Asphalt roofing is common for several reasons. It's more affordable than other roofing options and it lasts a long time. However, it may need more repairs than other roofing, but fortunately, repairs are fairly easy to keep up with. When your asphalt roof suffers from damage due to a storm or because it's getting old, a roofing contractor can offer advice on whether to spend money on repairs or have a new roof installed. Here are things to consider.
1. The Extent Of The Damage
If just a small section of your roof has damage as might happen if tree branches scrape against the roof, your roofer might recommend repairs if you want to get a longer life from your old roof. As long as the rest of your roof is in good shape, you might be able to put off a new roof installation for a few more years.
When the damage is widespread, it doesn't make much sense to attempt repairs. If there's a lot of damage as might happen during a hailstorm or because your roof is old, then the roofer will probably recommend getting a new roof.
2. The Cost Of Repairs
A small damaged area might be affordable to repair, but that might not always be the case. If all that's needed is to put on new shingles, then repairs may be indicated. However, if the roof has been leaking for a long time, the deck might be rotted. There could even be damage to rafters under the deck.
If the roof requires carpentry work to repair rafters and put on new decking, then your roofer may explain the costs associated with repairs against the costs of getting a new roof. The choice might depend on the condition of the rest of the roof and how much life it has left.
3. The Season Of The Year
If your roof starts leaking in the middle of winter, your roofer might recommend making repairs, even if they are temporary. If the weather is warm enough, it might be possible to put new asphalt roofing on during the winter. If the weather is too cold, the adhesive needed to help seal the shingles may not bond as well, and that could lead to problems later on.
4. Your Insurance Coverage
If your asphalt roofing was damaged in a storm, your homeowner's insurance may pay for work to be done, and they'll probably specify if they'll pay for repairs or a roof replacement. That helps make up your mind since you won't want to choose repairs if your insurance company is willing to put on a new roof.
You'll also want to look into the warranty from the shingle manufacturer and roof installer to see if you can get help from them to pay for repairs or an installation.
5. Your Budget If You Have To Self-Pay
If you have to pay out of pocket for the roof work and your budget is tight, you might need to take the least expensive option. You might choose repairs since they cost less and hope your roof lasts long enough for you to save up money to have a new roof installed.
For more information on asphalt roofing, contact a professional near you.
Share13 July 2022
When it came time to install a new roof on my home, I had no idea where to start. In fact, I was exploring roofing options that were a really poor fit in my climate. It wasn't until I reached out to a local roofer that I got some lessons on how to choose the right roofing material for my home and the weather exposure it is subjected to. I built this site to share my journey, including the mistakes I made and the things that I learned along the way. If you are considering replacing your home's roof, I hope that the information here can help to guide you through the process.
