Roof Repair vs Roof Replacement

If the roof is leaking or damaged by the storm, it is a tough choice to make. If the area needs repair, is that a good value, or should the site be replaced? Roof Repair vs Roof Replacement: How to Make the Right Choice?

Low cost today may not translate into low cost over time. A roof expert examines and inspects the roofing system beyond the obvious leak. The longevity of the repair depends on the shingles, flashing, ventilation, underlayment, and roof deck.

When Roof Repair Makes Sense

When the damage is not extensive and the rest of the roofing system is not affected, repair is typically the most feasible solution. 

Common repairable problems include:

• A few missing or cracked shingles
• Loose flashing around a chimney or vent
• One leak with a clear source
• Minor wind damage on a single slope
• Local damage on a relatively young roof

Owens Corning says that minor damage to areas from weather or wear can be easily repaired. Before the job is even started, certain factors about the roof should still be considered, including the age, previous water damage, and overall condition of the roof.

But the biggest drawback is aesthetic. Materials that need to be replaced may not match the faded materials if they are new shingles. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association advises that where shingles exist, they should be retained, or it is advisable to determine the original colour and installation date and compare it with existing shingles. 

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When Roof Replacement Is the Better Choice

Replacement becomes easier if the detachment occurs on a large surface area or to the extent of reaching into the shingles.

Warning signs include: 

• Leaks in several rooms
• Widespread curling or brittle shingles
• Significant granule loss
• Soft, rotted or sagging decking
• Repairs that repeatedly fail
• An ageing roof with little useful life remaining

Full replacement means that all materials can be replaced and the deck removed for the contractor to inspect and understand any potential latent moisture or ventilation issues. 

Compare Long-Term Value, Not Just Price

When considering a repair, make sure and ask the number of useful years to be gained. Repetitive buying of patches sometimes may not be warranted if the replacement is already imminent.

If the area has been damaged by hail or wind in Alberta, take photos of the damage prior to putting temporary work on the line and notify the insurance company. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, those suffering storm damage should document it and notify the insurance provider immediately because existing deterioration could be addressed differently than sudden insured damage. 

Ask the contractor:

1. Is the damage local or widespread?
2. Is the roof deck still solid?
3. Has the same area leaked before?
4. How old is the roofing system?
5. What is included in the written estimate?

The Bottom Line

Roof Repair vs Roof Replacement: How to Make the Right Choice? It depends on the overall condition whether the roof repair or the roof replacement takes place. Seek to repair a healthy roof where damage has been isolated. Replace if it has been leaking repeatedly or if it shows signs of overall deterioration, or when it is too old for further patching.

Read more: Top 7 Roofing Mistakes That Cost Homeowners Thousands