Roof Repair Or Replacement
Replacing a roof is a major investment, and in many cases, it may be possible to repair a roof without completely replacing it. Learn more about how much a new roof costs.
If itâs newer or in overall good condition, it may be worthwhile considering a repair. If itâs older and has many issues, it might be best to replace the entire roof rather than repairing it. We suggest consulting a roofing professional to find the best option for you.
Use our roofing calculator to find how much material is needed for a replacement project. Also, checkout out our roof pitch calculator if you need to find the pitch or angle.
Entire Shingles Are Missing
From a functional standpoint, there should be no problem with just replacing a few shingles here and there. “What you do need to be prepared for is the fact that it’s just about impossible to get a new shingle to match the color of an old one,” says Graham. “Granule colors have changed pretty significantly over the years. Plus, the colors change slightly with weathering.”
How much time you’ve got left: You can keep patching until a bigger issue presents itself, but if a roof starts to look like a checkerboard, people often opt to replace the whole thing.
When Is Reroofing Not A Good Idea
A professional and honest roofing contractor willand should always warn you if your roof is not a good candidate for an overlayor reroofing. That is what a roofing inspection is for and should always bedone before any action is taken on the roof.
After a thorough inspection, a roofer will come to you with his report or a recommendation, explaining why your roof is or isnt up for reroofing. You can ask for a few roof estimates from different contractors just to be sure that you are doing the right thing, so that you can choose the best roofer for yourself.
One of the main and most straightforward reasonswhen an overlay is not possible is when you dont have asphalt shingles. Installinga new roof over an existing one can only be done if you have shingles becauseyou can only put shingles over shingles. It is not possible to mix materials,nor to install a new layer over slate or wood tiles.
Another reason is curling shingles, as you can onlyinstall a new layer if the first one is completely flat and level. Shingles cancurl over time due to different reasons, so if you still want to go with theoption of reroofing, you should first get to the bottom of this problem withyour roofer and replace the curling shingles.
Read Also: Skylights In Metal Roofing
Curling Missing Or Mossy Shingles
In some cases, roof damage is obvious from the ground. Shingles are the gateway to your roofing system, so if you notice missing, curling, or cracked shingles when you look at your roof, its probably time for a roof replacement.
Some of the most common forms of visible shingle damage include:
- Cracked shingles
- Moss or algae growth
- Damage around chimneys or skylights
Its also a good idea to check your gutters for shingle debris. Debris in the gutters can indicate that the shingles are reaching the end of their lifespan and beginning to disintegrate.
If you see any signs of damage on your roof, its a good indication that its time for a roof replacement. Schedule an inspection with a roofing professional to help you determine the extent of the damage, and the best way to fix it.
Get A Professional Roof Inspection
With your amateur inspection complete, its time to phone the pros: roof inspectors.
We encourage all sellers to go out and get a report because then you can properly disclose to your would-be buyers the condition of the roof and what it takes to fix the roof, Andrew Oldham emphasizes. And theyre going to give us a bid basically on what they think needs to be done and how much life it has left.
With a detailed analysis, a professional roof inspector can even evaluate damage hidden underneath the shingles using an infrared scanner. With your inspection report in hand, you can move forward confidently knowing if its time to replace or repair your roof.
According to HomeAdvisor, a roof inspection costs between $119 to $303, though those utilizing infrared technology bump up to $400 to $600. The Oldhams recommend reaching out to your real estate agent to find a dependable, fairly priced roof inspector.
Our favorite inspector does home and termite, as well, so you can get three done at once. And sometimes the roof will be free if youre also getting the home and termite, Jennifer Oldham adds.
Also Check: Adding Gable Overhang To Existing Roof
Contact Century Roof And Solar For A Roofing Inspection And Estimate
Repairing your roof by yourself is complicated, dangerous, and not worth the hassle and risk. Contact the professionals at Century Roof & Solar to do the work for you. Our trained technicians have the experience and specialize in roof leak detection, roof repair, roof replacement, and solar energy needs! If youre in need of a roof replacement that is also the perfect time to consider going solar. We would be happy to provide you with a comprehensive estimate for the highest quality of materials and methods of installation that the industry can provide.Contact us online 24/7 or call our office at 1-888-233-7548 for more information.
Sign #: Debris In Gutters
Check your gutters for pieces of asphalt shingles or sand-like granules that are used as a top coat this material protects your tiles, and if granules are falling from your tiles and into your gutters, then it could be a sign that your shingles are deteriorating. Of course, a few loose granules are normal, but if you notice an increase in residue, this may be a warning sign.
The protective coating of a roof tends to slough off due to atmospheric changes, constant exposure to weather, long-term usage and moisture, which causes the asphalt to weaken. Therefore, you should aim to repair tiles and replace their protective coating on a regular basis.
You should also check for debris falling from trees nesting on your roof, as this can cause the coating of your roof to weaken. Therefore, regular garden maintenance is important.
