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Handy Discusses Whether or Not You Can Repair Your Roof Without Replacing It

Introduction

According to Handy, it can be challenging for most homeowners to decide whether they can get away with only repairing the damaged parts of the roof or if they need to replace the entire roof. Roof repairs are more affordable, can extend the lifespan of your roof, and can be done quickly. On the other hand, a new roof can also eliminate underlying problems, will last longer, and improve the curb appeal.

The Factors

Here are a few factors to check for when deciding whether you can repair your roof without replacing it:

  1. The age of the roof – Every roofing material has a set lifespan beyond which it is necessary to replace them as soon as possible. Asphalt shingles typically last between 15-20 years. Thus, if your roof has asphalt shingles and it’s less than a decade old, you can simply repair the damaged sections of the roof. However, if the age of the roof is closer to 20 years, it would be a better idea to replace the whole thing.

On the other hand, metal roofs have a lifespan of up to 50 years. So, you can wait for up to 45 years to replace them. If you don’t remember the exact age of the roof you have to call your roofing company and consult with them.

We recommend you consult with several roofing companies to ensure you don’t get ripped off by greedy companies that say that your house requires a roof replacement simply because they want to make money.

  1. The condition of the damaged area – The intensity of the roof damage is a good indicator of whether you need to move forward with a roof replacement or you can simply repair the damaged sections of the roof.

For instance, if the damage is minor and isolated to a small section on your roof, it is a better decision to repair the damaged sections. Usually, the damaged section should not exceed more than 30 percent of the total roof area.

However, in the case of extreme physical damage such as when a large tree falls over the roof, it can become impossible to repair the damage entirely. In such cases, you have no option but to replace the whole roof.

  1. How long you plan to stay in the house – Roof replacement is a costly investment and would serve you well if you plan to sell your house in the near future. However, if you plan to shift to a new neighborhood but have no plan to sell your house, you can save the money and move forward with a roof repair if possible.

Conclusion

Handy suggests you hire a professional to help you decide whether you need to replace the roof or fix the damage simply by repairing the damaged parts of the roof. Rain, snow, extreme fluctuating temperatures, and storms can chip away at the life of your roof sooner than expected and you should never delay in fixing your roof if you notice any signs of damage to ensure you and your family remain safe from unexpected roof accidents.

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