The roof is among the most crucial components that make up a home. From shedding water to the gutters to providing insulation, a roof plays a vital role in protecting the structure of a home and its occupants from outdoor elements like extreme temperatures, rain, sun, snow, and wind.
While roofs are typically long-lasting and made to withstand harsh weather conditions, sometimes the damage is inevitable. Once you notice signs of damage, you must act swiftly and call a roofing contractor for an inspection. Leaving a roof in disrepair can lead to serious health and safety concerns, including mold growth, fire hazards due to leakages, and more.
Often, it can be tricky to decipher whether you need a roof restoration or a replacement. So, how do you decide upon the more appropriate approach to this dilemma? Read on to learn more about this major home improvement project to make an informed decision for your property.
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Roof Restoration vs. Roof Replacement
A roof replacement involves stripping away all the old roof materials to make way for new ones. These can include shingles, roof vents, insulation, drywall, etc. Often, the support structure, like the rafters or trusses might also need to be torn off.
Whereas during a roof restoration, only the damaged section is removed, repaired, and replaced, while the underlying structure remains intact. The roofing contractor will clean the roof with a high-pressure wash, install new tiles, and apply a new coating to achieve a fresh, more revitalized appearance.
When To Get a Roof Restoration
The following are some reasons why you would want to restore your roof instead of replacing it entirely:
The Damage Is Minor
Many people decide to get a roof replacement after noticing signs of wear and tear. While a total replacement is advantageous in various ways, it is not always the best decision financially.
If your roof is structurally sound with no significant moisture damage or decay but has suffered minor damage like a few cracked tiles or rusted valleys, you can avoid the cost of a new roof and opt for a restoration.
A roof restoration is a cost-effective solution that can bring your roof back to its optimal, like brand-new condition.
You Want To Expand Its Lifespan
The average lifespan of an asphalt shingles roof is about 20 years. A roof restoration is a viable and cost-efficient way to expand the lifespan of the structure for another 15- 20 years, and regular maintenance and inspections can help add a few more years to it.
You Want To Save Money
A roof restoration is a less invasive process requiring fewer materials and manpower. As it does not involves peeling off the original structure, it is significantly less expensive and could save thousands of your hard-earned dollars.
Some advantages of a roof restoration include the following:
- Less costly
- Increases lifespan
- Takes less time
- Less disturbance
- Improved appearance
- More environmentally friendly
- Improved home resale value
When To Get a Roof Replacement?
Some roofing conditions are beyond repair. When replacing the shingles or resurfacing is not an option, reroofing might be required. The two primary factors that typically render a roof replacement crucial are the following.
The Roof Is Nearing its Lifespan
While roofs are designed to last decades, they do not last forever like anything else. The most common reason roofs need replacement is when the structure is nearing the expected end of its life. All roofs go through normal wear and tear and being as they age.
As mentioned, shingle or tiled roof commonly lasts 20- 25 years, whereas the average lifespan of metal roofing systems is between 40- 60 years. Extreme climate can accelerate the deterioration.
When your roof is nearing or has exceeded its lifespan, a complete overhaul might be a viable decision for the long term.
The Damage Is Beyond Repair
In certain situations, restoring a roof might be worthless. If there are signs of severe deterioration, like several missing or saggy shingles, leakages, mold growth, or extensive rust, do not be surprised if your contractor might push for a complete replacement.
Noticeable structural problems like water damage to the insulation or extensive damage like cracks, holes, or dents due to a natural disaster like a violent storm might also warrant a total replacement.
The need to replace the entire roof becomes even more evident if a large portion of it has suffered significant wear and tear or damage instead of being isolated to a small section or if the restoration cost is excessively high.
While a roof replacement is a hefty upfront investment and lengthy procedure, it also brings several benefits. Some additional reasons why you might want to consider this choice include
- A fresh, brand-new roof
- More cost-effective in the long run
- More long-lasting
- Increased energy efficiency
- Higher curb appeal
- Higher home value
Wrap Up
The roof is the first line of defense against outdoor elements, and protecting it is imperative for the safety of the home’s occupants and assets. While it is made to endure a lot of abuse, even the most well-maintained roofs will need restoration or replacement at some point. Making the right choice ultimately depends upon the age of your roof and the severity of damage it has undergone.
Consulting an experienced and skilled roofing contractor who will conduct a detailed roof evaluation will enable you to make the right choice based on their recommendations.