Make sure that you inspect your roof regularly in broad daylight, and if you notice deformed, distorted, curled areas, or tiles bald from their protective coating, then you may need to make some roof repairs. And, if you live in North Yorkshire, give us a call. Wed be happy to have our Harrogate roofers take a look at your property and recommend repairs.
Don’t Miss: How To Get Roofing Leads Without Door Knocking
Roof Plan Or Roof Scam
Q: My friend has a new 9,000-square-foot home and has had problems with the roof leaking. The roofing man and two painting guys have told her that the caulk on her roof was the source of the problem. They told her that she should have it checked every six months for cracking and possible replacement because the caulk doesn’t last long. I have never heard of this before and was wondering if they are pulling her leg or if this is a real problem?
Shari, Park Hills, Mo.
A:Tom Silva replies: I’ve got to tell you, it sounds like they’re pulling your leg. You shouldn’t need any caulking on a roof with proper flashing. You need a second opinion.
The Importance Of Roof Pitch
Q: Everything being equal , which roof will last longer: one with a steep pitch or one with a shallow pitch? Seems to me a steep hillside erodes more quickly than a low slope, so I’d think that roof shingles would wear out more quickly on a steeply sloped roof.
George, Oglesby, Ill.
A:Tom Silva replies: It’s difficult to say. On one hand, a steep roof is less likely to collect leaves and other debris that hold moisture against the shingles and invite the growth of moss and algae. On the other hand, that same roof in an unshaded area facing due south will take the full brunt of the sun, which is hard on any roof.
Actually, factors other than pitch have a greater effect on shingle durability. The side facing your worst weather typically fares worse than the leeward side. Likewise, a roof system that isn’t vented properly and allows heat to build up beneath the roofing has a shorter life than one that is vented.
You May Like: Skylight Metal Roof
Storm Damage To The Metal Panels
This may seem pretty obvious, but if anything damages the integrity of your metal panels itll lead to a roof replacement. This is usually caused by acts of God, such as strong storms, hail, and wind.
For example, a tree limb falling on your standing seam metal roof could cause serious damage to the metal panels. If these limbs cause large dents and scratches to the metal panels, you should have your roof replaced before causing a costly leak.
Be aware, if your metal roof has storm damage, it could be replaced using insurance. But how do you know if your metal roof is covered?
When To Replace Your Roof: How To Tell If Its Time
At HomeLight, our vision is a world where every real estate transaction is simple, certain, and satisfying. Therefore, we promote strict editorial integrity in each of our posts.
Last time you climbed up a ladder and cleaned out your gutters, you got a magnified view of your roof. A few turned up shingles, moss, some rust action are these blemishes normal, or are they signs that you need a new roof?
When you start noticing your roofs age, bring in the experts to determine if its time for a replacement. Roof damage can lead to leaks and cause significant structural damage. Plus, beyond protecting your home, your roof plays a key role in curb appeal when its time to sell.
We want our houses to look as good as possible from the curb and from the photographs. And now that we use a lot of aerial shots and drone shots, the roof is much more visible. So its just that much more important that the roof looks good, shares top real estate agent Andrew Oldham, who, along with his partner Jennifer Oldham, sells 70% more single-family homes in San Jose than the average agent.
Dont let a roof in disrepair bring down your homes value. Follow these six steps to determine if you need to replace your roof.
Recommended Reading: Roof Replacement Cost California
How To Tell If You Need A New Roof
A Guide To DIY Roof Inspection & 14 Signs You Need A New Roof
As a homeowner of an old or aging house, you are probably wondering how to tell if you need a new roof.
You likely also want to know when your roof needs to be replaced and how often your roof should be replaced. Finding answers to these questions can be tricky sometimes and, often, the answers you need arent all in one place.
We want to change that.
In this how to tell if you need a new roof guide, we will cover three main topics:
How to perform an interior roof check
How to perform an exterior roof check
What to do if you identify roof damage
What Is The Life Expectancy Of Stone Coated Roofing Tiles
One popular option for tile roofing is stone coated steel tiles, which are lightweight but also strong enough to withstand wind uplifts of 110 MPH to 150 MPH, making them an excellent option for hurricane prone areas like Florida, the Carolinas, and the Gulf Coast.
Note that these tiles can be prone to rust, so if there is any discoloration, chipping, or peeling paint or excessive leaks that dont respond to basic repairs you may need to replace your stone coated steel tile roof.
Also Check: Metal Roof Extension
Signs That You Need To Replace Your Asphalt Roof
Is your roof leaking? If so youre probably worried that the entire roof will have to be replaced.
But just because your roof is leaking doesnt mean you need a complete replacement. So, when should you replace your roof? The answer to that question isnt going to be the same for everyone.
Bill Ragan Roofing has been replacing roofs in the Nashville area since 1990. We know what it takes to give you a roof replacement thats going to give you years of peace of mind. Thats why we even offer a lifetime warranty on our workmanship.
