Not every roof problem needs a new roof, and not every old roof can be saved with a repair. The decision comes down to a few honest questions about the roof's age, the extent of the damage, and the cost per remaining year. Here is how we think it through with homeowners.
How old is the roof?
A roof under fifteen years with isolated damage is usually a repair. A roof past twenty, especially one shedding granules across multiple slopes, is often better replaced. Putting a repair into worn-out shingles is good money after bad, because the next failure is never far behind.
Is the damage isolated or widespread?
A single failed pipe boot, a length of flashing, or one wind-lifted section is a clear repair; see roof repair. Damage spread across the field of the roof, like hail bruising on multiple slopes, usually calls for replacement, because the whole surface has been compromised, not just one spot. Read the signs of hail damage.
What does the math say?
Divide the cost by the years you will get from it. A $1,000 repair that buys five years on a sound roof is a good deal. The same $1,000 on a roof that will need replacing in two years is not. We will give you both numbers, the repair and the replacement, so you can compare; see roof replacement cost.
Is insurance involved?
If a storm caused widespread damage, a covered claim often makes replacement the obvious choice, since you pay your deductible rather than the full cost. We document the damage so the claim decision is based on evidence; see insurance claims help.
Get an honest read
The right answer depends on your specific roof, and we will tell you which one yours needs after a free roof inspection, even when the honest answer is that a repair will do and you do not need us back for years.