Is It Time for Roof Repairs or a Replacement?

All homeowners know that proper roofing is the best protection for a house. However, knowing when you're ready for roof repairs or a replacement is often a difficult decision. Roofing materials come in many styles and are made of many different materials, so there is no "one-size-fits-all" easy answer. Most homes today have modern asphalt architectural shingles that come in many varieties, although cedar shingles and clay tiles are also two popular alternatives. Thus, knowing when to install a new roof or when a roof needs repairing is an important, but often difficult decision to make on your own.

When do I need a new roof?
The first step needed is to determine whether or not you need a new roof in the first place. The following will help you identify the potential for roof failure. Remember that it is important to not delay an inspection because any roof damage can be causing unseen structural problems the longer you wait.

In The Home:
Very often, the first sign of roof failure is not on the roof itself but inside your home. Ceiling stains, flaking paint and plaster, peeling wallpaper, and discoloration near the wall/ceiling joint; though they may appear negligible, serve as advanced warning of future roofing problems. Stains may be caused by condensation in the attic or water seeping through the shingle covering, very often at joints and flashing in the roof.

In The Attic:
The attic space must be adequately ventilated and insulated otherwise condensation of interior moisture will occur. This can lead to ceiling stains or water leakage. After a heavy rain, check the attic for wet, darkened or stained decking and rafters. Moisture condensation may also accentuate any curling and clawing of the shingles on your roof. Moreover, wet insulation loses its effectiveness with a consequent increase in heating and cooling costs.

Outside:
If your roof is five to ten years old, it is time to begin routine visual inspections. Inspections should be done twice a year, usually in the spring and in the fall. The easiest problem to spot can be seen from the ground: if your asphalt shingles are brittle looking or curled at the edges, or if you start to notice a lot of the colored "gravel" in the gutters or along the roof drip line, that is a sure sign they will need replacing soon. If you do go up on the roof, be sure it's dry and to wear rubber-soled shoes for best traction and to avoid damaging the shingles. Be extremely careful if your roof pitch is steep, and avoid standing too close to the edges in case any of the roof decking is damaged and weakened underneath the shingles as it could give way, possibly causing you to fall off. If you are uncomfortable with the idea of climbing on your roof but suspect that problems exist, our trained inspectors will be happy to schedule an on-site inspection and, as always, our written estimates are free!

If you haven’t had your roof checked within the last ten years then it is highly advisable that you get it inspected as soon as possible. It may not be leaking yet but if you leave it much longer it could be.

Age: The biggest roofing killer is the age of the materials. When shingles begin to look worn this usually means they are. Even shingles that have a 40-year warranty should be checked every few years to spot possible problems that can still occur.

Repair or replace: Sometimes shingles can be simply blown off and merely need to be replaced, but if this is happening more and more often you may need to consider the possibility that the entire roof may need replacing. Repairing your roofing may cost less, but if you have to repeatedly repair it then it is usually a much more cost-effective solution to have new roofing installed. We will be able to help you assess the best option for your roof.

We Find and Fix the Most Difficult to Locate Roof leaks!
The roof is the main area of your house that is constantly exposed to the elements and it is vital that you not only have quality roofing installed, but that regular checks and repairs are carried out to ensure it’s long life. Consider the fact that all roofing is constantly subject to wind, rain, snow and sun and all the damage they can cause. As such your roofing is facing this damage 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and it should be given all the ammunition possible to complete its job.

You should realize that your new roofing and subsequent roofing repairs should be top notch to avoid any nasty accidents or surprises for as long as possible. Shingles are available in a wide variety of sizes and costs, but beware that cheaper shingles will start to show wear in as little as 3 or 4 years and can end up being virtually useless at providing you long-term protection. It is advisable to spend as much as you can possibly afford on buying top quality roofing shingles that will stand up to more than a few showers and windy days. Having new roofing installed can be a pricey affair, but regular check ups and minor repairs when needed can extend the life of your roof and help prevent, or at least delay, the worst from happening.

A Great Way To Save Money -
       Add a New Roof Over Your Existing Roof
Do you have one layer of roof shingles on your roof and the wood decking is in good shape? If so, you are eligible for a recover (layover) which will save you the tear-off and labor costs of a complete roof replacement.  For all roofs that have 2 layers or more, we highly recommend that all roofing materials be striped to the decking before installing a new roof system. We specialize in the tear-off and replacement of all roof shingles, such as Gaf, Certainteed, Owens Corning, Tamko, Elk, and more.

Our prices are extremely competitive! Call today to schedule your on-site consultation with one of our roofing professionals who will inspect your roof thoroughly, explain our warranty, and give you a free written estimate on all proposed work. You'll be very glad you did!