Asphalt shingles are
not designed to last forever, so eventually, you will need to think
about a roof replacement. Of course, not every roof problem
necessitates a new roof. Before you decide whether to repair or
replace, take the time to fully assess the current condition of the
roof.
Age and Condition
Many factors may
influence your decision on roof maintenance and replacement, but the
age and condition are perhaps the most important things to consider.
Expected Lifespan
The average lifespan
of an asphalt shingle roof is between 15
and 40 years
, but many factors can influence this number. If your
roof is approaching the maximum lifespan recommendations from the
manufacturer or roofing installer, then usually a new roof is a
better option than a repair.
On the other hand,
if your roof is still relatively new in regards to expected lifespan,
a repair may be a better option. Likely, the majority of the roof
probably has a lot of life left in it - as long as the damage is
limited to a localized area.
Past Repairs
A history of repairs
on your current roof can indicate you need to simply replace it. For
example, if your last replacement was an overlay or reroofing (where
new shingles are installed over the old), then extensive repairs may
not be possible and a replacement is a better option.
Frequent repairs are
another concern that may indicate that a replacement is a better
option. If damage keeps occurring, particularly in the same spot, or
if the damage has affected the underlayment and decking, a
replacement may be the only long-term solution.
Color Concerns
It can be difficult
to color match new shingles to old. The older the roof, the more
challenging a color match becomes. The color difference can make
anything but a small repair obvious, which will give the roof an
unattractive patchwork appearance.
If color is a
concern, then any patches necessary in highly visible areas may not
be acceptable. Only small patches and those on parts of the roof that
aren't highly visible will be suitable for repair as opposed to
replacement.
Damages
The type and extent
of the damage should also influence your decision on whether to
replace or simply repair the roof.
Active Leaks
An active leak needs
immediate addressing. If the leak is new and damage has not
progressed from the immediate area of the leak, then a repair is
often possible. Your roofing crew will patch or replace the section
of damaged decking, then they will replace the underlayment and
shingles.
The key here is to
catch leaks early. Monthly attic inspections where you look for wet
insulation, waterstained rafters, and musty odors can help you catch
a leak while a repair is still possible.
Rot Issues
Leaks that have gone
on for some time can lead to more extensive damages, particularly to
the roof decking. Once the decking begins to rot, a roof replacement
is the best option.
Rotted decking poses
more than a leak hazard. As the decking weakens, the roof can begin
to fall inward. Worse, the rot in the decking boards can spread to
joists and support beams, resulting in even more expensive damages to
the roof.
Flashing and
Seals
Shingles aren't the
only aspect of your roof to consider. Metal flashing protects roof
valleys and is also sometimes around the base of chimneys and other
rooftop appliances. Caulk, tar, and rubber boots are also sometimes
used to seal around rooftop items.
Fortunately, damage
to these aspects doesn't usually necessitate a full replacement as
long as leaks haven't compromised the decking below. You can simply
replace the flashing or boots and re-caulk or tar the seams, often
without the need for any shingle work.
Contact
Econo Roofing for more help with addressing your roofing concerns.
