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Can You Patch a Roof Instead of Replacing It?
Roof leaks are a nightmare for homeowners. They pose a risk to the people occupying the building, they threaten property damage and risk the complete collapse of a roof.
Whether to patch the existing roof or replace it can be a dilemma. The decision should only be made after serious consideration and an assessment by a roofing expert.
Even a minor roof leak requires inspection by a licensed roofing contractor. The damage may be worse than it looks, so this is a crucial step before any further measures can be taken.
Extensive roof damage may catch you off guard. If you can’t afford a roof replacement on short notice, patching up the roof may be wise to avoid further damage to your property.
Having a roof expert inspect your roof regularly is a well-advised move. You’ll never be caught off-guard and in case of any repairs, you’ll be prepared.
Most roofs are built to last for decades. Nonetheless, even the best-installed roof requires repairs at some point.
As a homeowner, you should always watch out for obvious signs like water stains on the ceiling and missing shingles.
Consider the following factors to keep your roof in check.
• Causes of roof damage.
• Replacing vs patching.
• Roof repair and maintenance.
Causes of Roof Damage
Well-installed and maintained roofs can last 30 years. Regular inspections and roof repairs can help keep a roof functional longer.
The wear and tear of a roof is unavoidable and is affected by these factors.
Weather Damage
Think about it: rain, hail, sun, wind, storms, hurricanes… your roof bears it all through the different seasons. Weather is the main reason for roof wear and tear.
Rain is the major culprit in roof damage. It’s imperative that step flashing is correctly installed for proper drainage of rainwater.
Stagnant water on a flat roof causes mold and vegetation growth. This results in the deterioration of the roof.
When hail hits the roof, it causes an indentation on the roofing material. This results in roof leaks.
Though it’s impossible to avoid weather damage on an old roof, it’s important to have a roofing expert come and inspect it, especially after a major storm.
Ventilation and Insulation of the Attic
The proper ventilation and insulation of an attic are crucial to keep a roof in good shape.
Intake and exhaust vents allow continuous circulation of air which helps preserve the durability of a roof.
During the colder months, warm air caused by activities inside the building rises through the ceiling and builds up in the attic. Without an outlet, the warm air turns into water vapor which causes the roof sheathing to rot.
In warm weather, a poorly ventilated attic will cause overheating. Combine that with humidity-related moisture and you have molding and rotting of insulation and a leaking roof.
Poor workmanship
After you’ve invested your money in a roof, you expect it to last as long as possible to get value from your money.
Poor workmanship by an inexperienced roofing contractor is a nightmare for homeowners. If you have a leaky roof only a few years after installation, you’ll be counting losses.
An experienced roofing contractor will do a clean job and your roof will last longer, giving value for your investment. When it comes to patching or replacing a roof, they’ll also advise on the best way forward.
Replacing vs Patching a Roof
Whether to replace or repair a roof may be a dilemma. Always seek the guidance of an experienced roofing contractor to guide you on how to go about it.
When to Replace a Roof
When a roof is maintained properly, it may go through its lifespan without any failure. However, if a roof replacement is delayed, it may cause further deterioration and cost even more afterward.
Replace a roof when:
• The cost of doing repairs is more than half the price of getting a new roof.
• The roof has extensive damages after a major storm or other natural causes.
• Repairs have been done too many times.
When to Patch a Roof
A roof leak poses damage to your attic insulation and electrical wiring. It also poses damage to property. It’s imperative to repair damaged shingles as fast as possible to avoid repairing the entire roof.
Patch a roof when:
• The damage is only minor and requires a few shingles to stop roof leaks.
• You have a leaky roof and don’t have enough money to replace the entire roof.
• There’re missing shingles on the roof, even if there are no leaks.
| Patch | Replace |
| Minor damage | Major damage by natural causes |
| Limited budget | The cost of repairs is more than 50% of the cost of the roof when it was new. |
| The roof is fairly new | The roof is old |
| You’re on short notice | The contractor advises a need to replace |
Hire a Roofing Contractor to Inspect Damaged Area
The inspection of a leak’s location should only be done by a qualified roofing expert. It may be tempting to climb up on the roof and check yourself but don’t.
Displaced shingles are dangerous and you could slide and fall. You don’t need the stress of injury when you’re already worried about a leaky roof.
A roof expert will be able to point out the damaged area and recommend the best way of fixing it.
Roof Leak Repair and Roof Maintenance
Roof maintenance can help find roof leaks and solve problems in your roof before you’re obliged to replace the entire roof.
Besides, the proper maintenance of a roof will help it last longer which means you get full value for your money.
Tips for Extending your Roof’s Lifespan
• Do not postpone fixing leaks as they cause further damage to your roofing system and could collapse your roof.
• Avoid having people walking on your roof as this weakens it and may cause damage.
• Get your roof cleaned regularly to remove moss, unclog gutters and drainage,
• In case of a major storm, have your roof inspected.
Your roofing contractor must ensure that your entire roof system is functional to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Plan a Budget
Repairing an existing roof may cost a considerable amount of money. If you don’t have enough money, you can consider financing the cost of a new roof.
If you have insurance, it’s a good time to get in touch with your insurance company to file a claim.
Repairing damages on your home’s roof is highly determined by the roofing material and the time it will take a roofing professional to make the repair.
Hire a Roofing Contractor
Roof repair and maintenance should only be done by a roofing contractor that is qualified and licensed.
Your roofing contractor should be dependable and available when you need services. They should be able to work within a reasonable range of the agreed timeline.
Ensure that they work under high safety operations and offer high-quality services.
Go for a company that has been in your area for a while, it means they’re good at what they do.
