When your roof has a problem, the first question is usually whether a repair will do or whether it is time for a new roof. The honest answer depends on a few key factors. Here is how to think it through.
When a repair usually makes sense
- The damage is limited to a small area, like a few missing shingles or a single leak.
- The rest of the roof is in good shape, with shingles lying flat and plenty of granules left.
- The roof is not near the end of its expected life.
- The problem is a specific component, such as a cracked pipe boot or loose flashing.
When replacement is usually the better choice
- Damage is spread across the roof, for example after a significant hail storm.
- Shingles are curling, cracking or losing granules on many slopes.
- You have had repeated leaks in different places.
- The decking underneath is soft, sagging or rotted.
- The roof is near or past the end of its expected life, and repairs would only buy a little time.
The role of insurance
If the damage came from a covered event like hail or wind, your insurance policy may pay for the repair or replacement, minus your deductible. That can change the math. A documented inspection is the first step. Our roof insurance claim guide walks through how it works.
Think about the whole picture
A patch on a worn-out roof can be money spent twice if the roof needs replacing in a year or two anyway. On the other hand, there is no reason to replace a solid roof because of one bad spot. The right answer comes from looking at the whole roof, not just the problem area.
Get an honest assessment
We inspect the entire roof, show you photos of what we find and tell you honestly whether a repair or a replacement makes more sense. Learn more about roof leak repair and roof replacement.
Need a roof inspection?
Emergency Roofing Solutions serves homeowners across Metro Atlanta and North Georgia. Call 404-474-4222 (a live person answers 24/7) or schedule a free roof assessment.