Replacing your roof never comes at a convenient time so its important to know when the right time to replace your roof is.
Keep reading to learn the 3 reasons why your roof should be replaced so you know when the time is right for you. By the end of this article, youll know why your roof may need replacing and what to consider before you replace your roof.
What Are The Two Types Of Metal Roof Systems
Before we get to the signs that its time to replace your standing seam metal roof, you need to know the difference between the two metal roof systems.
A standing seam metal roof system is a series of panels that are locked together at the seams or seamed mechanically. This allows for panels to expand and contract freely when the metal heats up.
A screw down panel metal roof is just what it’s called it’s screwed down with the fasteners exposed. The panels are fastened down using screws and washers screwed through the face of the metal. This method of screwing the metal down doesnt allow the metal to expand and contract naturally.
Due to a lack of expansion capabilities on a screw down panel roof system, I do not recommend that you use this type of roof system over any heated living or workspace.
To learn more about the two types of metal roof systems, check out this article on standing seam vs. screw down panels.
Recommended Reading: What Size Nails For 7 16 Osb Wall Sheathing
Signs Your Flat Roof Needs Replacing
Could your flat roof be trying to tell you it needs to be changed?
When it comes to buying or living in a home with a flat roof, some people are unsure what to expect. You might have been told that flat roofs can be a big problem or risk but, elsewhere, there are firm beliefs that flat roofs can stand the test of time when installed correctly.
The materials and the method used by the installer can be the difference between a flat roof needing to be replaced after five years and a flat roof lasting over 30 years.
Its common for properties built in the UK in the 1960s and 1970s to come with a flat garage roof attached to the property using bituminous felt. At the time, this was a new method of attaching a flat garage roof, so issues tended to emerge during the installation process. Unfortunately, it didnt take long for homeowners to start complaining about failing felt roofs.
Fast-forward to the twenty-first century, and the market offers a huge range of flat roofs. The technology of flat roofs has evolved somewhat, and so increased the guarantees that are available.
This article will detail not only what flat roof options are on the market but also what possible defects you may come across and when you should consider replacing rather than repairing your own flat roof.
Design and installation
Tears, splits, cracks and exposed timbers
Adhesion failure, bubbling and blistering
Ponding, poor falls and small outlets
Organic growth
Adjoining walls and upstands
Consider Your Roofs Age
One of the first things to consider before you begin inspecting your roof for cracks, breaks, and other issues is its age. A roof that is 25 to 30 years or older may require a complete replacement, even if the roof itself appears in good shape from the naked eye.
Older roofs were often created with materials that are no longer useful or considered strong today.
If your roof is 10, 15, or 20 years old, it may be time for a thorough inspection and potentially investing in an entirely new roof altogether, especially if your roof has been laid over a previously installed roof.
Read Also: How Much For Shingle Roof
How Long Does A Tile Roof Last
Tile roofing systems can last for years if properly cared for, and they tend to be popular in warmer and wetter climates due to their heating and cooling efficiency and water resistance.
A tile roofs lifetime largely depends on the type of tile roofing material that you choose and any regional weather factors that may apply.
A tile roof will have a longer or shorter lifespan based on the climate it is located in for instance, a tile roof in Florida is going to require a different type of maintenance than a tile roof in Illinois.
Furthermore, a tile roof might last longer than a shingled roof in Florida, for example, because tile roofing can better withstand the heat and humidity and possible hurricane or tropical damage that can occur in that state.
On the other hand, a tile roof in Illinois can still last for several decades, since the climate is much more temperate and the roof is less likely to be subject to thermal shock, hurricanes, or other weather events that can cause serious damage.
How Long Does An Asphalt Roof Last
An asphalt shingle roof can last around 15 to 25 years, if properly maintained and barring any significant weather events or disasters.
However, you will probably want to have your roof checked out by professionals around the 15 year mark, especially if you have dealt with any kind of major weather issues.
Asphalt shingles are made from layers of organic material and cement fibers over a layer of black asphalt that heats up in the sun and forms a watertight layer that offers protection from UV rays and wind as well.
If you think your asphalt shingles might need to be repaired or replaced, look for major cracks, loose or missing granules, or shingles that are curled up at the edges.
A hailstorm, blizzard, tornado, or other catastrophic weather event can also shorten the lifetime of your roof and you may need a full replacement or roof repair.
3 tab asphalt shingle roofs one of the most popular kinds in most temperate climates including the midwestern United States are some of the more common asphalt roofing options, but there are some variations like architectural or dimensional shingles, which can last longer.
Keep in mind that if you have an asphalt shingle roof in places that get serious strong sunlight like southern California, Texas, Nevada, New Mexico, or Arizona, then youll want to be aware that your roof might not last as long as it would in other areas like the Midwest or Northeast.
You May Like: Skylight For Metal Roof
