Due to rising material costs, labor costs, and inflation, roof repairs have become far more expensive in recent years with studies showing an increase of around $2,000 on average per repair per year. As a homeowner, this means deciding whether your roof should be repaired or replaced has never been more financially significant. If the repair is insufficient to fix the core problem with the roof, you may pay for the repairs and still need a roof replacement in 1-2 years.
To help homeowners avoid this risk, our guide to roof replacement vs roof repair explains the differences between these processes and how to decide between them. An experienced contractor can help you determine your specific needs with a thorough roof inspection, but this guide can help you prepare and decide the best course of action for your budget and your home.
What are the Differences Between a Roof Repair and Replacement?
Roof repairs can be minor, moderate, or major, depending on the type and extent of the damage. Minor repairs usually involve small leaks and shingle damage, while replacing the decking, flashing, gutter, skylights, vents, trusses, chimneys, or underlayment falls under moderate and major repairs.
The cost of roof repairs can vary based on the extent of the damage, the surface features of your roof, the design or angle of your roof, and the materials it uses. For example, a wooden or slate roof will cost far more to replace than asphalt shingles. The roof of a rambler or colonial may be less expensive than the steep pitch of an A-frame.
These factors make broad repair estimates difficult; however, on average, most homeowners spend around $379-$1,755 for roof repairs, with an average being closer to $1,000. Depending on the size, materials, location in Maryland, and more, a full roof replacement may cost as little as $5,700 or as much as $12,500 or more, with an average of around $9,000.
Homeowners should note that repairs and replacements are not equivalent processes. A $9,000 roof replacement is more valuable than a $9,000 roof repair since a full replacement refreshes your warranty while replacing materials may still need to be repaired again in 1-2 years. However, on the lower end of the spectrum, a $1,000 repair may be worthwhile compared to a full roof replacement.
Weighing the cost and use benefits of each will help you determine the most advantageous project for your home.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Roof Replacements and Repairs
Consider these questions when trying to decide between roof repairs and replacements. An experienced contractor can inspect your roof and tell you how each of these issues relates to your situation, including your cost projections:
1. How Much Damage is There?
The extent of the damage is an important factor to consider. Your roof may have only been damaged in a storm after old shingles were damaged or lost. If the roof is leaking, the damage is likely more extensive, but only one section of the roof may be affected.
By determining the extent of the damage, you can decide whether the cost of repairs is justified compared to the cost of a full roof replacement.
2. How Old is the Roof?
While roofs should last 15 years or more, extreme conditions or storm damage can reduce their projected life span. The older your roof is, the more likely a full replacement will be more cost-effective than repairs. The quality of the roofing material also plays a large role in durability. Lower quality asphalt shingles can lead to a full roof repair at 10-15 years, where architectural shingles with quality underlayment can give a roof up to 30 years.
3. Is the Roof Still Under Warranty?
Your roof’s warranty is another important factor to consider. If the roof’s material warranty is ending soon, you may want to take advantage of repairing or replacing the damage, depending on your warranty’s terms. For those with tight budget considerations, this should be closely evaluated. An expert roof installer can explain the details and help increase the value of your warranty coverage.
4. What Materials Does it Use?
Different materials have different projected life spans and replacement costs which should be considered when deciding whether a repair is worth the cost. For example, asphalt shingles are less expensive than other options but have a relatively short life span. Slate tiles should last decades yet are far more expensive. The pros and cons of repairing or replacing either product should be evaluated by an experienced contractor to determine need and costs.
5. What is Your Budget?
Repairs can cost as much as $8,000 or more when using a more expensive material, or for more roof area. In those cases, a roof replacement may become a more sensible option in the long run. Depending on the severity of the roof condition, a contractor will be better suited to outline the best options.
6. Are the Repairs Urgent?
Living with a damaged roof while awaiting a full replacement is a potentially costly gamble. In the meantime, wind and rain can further damage your roof’s structures, in some cases leading to leaks that damage other parts of the house and lead to more expenses. Neglecting the condition of your roof can also lead to structural issues if the weight of the roof is not evenly distributed on the walls and supports. A roof inspection for expert analysis and options is the safest way to inform this critical decision.
Contact Expert Exteriors for a Professional Roof Replacement
Even after considering these issues, deciding between a roof repair and replacement can be difficult to do alone. Expert Exteriors will inspect the damage to your roof and determine whether repair or replacement would be the best option providing you with an easy to understand estimate, cleanliness and clear communication throughout the job, and a dedicated point of contact.
Contact Expert Exteriors to plan your roof repairs or replacement, starting with a thorough inspection to determine issues, damage, and the project that makes the most sense in your situation. See the difference quality customer service can make on your repair or replacement!