Whether newer or older, or shingle, tile, metal or shake, your roof protects one of your most cherished and important investments — your home. When your roof has sustained damage, either suddenly or by natural decline, you’re going to ponder the “patch or replace” question.

In reality, replacing any roof isn’t a matter of if but a matter of when — now or later. To make an educated and logical decision how to best protect your overall investment, you are going to need facts, figures and a professional assessment of the condition of your roof. Here’s what to know about your patch-or-replace dilemma.

Roof Inspection

The first task on your patch-or-replace list is to obtain a professional roof inspection. Not only do you need to know the extent of the damage and the estimated cost to patch your roof, you need to know the current condition of your entire roofing system — frame, deck, soffits, fascia, gutters and insulation.

Misery loves company, as the adage goes, and damaged or missing shingles or a soft spot on the roof decking may have contributed to, or may be hiding, more extensive underlying problems. You don’t want to pay for an expensive bandage when you can put the funds toward a solid solution.

Additional costs to a seemingly straightforward patch could be roof leaks, mold and mildew on framing and insulation, a sagging gutter, decay at fascia and soffits and water leaks down exterior walls.

Age of Your Roof

Sometimes the age and condition of your roof can make your decision simpler. Why put money into a system that’s at the end of its useful service life? There are obvious indicators your roof has seen better days.

  • It’s 20 years old or more.
  • You see shingle granules in the gutters and downspouts.
  • This isn’t your only repair in recent years.
  • Shingles are curled, uneven, torn and/or faded.
  • The damage is at or near a roof valley.
  • Loose flashing is a problem.
  • There are soft spots on your roof.

Patching Vs. Replacing and Lifetime Cost

If your roof is in generally good condition apart from the needed patch, ask your contractor to calculate the estimated lifetime cost of patching vs. replacing your roof. The lifetime cost number factors the cost and, better yet, the savings a roof replacement, or not, has on other areas of your home and budget.

  • A high-quality roof replacement may save you money each month with lower energy bills.
  • Talk to your insurance company to determine if you will receive a reduced rate in your policy by replacing your roof. Tip: work with a roofing contractor that will give you an accurate assessment and has extensive experience working with insurance adjusters.
  • You may be more susceptible to additional repairs down the line if the roof repair is due to aging and a weakened roofing system.
  • Sagging and leaky gutters may be harming your exterior walls and foundation. If this is the case, the cost of a repaired or new gutter system should be considered.

Talk to an experienced and reputable roofing contractor that can guide you through the decision to patch or replace your roof. Contact Welter Construction today for the best results!