From missing or cracked shingles to signs of water damage, there are a number of different problems that can happen with your roof over time. While any signs of damage may leave you worrying about having to do a total replacement, in many instances your roof can simply be repaired instead.
Repairing Damaged Shingles
Damaged shingles can occur at any point during your roof’s lifespan. The good news is that, if most of your roof is still in good condition, you can likely repair your roof instead of replacing it. Torn, broken, or missing shingles can be replaced relatively easily, saving you the expense of a total replacement. When done by an experienced company, a roof repair will still give you total protection against the elements.
If not done properly, however, roof repairs can lead to more leaks. Another potential drawback to roof repair is matching the existing shingles; if your roof is more than a few years old, even the exact same color and brand may not be a perfect match, making your repair stand out from the rest of your roof. This is rarely an issue for small repairs, but large repairs may look a bit “off” from the rest of your roof.
How Do You Know if Your Roof Needs to be Replaced?
Sometimes, even a small area of missing shingles isn’t going to be repairable. Here are a few of the biggest signs we look for to decide if a roof can be repaired, or if needs to be replaced:
Signs of moisture or water damage.
If you see signs of moisture inside of your home, such as discolorations on the ceiling, peeling paint, or mold, there is a chance that it’s too late to repair your roof.
Recent major weather patterns.
If your neighborhood was recently hit by a major storm, the damage may be more extensive than what you can see from your driveway. Even a single harsh winter can push an older roof to the point of replacement.
The age of your roof.
Is your roof 5 years old, and has a leak? Chances are it was an issue with installation that is likely repairable. On the other hand, a 20-year-old roof with even one small problem is a better candidate for replacement. Multiple repairs can end up costing nearly as much as a replacement, without extending the roof’s overall lifespan.
Materials
An 80-year-old slate roof might have a few more decades of life ahead of it, whereas a metal roof of the same age is well past its prime. Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material due to their affordability, and while the latest premium asphalt shingles are made to last up to 50 years, older options are often only rated for 20 years.
Can You Reroof Over an Existing Roof?
Yes! It is possible to reroof your home, which involves putting new shingles on top of your existing roof. This helps reduce the overall cost by saving on demolition and new underlayment. However, reroofing (or “overlaying”) can have downsides, as it will cover up any existing damage under your shingles that you can’t see. A roofing professional will be able to tell you whether or not your home is a good candidate for reroofing.
Damaged Shingles? We Can Repair Your Roof
At Avondale Roofing, we have over 30 years of experience in handling roof repairs and replacements of all types. Our highly experienced roofing experts can inspect your roof, and guide you in making the best decision for the long-term safety of your home. Contact us today to set up your Free Estimate. We proudly serve the Madison, WI area, Chicago, IL area, and beyond.