What Factors Determine a Roof Repair vs. Roof Replacement

No single roof was built to last forever. Over time, all roofs deteriorate from the wear and tear of the elements; sun, rain, wind, debris, and eventually need to be replaced.

But, when is the right time to re-roof and replace your deteriorated roof?

When are simple repairs enough and time and cost-savings in order?

It’s not always an easy decision. If you replace your roof too soon, you’ll waste money that you could spend on other items. If you wait too long, you risk further home damage and extra expenses beyond the roof itself.

When to replace and re-roof depends on several factors, including the shingles’ wear and age, the climate in the area, and your home’s susceptibility to future damage.

Visual signs like lifted shingles, where shingle adhesion is now gone, wind uplift, hail damage, hail dents on soft metal, interior leaks, and more will often point an experienced roofing inspector in the right direction to help you make the best decision on what to do about your roof.

If you’re conflicted and can’t decide whether to replace or repair, read on – we’ll help you make the right call.

Since roofing replacement is a rather costly venture, most homeowners attempt to postpone it for as long as they can, especially if the roof has reached the stage where it’s beginning to have problems but is not completely shot.

The cost of a shingle roof has roughly doubled during the last 10 years, so most often repairs might seem more desirable for the homeowner. Yet, many local roofing contractors will push unnecessarily for complete replacement; seemingly more focused on their bottom line than what’s best for their customer.

So what’s the right call?

10 Factors To Consider In Deciding Whether To Repair Or Replace

• You roof’s age is often one of the most important considerations. Most asphalt shingles have a lifespan of about 15 – 30 years. If part of the roof is damaged but the majority of the roof remains undamaged and in good shape, a spot repair may make sense. But, if the roof is approaching 20+ years old, replacing it may be the better way to go long-term.
• What does the local building code say about it? Did you know that Florida Building Code says that if 25% or more of the roof has sustained damage, then it must be replaced and repair is no longer an option? Meeting with a qualified field adjuster is important to make sure that this step is understood well.
• What does your insurance company say about it? Are you covered? The insurance process can be very rigorous and often misunderstood by well-intentioned and well-informed homeowners. From initial inspection to proper damage estimation using an industry standard software like Xactimate, Skymark Roofing does it right. Homeowners deserve and insurance companies demand proper standards when it comes to proper replacement and repair of your roof.
• What if there’s a leak somewhere? Is it localized? Do you know how widespread it is? An inspection will help you determine what’s really going on. Often, roofs will leak along flashing points. If this is the case, and the leak is isolated, a quick repair may be all that is necessary. If the roof is leaking in several places, a roofing replacement may be in order. Visual signs like lifted shingles, where shingle adhesion is now gone, wind uplift, hail damage, hail dents on soft metal, interior leaks, and more will often point an experienced roofing inspector in the right direction to help you make the best decision on what to do about your roof.
• It’s a good idea to give some thought to how long you intend to be in the home. If you’re planning to sell in the next few years, and the roof is in generally good condition, it may make more sense to have repairs done vs. replacing the entire roof. But if you plan to stick around for some time, a proper investment into a new roof can reap rewards for years to come.
• Thinking about putting your home on the market and selling your home soon? Did you know that a new roof can actually increase the resale value of your home? A detailed home inspection process will always uncover the age and condition of your roof and if a roof is near time for replacement, those figures tend to decrease the overall value of the home.
• Do you feel a bit more environmentally friendly and aware today than you were when you last replaced your roof? If you opt to replace your roof, you may be able to incorporate environmentally friendly features that qualify for local or federal tax credits to offset the cost. Also, new materials are generally more energy efficient, last longer, and perform better so an upgrade is desirable long-term.
• Ask us today how you can actually save money on your insurance premiums! Throughout the roof replacement process, you may find that the type and quality of roofing material you use can qualify you for significant discounts on your homeowner’s insurance policy. Materials that are more resistant to fire or wind and hail damage will often result in lower rates. Be sure to ask what types of materials your home might qualify for and we’ll help you navigate the process with your insurance company.
• Sometimes a new layer of shingles can simply be laid on top of the existing shingles, avoiding the time and cost of removing the existing roof. A qualified roofing inspector can help you understand if your roof can handle another layer of shingles on top of the existing. At the same time, removing the old shingles will allow for a proper inspection of the roof deck or sheathing, and add ice-and-water-shield membrane along the eaves (which can only be applied to a clean deck and will help prevent costly wind and water related damage).
• If you’re thinking about replacing your roof, don’t forget to consider “hidden costs” that might not come out in the first estimate; including gutter replacement or landscape damage. A reputable roofing contractor like Skymark Roofing will produce a comprehensive estimate detailing all of the project’s costs; beyond just the cost of the shingles alone.

Repairs are less expensive but tend to be more of a short-term solution, while a new roof is a big expense but should last you for decades. Either way, make the right decision today and you won’t have to worry about leaks and damage when storms roll through.

Skymark Roofing Can Help

We work regularly with homeowners considering the “replace vs. repair” question. As experienced residential roofing contractors, our dedicated team of professionals is ready to help you with making the right decision for YOU. We will give you sound, impartial advice on what preventative measures can be taken to extend the life of your roof, and whether replacement of repair is the better decision.

Whether you need quick repairs or a complete replacement, we take each project seriously.

All of our inspections are free and no obligation. We’ll check for any types of storm damage related to sun, wind, water, hail, or even hurricane debris.

Skymark roofing is well known for creating a seamless partnership between the homeowner and the insurance company, ensuring that everything is done right, to code, on time, on budget, and to everybody’s satisfaction.

Skymark Roofing is a locally owned and operated full-service roofing company in Mount Dora, FL.

Our team brings over 35 years of local roofing experience, ranging from new construction to storm damage restoration.

In addition to being a Florida license roofing contractor focused on residential and commercial roofing, Skymark carries full workers compensation insurance and general liability insurance.

Skymark Roofing was built by first responders and military veterans who serviced the construction industry after serving our country and community.

Call today for a Free Estimate: 352-805-8935.
From new roof installations to comprehensive repairs, we’ve got your covered!

We service residential and commercial storm damage roof inspection and roof repair customers in Alachua, FL, Apopka, FL, Bradenton, FL, Clearwater, FL, Eustis, FL, Gainesville, FL, Jacksonville, FL, Lady Lake, FL, Lake County, FL, Lakeland, FL, Lutz, FL, MT Dora, FL, Orange County, FL, Sarasota, FL, Tampa, FL, Tavares, FL, The Villages, FL, Wesley Chapel, FL, and other areas nearby. Check out our local service areas.