Many homeowners find themselves wondering if they should repair or replace their roof. It all comes down to cost and how long you plan to stay in your home.
Roof repairs are good for addressing aesthetic damage, and for repairing small leaks in your home. But if you’re experiencing multiple leaks and structural damage, it’s time to consider replacement.
Cost
If your roof is structurally sound, you can opt for repairs instead of a full replacement. The cost of a roof repair depends on the type of work that needs to be done.
Typical roof repair costs include patching holes, replacing shingles, and re-sealing. Costs also include fixing sagging roofs or replacing damaged rafters.
Leaks are the most common reason for a Roof Repair in Kansas City MO. A small leak can be fixed with a patch, while a more extensive leak may require the entire roof to be replaced.
Leaks are often caused by a faulty installation, venting, or material other than shingles. Damage to the decking, rafters, and sheathing can also cause structural issues that need to be addressed with a replacement. A structural engineer will be required to assess these problems and determine the appropriate cost for a replacement. These costs can add up quickly. For this reason, it’s important to consider how long you’ll be in your house when deciding whether to repair or replace your roof.
Time
In general, repairs are faster and easier to complete than a replacement. This is because they typically involve fixing one or more of the elements of your roof, such as repairing leaks, re-caulking, replacing shingles, and improving ventilation.
However, the time needed to complete your repair may also be affected by the extent of damage that needs to be addressed. For example, if your roof is severely damaged due to weather or structural issues, it will take longer than simply repairing a leaky spot.
Homeowners should be aware that a roof replacement can be a loud process, so it is wise to prepare pets (cats, dogs, and even hamsters!) for the noise by moving them to another part of the house or asking a friend or family member to take care of them during this time. This can help reduce stress for the pets and prevent them from stepping on a nail they may have found.
Aesthetics
The roof is a prominent feature of any property and plays an important role in its overall aesthetic. A well-maintained and visually appealing roof can increase a home’s resale value and attract more buyers. It can also contribute to a sense of personal satisfaction for homeowners and occupants. In addition, many communities and homeowner associations have specific aesthetic requirements for roofs within a neighborhood to ensure a consistent and attractive look.
Facilities professionals should consider the extent of damage and the location before deciding whether to repair or replace the roof. Minor aesthetic damage can be fixed with a roof restoration, but structural damage will require a replacement. If a facility’s roofing inspector determines that the roof needs to be replaced, it is important to understand the benefits of a new installation.
Insurance
Depending on the severity of roof damage, home insurance may cover some or all of the cost to repair or replace. Check your homeowners policy to see if your roof is covered under the dwelling coverage section of your home insurance.
A standard home insurance policy usually covers 16 named perils, including fire, windstorms, hail and weight of ice, snow or debris. For homes in regions with high frequency of natural disasters, you might also have a special wind, hurricane or tornado policy for additional protection.
However, some insurance companies require a newer roof for full coverage or only reimburse based on depreciated value. Also, if you file too many small claims, your insurer might cancel your coverage altogether. If you plan on filing an insurance claim, be sure to document the damage thoroughly with photos, receipts and home inspection reports. This will help speed up the process and ensure your claim is approved. Lastly, be prepared to pay the applicable deductible in case your claim is denied.
