Repair, Patch, Or Replace?

It usually saves you money to repair something rather than replace it. This sentiment becomes more accurate when discussing expensive topics like vehicles or home parts. 

I doubt anyone is eager to replace their roof. So when weather strikes and causes damage, we’re probably more inclined to look for a simple patch or repair first. But how do you know which one your roof needs?

What Causes Roof Damage?

Contractors and roofing specialists usually check for specific signs when determining the best steps for your roof. Certain things typically indicate that it’s time for a roof inspection.

Weather

The first indicator is something we’re all familiar with: the weather. Nasty weather like monsoon rain, hail, and windstorms can push your roof to its limits. Even if a single atmospheric event doesn’t cause weather damage to your roof, repeated stressors can wear it down over time. 

Arizona isn’t a hotspot for hail, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t show up from time to time. The hard chunks of ice can wreak havoc on all roofs. However, wind, rain, and even snow in some parts of the state can damage your roof over time.

Moisture that lingers can creep into the underlayment and cause leaks in your home. Assess roofs for damage and leaks after any major storm.

Age

Just as we have to pay more attention to our health as we age, roofs need extra supervision near the end of their lifespan. All weather will slowly have an impact on your roof, no matter the material.

The most common type of roof, asphalt shingles, is typically built to last roughly 15 to 25 years. Other roof materials, like tile and metal, can last decades.

Signs You Can Patch Your Roof

Luckily, you can patch small leaks and minor damage. If most of your roof is in good shape and just a tiny area requires attention, it is often a quick and easy fix.

What Does a Roof Patch Entail?

A patch often entails replacing or re-adhering a shingle or tile. If you notice damage on a small piece of your roof, such as individual shingles that got brushed by a branch as it fell, you can usually get away with a small replacement. 

Patches are often superficial because just the outer layer is damaged. However, if you don’t fix it, even minor things can damage the rest of the house.

Can You Patch All Types of Roof?

Yes! Again, if a small part of your roof has superficial damage or a missing tile, it can be patched.

When Do You Need a Larger Repair?

When the missing shingle becomes a lot of missing shingles, or you’ve identified a leak inside your home, it may be time for a larger roof repair. 

While it may be a bigger job than a simple patch, many kinds of roof damage can be remedied and extend the life of your roof.

Roof Flashing Repair

Flashing is the metal seal around exterior roofing components such as chimneys and skylights. It usually is laid on top of the shingles to prevent water from seeping underneath them.

However, they aren’t immune to water or other physical damage. Flashing, too, can be patched if it only involves a few small holes. You may also be able to replace it easily if bent or broken.

Repairing Different Type of Roofs

Contractors can repair a variety of roofing types in similar ways. Usually, this involves more in-depth or comprehensive repairs of the outer layer, but homeowners also need to be aware of many other parts of their roof that might be damaged. Though, they each have their specialties.

Tile Roof Repair

Usually, the underlayment of clay tiles is felt. If the tiles shift or fall off, the felt can trap water and cause a leak. Once you identify the leak’s location, the contractor can fix the damage to the underlayment and replace the surrounding tiles. 

Slate roof repair is usually fairly simple if a tile is cracked or chipped. You’ll usually replace these as needed. But be wary of DIY repair, as slate tiles can be dangerous to walk on.

Shingle Roof Repair

Repairing a shingle roof can be extensive, as many missing or cracked shingles require replacement. Luckily, shingles are relatively inexpensive, so those repairs won’t break the bank.

Flat Roof Repair

Flat or low-sloped roofs are also susceptible to weather and leaks. They can be re-sealed from time to time if need be.

Metal Roof Repair

Metal roofs last an extraordinarily long time, so it’s essential to keep up with repairs as needed. You can efficiently patch holes and cracks and even care for rust and corrosion.

Sagging Roof Repair

A home’s structural integrity problems cause many sagging roofs. In these cases, you may have more significant issues on your hands. If the questionable structure is limited to your roof, a roofing contractor can make repairs. However, understand that it will be extensive and expensive.

How You Know It’s Time for a Replacement

Unfortunately, sometimes damage or age is past the point of repair, and it’s time for a complete replacement. While you won’t know what needs to happen until after an inspection, here are a few signs that a replacement is imminent.

Asphalt Grit in the Gutters

Asphalt shingles have small granules embedded on the surface. As they wear down, these granules will fall off and end up in your gutters. Once they lose grit, they aren’t sound enough to keep your home dry.

Curled Shingles

Asphalt shingles curl up in the corner as they age, rendering them incredibly ineffective. Once this happens, your roof is old enough to be replaced. 

Lots of Missing Shingles or Tiles

The general rule of thumb is that it’s time to replace your roof if over half of your shingles or tiles are missing or damaged. Damage can also include cracks or curling (in the case of asphalt shingles). 

While it’s possible to replace the missing shingles at this point, consider the age of your roof or damage to other parts. It’s probably more financially sound to invest in a new roof.

Extensive Leaks

Do you see a new water stain on your ceilings or walls every time you turn around? These leaks are probably from several different sources. Depending on the number of leaks or their severity, it’s likely time for a replacement. 

Figure Out the Next Steps with Legacy Repair

For one reason or another, you’ve decided it’s at least time to inspect your roof. Legacy Repair will come to your home and work on the next best steps with you. Whether it’s a patch, repair, or replacement, we’ll make sure your home is sound. Call us today.