When it comes to roofing, not many people are experts. It’s hard to tell when damage can easily be repaired or when you’d be better off replacing the whole roof. Unfortunately, some roofing companies rely on this uncertainty and will tell you the whole roof needs to be replaced over some minor damage just so they can get a larger paycheck.
At First Choice Roofing, we don’t operate like that. We count on the trust and satisfaction of each of our clients, and we always want to provide the best possible service. Because of that, we want to give you a guide on how to tell whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced.
Replacing Shingles
If you have a shingled roof, the good news is that asphalt shingles are specifically designed to last for decades. In some cases, roofing damage is limited to the shingles, and it’s fairly easy to just replace the shingles that have been damaged. However, if there is any damage to the underlayment or decking, that’s where things get a little more complicated. If the damage is extensive, meaning water has leaked all the way through to the inside of your house, a replacement is a better option.
It can also be difficult to match new shingles to the old ones, depending on how old your roof is. The shingles on your roof are exposed to snow, sun, and rain, so they often fade over time. While this makes a cosmetic difference, the bigger issue is that the older shingles are often brittle or have changed shape, so adding new ones may not always be the right choice. If the section is small or in an inconspicuous area on your roof, you’re probably fine with a simple replacement.
Patch Jobs
If you want to know if a damaged part of your roof can be patched, give us a call! Our experienced contractors will perform a thorough inspection of both your roof and the planks in your attic to make sure that damage hasn’t extended to the inside of your home and repairs are possible.
Some things you can look for on the outside of your home that hint at major damage are shingles that have started to curl at the edges or granules on the ground around your home or in your gutters.
You may also notice sagging in your roof. If that’s the case, give us a call as quickly as possible. In the case of sagging, the entire roof needs to be replaced as soon as it can be.
Adding an Extra Layer of Shingles
While most building codes allow homes to have up to two layers of shingles, adding an extra layer won’t necessarily solve the problem if there’s already damage under the shingles. While the new layer may stop any new leaks from happening in the short-term, it won’t fix any damage that’s already been done, and moisture in your attic can rot the decking and cause further problems. Plus, if you do have another leak, later on, it’s going to be much harder to find it under that second layer.
Other problems that come with adding a new layer of shingles are the extra costs associated when it does come time to replace your roof. Because the roofers will have to pull off an extra layer of shingles, it’s going to take longer than if they just had the single layer. Additionally, you may void the warranty on your roof by adding that second layer.
Full Replacement
If you think it might be time for a full roof replacement, contact First Choice Roofing. We are a trusted, local company that will shoot straight with you and make sure we’re doing what’s best for your home and budget. There are several different factors that will go into our decision to replace your roof.
Recent Major Storms - In Lexington, we’ve had a lot of wind and even a little hail lately. With severe storms, there’s a higher likelihood that your roof will have suffered extensive damage and need to be replaced completely. Tornados, hail, and severe thunderstorms are the typical culprits of this kind of damage.
Roof Age - If your roof is only 5 years old, but you’re already having issues, you’re most likely having a problem with installation or material defect. However, if you have a 20-year-old roof or older, it’s likely at the end of its life and will need a complete replacement.
Water Damage - It’s easy to see the power water has in nature, so it makes sense that water would be a factor in determining whether your roof needs to be replaced. If water leaks through your roof into your attic, it can cause major damage and even spur mold and mildew growth, leading to health problems. If the paint in your home starts to peel or you notice brown spots on the ceiling, it’s probably time to replace your roof.
Construction Materials - Naturally, different materials have different shelf-lives. Traditional asphalt shingles normally last about 20 years, while their newer, more modern counterparts can last up to 50! Metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years. Occasionally, you’ll also find shingles made of slate. These are incredibly durable and can last anywhere from 75 to 200 years.
To get trusted, expert advice on whether your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, contact the professionals at First Choice Roofing today! We’re offering free quotes, free inspections, and $150 off your repair and replacement for new customers.
We provide a full selection of repair, replacement, and construction services to make sure your roof is in perfect working order for your home. We are conveniently located in Lexington, KY, and we proudly serve the surrounding Central Kentucky area, including Nicholasville, Harrodsburg, Winchester, Versailles, Georgetown, and Richmond. Let us keep you covered!