Extensive damage and a poor appearance can make you wonder whether to repair or replace your Baton Rouge home’s roof. Repairing it can readily address minor damages, while replacing it can provide you with more peace of mind. Before you decide, identify common factors to consider when repairing or replacing the roof.
When to Repair Your Roof
Several scenarios justify repairing your roof rather than replacing it.
Minor Leaks
Minor roof leaks are best repaired and do not necessarily require replacing the entire roof. This is especially true if the leaks are not widespread but instead located in a single area. It is also the better option if the leaks are around the flashing or vents.
A Few Missing or Damaged Shingles
Factors like windstorms and heavy precipitation can loosen and damage roof shingles. Still, a few missing or damaged shingles do not require a full roof replacement. Instead, spend less time and money on replacing or repairing the affected shingles.
Localized Storm Damage
Similarly, it is better to address localized roof damage with professional repairs. For example, if a tree branch lands on one side of the roof, hire our roofers to remove it. We can also repair damaged shingles, flashing, and other roofing materials as needed.
Small Cracks
Our roofers can repair minor cracks in shingles. If the cracks have not spread widely, they often require relatively minor fixes, such as sealing or caulking. Repairing small cracks before they become larger ones helps ensure the shingles last longer and maintain your roof’s intact appearance.
Loose Flashing
Over time, flashing around the chimney, skylight, and vents can come loose. Even so, loose flashing does not require a full roof replacement. Professional roof repairs, such as securing the flashing, sealing the gaps, and replacing damaged sections, are the better option for this case.
Limited Algae or Moss Growth
The high humidity and rainy weather in Louisiana create ideal conditions for moss and algae to grow on rooftops. This growth makes your home’s roof look unappealing and can weaken the structural integrity of shingles and other materials. Still, we can easily remedy this issue with low-pressure washing and diluted bleach solutions.
Granule Loss
Factors like age, exposure to UV rays, and hail can contribute to granule loss on your roof’s shingles. Granules are important because they provide UV protection, waterproofing, and durability to the roof.
Damage from Ice Dams
When freezing weather hits Baton Rouge, it can increase the risk of ice dams forming in your gutters. Ice dams damage the roof by trapping water and allowing it to seep under the shingles. This damage requires professional roofing services to repair.
Wind Uplift
Wind uplift refers to the upward suction force that wind pressure differences create. It lifts roofing materials off the roof deck, leading to significant damage.
Inclement weather, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, is often the cause of this threat to your roof. However, wind uplift can also occur on the roofs of high-rise buildings and homes with complex roof geometries.
Newer Roof
Please consider the age of your roof before deciding whether to repair or replace it. Repairing it may make more sense and cost less if the roof is less than 10 to 15 years old and otherwise in good condition.
When to Replace Your Roof
Several factors make replacing your roof a better option for your home.
Advanced Roof Age
Just as age can factor into roof repair, it can also justify replacement. If your roof has been in place for decades, it may be time to consider a replacement. Rather than investing in repairs, invest in replacing it with a new roof.
Constant Roof Repairs
Similarly, the costs of frequent repairs can add up quickly. If the repairs add up to more than half of the roof’s value, the roof serves as a clear sign that you should replace it.
Widespread Storm Damage
The turbulent weather in Louisiana can wreak widespread havoc on your home’s roof. If it has extensive areas, you may find it best to avoid patching and repairing each one. Replacing it may cost as much as, or less than, the cost of individual repairs.
Roof Sagging
Sagging is an emergency; please call us immediately. A sagging roof will soon collapse, causing extensive damage inside your home.
Likewise, there is often no low-cost and quick fix for it. Instead, we will need to tear off and replace the roof to prevent severe damage to your house.
Energy Inefficiency
A sound roof is critical for your home’s energy efficiency. When your home allows conditioned air to escape, your HVAC system must work harder. This exertion wastes energy and raises your monthly utility costs. Save money in the long run by replacing the roof.
Persistent Rot, Mildew & Algae
Algae and mildew that grow on your roof can cause it to rot and weaken. This issue can lead to problems such as sagging and water leaks. It also attracts pests like beetles and termites.
Rotted, old, and soaked shingles are to blame for this growth. To prevent further damage and improve your roof’s integrity, hire us to replace the affected roofing materials.
Home Renovation & New Home Additions
When you renovate your home, you have the ideal opportunity to install a brand-new roof. A new roof will protect the other home improvement projects within the house.
It will also add value and visual appeal. Likewise, when you add on to your house, you will need new roofing to cover these additions.
Upcoming Home Sale
If you plan on listing your house for sale, you may want to replace the roof first. A new roof is often a major selling point for homeowners.
Potential buyers prefer homes with newly constructed roofs that will last for years and may require few or no immediate repairs. You may also list your home at a higher price to recoup the cost of replacing the roof.
Expired Warranty
Warranty coverage ensures that any roof issues caused by poor installation or faulty materials are covered. Once your warranty expires, it’s wise to invest in a new roof that comes with labor and manufacturer warranties.
Local Insightful Roofing Decision Guide
Lifetime Roofing is the right choice for a reliable roofing inspection before deciding whether to repair or replace your roof in Louisiana. Our locally owned business employs licensed and certified roofers. We additionally offer same-day services. As our customer, you can rely on us for a complimentary upfront estimate. You also receive workmanship and labor warranties on roofing materials and services.
Contact Lifetime Roofing for roof repair in Baton Rouge today.
