craven Construction has provided quality roofing services to the entire East Valley for over two decades! We have seen just about everything when it comes to damaged roofs. To help you determine what’s best for your roof, we’re walking through the difference between a repair and replacement, and what to consider when deciding which one you need.
Roof Repair
The key to a proper roof repair is to make sure the damage is isolated and moderate. By discovering minor repairs and properly completing small repairs, you can help restore your roof and hopefully extend its lifespan.
Many homeowners believe they can take on most home projects themselves. When it comes to your roof though, a repair is best left to the professionals. They will be able to accurately assess the damage, ensure it is truly isolated, and provide you with work to be complete to repair the roof. While a repair is significantly cheaper than a full replacement, right now, it does not mean it will not need to be repaired again or replaced again in the near future.
Minor roof repairs could include:
- Replacing missing or cracked material
- Gutter maintenance and repair
- Installing new ventilation
- Discovering and repairing bubbling on a flat roof
Unfortunately, most roof repairs homeowners believe need to be done turn into a full roof replacement. What homeowners fail to accept is by the time they notice that their roof is damaged, it is too late. Damaged material easily allows moisture inside, which creates hidden dangers within the roofing system. We highly recommend having damage assessed by a professional for their expert opinion.
Full Roof Replacement
As we just discussed, most roof repairs are a roof replacement waiting to be done. A full roof replacement means stripping all of the materials from the roof to expose the roof deck. If a roof has sustained damage, it could find its way below the roof deck and inside the home. Before a new roof is installed, this damage needs to be assessed and the materials need to be replaced.
A full roof replacement requires a lot more work and will have a higher cost upfront. However, if the damage is significant enough, a replacement will more than pay for itself over time.
The roof replacement process is complex and requires a professional to complete the installation. Many material manufacturers will void their warranty if the roof is not installed by a trained roofing contractor. Most roof replacements will take 1-3 days, depending on the complexities, material choices, and any surprises along the way.
What to consider when deciding between repair & replacement:
1. Age of the Roof
The age of your roof can sometimes be the determining factor when it comes to choosing to repair or replace the roof. Your roofing material’s lifespan will vary, but the average roof age in Arizona is between 20-50 years.
If your roof is nearing 20+ years old and has sustained damage, you might consider a full replacement over repair. The older your roof is, the higher the likelihood that it is going to fail sooner rather than later. On the flip side, if your roof is only a few years old, discuss your options with your local roofing contractor.
2. How Long You Plan To Stay in the Home
The amount of time you plan on staying in your home can be a determining factor in if you complete a roof repair or full replacement. If you are planning on selling your home soon, a new roof can be attractive to buyers and increase the value, a sale price, of your home. Or you can choose to not complete a replacement, but repair it instead. If this is the route you choose to go, be sure to have the repair completed by a professional as it will be discovered during a home inspection.
If you plan on staying in your home for a long time, a full replacement could pay off sooner than later. Remember that a repair will only last so long and you could be paying for work that will need to be completed again very soon.
3. Your Financial Situation
As we said before, a full replacement will cost significantly more than a repair. If your current financial situation does not allow for a full replacement, repair will be the way to go. Just keep in mind that a repair could need to be done again, and cost more in the long run.
Many roofing companies offer financing options or your bank may provide some form of support if you find you need financial help.
Craven Construction is here for all of your roofing repair or replacement needs. We have provided the East Valley with professional services for over 20 years! Call our office today to schedule your FREE estimate.
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About Craven Construction
Craven Construction is dedicated to providing our customers with honest and reliable roofing services. With over two decades of residential and commercial experience, we are here to serve you and all of your roofing needs.
Our team of experienced roofers is licensed and knowledgeable in working with all types of roofing. We offer high quality roofing services and are capable of getting your project completed in a timely, efficient manner.