Roofing Repairs and Replacement: What Do You Need to Know?

Your roof does more than simply sit at the top of your home. It keeps the elements out and helps the whole house function. When your roof starts failing, you can feel it everywhere. There are drafts, leaks and possibly damage to other areas of your home.

Replacing a roof is a major home-improvement project. That said, not every leak, crack or chipped shingle requires a full tear-off. Some types of damage and wear are easy to fix with a repair — from a qualified roofing professional, of course.
How can you decide whether you need a full roof replacement or just a repair? Take a look at some of the signs that your roof is in need of a repair and what you need to consider. Even though you can certainly replace your roof if you see some of these signs, get an expert's assessment before making any major decisions. The pros can tell you what's in your roof's best interest and what they can do to fix it correctly the first time around.

You have a few shingles that are curving out or curling. Now what? If the shingles are few and far between, replacing the curled or broken shingles is the place to start. The same goes for shingles that are missing. One or two missing shingles is typically not a cause for concern. Your roofer can match the shingles and replace the ones that are missing.

Unlike a few broken, worn or missing shingles, large areas of damage may call for a roof replacement. If the shingles are in generally poor shape, more are curled or broken than not or there is an extensive area of damage, replacing them may be a quick fix that doesn't stand up to the elements in the long-run. In this case, replacing your roof can save you time and money. Instead of calling the roofer time and time again, a re-roof job takes care of the problem for years to come.

Do you have a drip coming from the attic? One little leak may not indicate a major problem. The key here is getting a pro to diagnose the issue. There are many different causes when it comes to leaks. A missing shingle or small hole can let water in. Any water that comes in can leak down into your home.

Keep in mind, leaks don't always come from the roof itself. Water can get in when flashing (the metal that covers areas that join together, such as the chimney and the roof) is worn, when the bricks on your chimney fail or when an attic window is left open or is cracked.

Unless there is obvious damage or your roof clearly looks worn, starting with a repair is a cost- and time-saving way to fix what's wrong and stop the leak.

When your roof nears the end (or goes past) its life expectancy, repairs may not make a difference. While they might provide fast fixes that keep the rain or wind out temporarily, it's likely that you'll have to get a new roof sooner rather than later.

How long will your roof last? The answer to that question depends on several different factors. Different materials last longer than others. For example, asphalt shingles can last 20 years, while metal and slate last much longer.

Along with the material that your roof is made from, how you care from it and where you live affect how long your roof lasts. If you regularly check your roof for problems, fix any areas that need repair and maintain it (cleaning off moss or any other growth), your roof may last longer. But if you let things go or live in an area that gets heavy, damaging storms, your roof will likely need a replacement sooner.

When it comes down to it, a leak or minor issue in a younger roof that is well-maintained is cause for repair and not replacement.

Are you having roof issues? Gurrs Roofing, Heating and Sheet Metal can provide you with the professional help you need