You are about to renovate your home and one of the areas that needs attention is the roof. You have noticed it leaks, or maybe a few shingles are missing. The first question that comes to mind is whether you should repair the damaged parts or replace the whole roof. There are situations where repairing is good enough, and in other cases, you’re better off replacing the roof. If you’re struggling to decide the cause of action, here are some factors to consider.
Age of the Roof
One of the things to factor in is the age of the roof. Most roof types last between 15 and 30 years. Some, like slate roofing, can last up to 100 years. If you’ve only had your roof for about five years, then it doesn’t make sense to replace it. You can simply schedule repairs with New Jersey roofers and have the damages fixed.
On the other hand, if you have been using the roof for more than 15 years, consider replacing it. Even if you do repairs, there is a chance they won’t hold for long. Replacing is a much more cost-effective option.
Budget
When it comes to budget, everyone will automatically assume repair is the cheaper option. And in some cases, that may be true. But what if the damage is too much and the repairs can only hold for a few months? There is no point in doing repairs if you have to redo them in two months. Eventually, you’ll have to replace the roof, and you’ll have wasted a lot of money on repairs.
While your budget should guide you, ensure you go with the cost-effective method. If you’re unsure, consult with Bergen County roofers. They can give you estimates allowing you to weigh your options from a budget point of view. Even though the upfront cost of replacing a roof is high, it will save you from paying for multiple repairs.
Roof Area Affected
Have you noticed a roof leak in your bedroom? If the damage is limited to a tiny area, it’s possible you only have a small hole. In such a case, call the roofing company for repair. However, if there is a leak in the bedroom, dining, kitchen, and bathroom, it’s likely your roof is falling apart. According to roofing experts, if more than 30% of your roof is damaged, you need to start planning for replacement.
Your Plans for the House
Do you plan on selling your home? One of the things buyers look at is the roof. Most don’t want to buy a house where they have to do roofing repairs. And if the roof is damaged, they may suggest a lower asking price. Fortunately, replacing the roof has a big return on investment. Therefore, if you don’t see yourself staying in that house for long, replacing the roof should be on the list of renovations to do before selling.
Viable Insurance Claim
Another factor to consider is whether your homeowner insurance policy will cover the cost of repairing or replacing your roof. If there was a storm and your roof was damaged, the insurance company may assess the situation and decide to cover repair costs, while in other cases, it can cover the replacement cost.
Energy Efficiency
Most people are switching to energy-efficient roofing and for good reasons. After all, who doesn’t want to reduce their energy bills? Luckily today, many manufacturers are producing energy-efficient roofs, giving you plenty of options. If your roof is damaged, and you are looking for an energy-efficient option, consider replacing it instead of repairing it.
These are some things to consider when wondering which option is right for your home. You don’t need to be a professional roofer to know something isn’t right with your roof. But when you are unsure whether to replace or repair, you can call a roofer for professional advice.
