Repair, Patch, Or Replace—That Is the Question

Undeniably, one of the most crucial components in your home's overall longevity and protection is its roof.  Under that roof is all you hold dear in your lifetime—your dear loved ones and your precious possessions.  However, reality sets in, and at some time, you will need to realize that your roof will not last forever.

If the roof on your home is two decades or more old, we highly suggest that you reach out so a professional roofing contractor for an excellent overall inspection. The inspection will provide vital information, such as any damage to the roof, and if so, the assessment will pin point where the damage may be located.

If caught in time, some damage will only require you to patch or repair your roof.  However, if any damage is let go too long, there is the distinct possibility that you may find you may need total replacement.  The professional you hire to inspect your roof will determine the best course of action in your particular situation.

The first area that a professional will closely inspect will be the shingles.  The shingles are your roof's first line of defense against the harsh element and everything that nature may throw at it.  Some tell-tale signs of issues are granule loss, gaps, dents, cracks, or any evidence of missing shingles.

If the inspecting contractor indicates that the roof needs replaced, we suggest you do not opt for repairs instead.  It could lead to replacement down the road and prove more costly in the long run.

Roof Problems—The Common Signs

Until something happens or goes fatally wrong, homeowners are often unaware that their roofs may need repairing.  However, it only follows that as the years pass and your roof has been exposed to flying debris and strong damaging winds, problems will eventually occur.

Some signs that commonly indicate that your roof may need replacement include:

-  Shingles that are cracked, curled, or missing

- Areas that are discolored or appear to be sagging

- Granules lying in or clogging up downspouts or gutters

- Water stains that are seen on the interior spaces of the home

- Attic has visible light coming through

- Attic showing signs of wood-rotting

- Siding showing signs of wood-rotting

- The appearance of algae, mold, or mildew growing on the roof

If you choose to ignore one or all of these problems, your situation can quickly escalate to the only choice being the total replacement of the roof.  The faster you can get your roof inspected, the quicker the problem can be handled

Repair, Patch, or Replace

When they realize that there is an issue with their roof, most homeowners hope that only a repair or simple patching is needed and not a total roof replacement.  Newer roofs may be adequately repaired or patched if needed, but older roofs are more likely to need repairs of an extensive nature if not an entire roof replacement.  Never try to determine the extent of the damage yourself, and call on a professional to make a thorough inspection.  

When it comes down to the time to determine if a repair, patch, or replacement is needed, there are a few areas to consider:

-  Age

When deciding if you want to repair, patch, or replace your roof, an essential factor to consider is the roof's age.  Weighing the current age of the shingles against any possible visible damage to determine your next step

-  Leaks

If your roof develops a leak, it doesn't necessarily mean that it needs a complete replacement.  Most leaks, especially if they appear in an isolated area, will suffice with repairing or patching.  However, if there are multiple leaks across the structure, then a replacement may be needed.

-  Extent of damage

Much as with leaks, if you are having issues across the entire structure—including shingles and flashing—the odds are pretty good that you will need a replacement. If left unchecked, you are running the risk of severe structural damage, which will be even more costly in the long run.

-  Your area

The area in which you live can significantly play a part in the life span of your roof.  If you live in a location known for adverse weather such as strong winds or hail, then your roof is constantly being bombarded.  Several fluctuations from one temperature to another can also take their toll on your roof.

-  Costs

Logic only follows that repairing or patching a roof will prove much less costly than a total replacement.  It also holds that if you choose to repair or patch your roof year after year, the overall cost will soon begin to add up, and in the long run, a total replacement may have been the best option, to begin with.

-  Time of residence

How long you intend to stay in your curren tresidence will also play a significant role in your decision.  Take into consideration if the roof still has some years left on it or is quickly approaching its life span.  If you intend to remain in the home, consider replacing the roof; however, if you are considering selling, work at making any necessary repairs and patches.

If you find you need a roofing contractor in the Woodlands, Tomball, Spring, and Conroe areas, look no further than the most trusted roofing company in Texas, Service First Construction.  We offer and provide a wide range of roofing services, including roof installation, roof repair, roof maintenance, and various other construction services.

Contact us today, and we would be happy to schedule an appointment time that works within your schedule to answer any questions or concerns you may have.