When was the last time you looked at or thought too hard about your house’s roof? If you’re anything like most homeowners, you may not consider the overall health of your roof until it’s too late. However, understanding what condition your roof is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent potentially major damage to the rest of your home.
Or maybe you have unfortunately seen signs of water damage on your ceilings or walls and are wondering what to do next – if you need a new roof or if you just need some simple repairs. Read this guide to understand when you need to call a professional roofer and decide if you need a roof replacement or if you only need a few repairs.
When to Know You Need to Call a San Diego Roofing Company
If you own your home, it’s vital you keep an eye on signs of damage or wear and tear that can weaken your roof’s integrity. Call a roofing company in San Diego if you see any of these signs:
- Shingles with curly edges or shingles that have become entirely concave
- Shingles with bald spots from worn-off granules
- Visible cracks in your shingles, tiles, slate, or whatever material your roof uses
- Moss growing on or between shingles
- Your roof is 20 years or older
Signs You Need a Full Replacement
The first sign you may need a full roof replacement is that your roof is at least 15 years old. Most roofs last between 20 and 25 years, so once yours gets old enough, it will be more cost-effective to replace it rather than repair it. Older roofs will require more frequent repairs, which can quickly add up to more than a replacement.
Roofers can’t repair damage to your roof’s underlying structure without removing and replacing the shingles. If the damage extends beyond the shingles, it’s more cost-effective to replace the whole roof. Getting a new roof will also uncover any problems you may not have known about, preventing it from causing damage in the future.
If the damage to your roof is extensive enough, it may actually be cheaper to replace your roof. Repairs carry a higher cost per square foot, so large repairs can be as expensive as a new roof. If your current roof is more than 15 years old, putting on a new roof can actually be cheaper in the long run than paying for multiple small repairs.
Finally, if you are considering selling in the next five years, puting on a new roof has one of the highest rates of return of any home improvement project, so there’s a chance you can make your money back when you sell.
When Repairs May Be Enough
If you find yourself in one of these situations, a limited roof repair may be the answer for you.
- The roof is only a few years old
- The damage is limited to a small area or only a few worn shingles
- You don’t have time for a full roof replacement
- Your budget doesn’t allow for a full new roof
When discussing your options with your roofer, think beyond the final price listed in the quote. As you now know, there are many factors that can impact your decision. Consider your roof’s age, the extent of the damage, and your near and long-term plans to make the best decision for your home.
