Roof Repair vs. Replacement: What’s My Best Option?

The roof is an essential component of any building. It provides protection from the elements and adds to the overall aesthetic appeal.

However, like any other building component, roofs are subject to wear and tear over time, and they will eventually require repair or replacement. In this blog post, we will help you identify when it’s appropriate to replace vs. repair a roof, and what to do if you are unsure.

Repair vs. Replace: What’s the Difference?

Before we delve into when replacing vs. repairing a roof is appropriate, let us first distinguish between the two. Roof repair involves fixing a specific problem, such as a leak or damage to a particular roof area. This is typically done by replacing the damaged or worn-out roof section with new material.

On the other hand, roof replacement involves completely removing and replacing the existing roof with a new one. This is usually necessary when the current roof is beyond repair or has reached the end of its lifespan.

When to Opt for a Commercial Roof Repair

Roof repair is usually appropriate when the problem is minor and localized. For example, if there is a small leak or a few missing shingles in one area of the roof, it can be repaired without needing to replace the entire roof.

In general, if the roof is relatively new and the damage is minor, it’s usually more cost-effective to repair the roof rather than replace it. This is especially true if the roof is still under warranty, as fixing it will not void it.

How Often Should You Replace a Roof?

There are several instances when replacing a roof rather than repairing it is appropriate.

These include the following scenarios:

The Roof Is More Than 20 Years Old: Most roofs will last between 20 and 25 years. If yours is over 20 years old, it’s likely nearing the end of its lifespan, and it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace it rather than continue to repair it. This can even be true if the repair seems to be minor.
Extensive Damage: Replacing the roof may be more practical than attempting to repair it. Suppose the damage to the roof is extensive, such as large sections of missing shingles or significant structural damage. This is because repairing such damage may be time-consuming and expensive, and the repair is not guaranteed to last.
Energy Efficiency: Older roofs are often less energy-efficient than newer roofs, which can result in higher energy bills. If you want to improve your building’s energy efficiency, replacing an old roof with a new one can be a good way to achieve this.
Increased Facility Value: If you plan to sell your facility, a new roof can significantly increase the value and curb appeal. This is because the roof is one of the first things potential buyers will notice when viewing the property.
Safety Concerns: If the roof poses a safety risk, such as if it’s structurally unsound or if there is a risk of collapse, it’s essential to replace it as soon as possible to ensure the safety of those living on the property.
Cost-Effective: Replacing the roof may be more cost-effective in the long run than continually repairing it. This is because repair costs can quickly add up, and a new roof will likely last many years without requiring significant repairs.

But what if you aren’t sure whether to replace or repair? The short answer is to hire help.

If you ignore roof damage, it could lead to costly repairs in the future. Learn about our roof repair process.

Commercial Roof Repair

Hiring a Professional

Whether deciding to go with a commercial roof replacement or repair, consider going with an expert. Hiring a professional to examine a roof and determine if it needs repairs or replacement is a crucial decision for any business owner. Once you’ve identified which direction you want to go, it’s time to hire a professional to get their opinion on the matter and fix or repair the roof. This process involves several steps to ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently.

The first step is to find a reputable roofing contractor. This can be done by asking for recommendations from friends and family, researching online reviews, or checking with professional associations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association.

Once a few contractors have been identified, it’s important to request a written estimate that includes a detailed description of the work that will be done and the materials that will be used.

Once an estimate has been obtained, the next step is to schedule an inspection. During the examination, the roofing professional will examine the roof for signs of damage, such as missing or cracked shingles, leaks, or water damage. They may also check for signs of wear and tear or damage to the flashing, gutters, and other roof components.

After the inspection, the roofing professional will provide a detailed report of their findings and recommendations for repair or replacement. If the latter is recommended, they will provide options for materials, cost estimates, and a timeline for completing the project. If the roof needs repairs, they will estimate the cost and the timeline for completing the work.

Before hiring a roofing professional, it’s important to ensure they are licensed and insured and to check their references. It’s also a good idea to get a written contract that includes all the project details, including the scope of work, timeline, and payment schedule.

Once you’ve gone through this process and weighed the options yourself, you can feel confident in making the best decision on whether to replace or repair the damage.

Keep a Healthy Roof With Rainville Carlson

If you’re a commercial business looking for reliable and trustworthy custom commercial roof replacement and repair services, look no further than Rainville Carlson. Our experienced professionals provide quality workmanship at competitive rates, so you can be sure your roofing needs are taken care of. Our team is dedicated to finding the best solution for your specific needs, and we are committed to providing exceptional customer service throughout the entire process.

Do you have pressing questions about your roof? We’re happy to help. Contact us today.