A homeowner’s biggest indecision come when it’s time for replacing your roof. Your roof is just like every part of your home’s exterior. It reacts to the elements and ages over time. Most homeowners deal with occasional roof repairs or having to add a new layer.
But how do you know when it’s time to move from roof repair to replacement?
Depending on the age of the roof, replacing your roof may be necessary. However, it’s possible that a simple roof repair could improve the life expectancy of your roof by years before needing a replacement.
Roof tear-off and replacement costs are inevitable when you’re having a major leak, but the gray area before an issue occurs can present more complex repair options.
It’s important to make a calculated decision that takes into account both your time frame and budget.
Here are several factors to think about when deciding on replacing your roof:
Age
The element of “age” includes both the age of your home and roofing system. How old is your roof? When’s the last time your roof was replaced? Have several layers been added on over the years? Either way, if your roof is over 20 years old, you will most likely need a complete replacement.
Not sure how old your roof is? An experienced roofing company near you can help visibly determine age by observing its quality and number of layers. They should also be able to answer any of roof replacement questions, including how often your roof will need to be repaired or replaced after they complete their work. Replacing your roof well is important, so the cheapest option isn’t always the best!
Material Options
What is your roof made of? Is it an older style material, like wood or slate, or is a modern type of asphalt shingle or metal roof?
How much will it cost for a tile roof replacement? What are the benefits of shingles vs. metal roofing? What’s the difference in cost replacing your roof vs. adding shingles?
Talk to a local roofing expert to learn which roof replacement materials or alternative repairs will work best. Once you can consider all of the possible types of roofing, you can choose which material will be the best possible option for your home and budget.
Weather
Your area’s weather has a major effect on the life expectancy of your roof. In Western New York, the odds are that your roof will endure several months of inclement weather. Ice and snow are common causes of roof damage, so it’s important to consider how many winters you’ve spent with your current roof.
Weather conditions, especially in Buffalo and the surrounding areas of WNY, can make a huge impact on roofing decisions—and potential home damages!
The best time of the year for replacing or repairing your roof is before the stormy winter season. Winter weather brings with it plenty of complications, including snow damage, ice damming, and troublesome leaks. If you’re worried about snow and ice damage, consider a roofing material (and company!) that will create a great roof that’s built to last.
Your Intentions
What are your plans for the property that you’re maintaining? When buying a house, always consider how long the current roof will hold up. If you’re looking to own a property in the long-term, the most important factor is how your roofing replacement materials will hold up over time.
Your plan may be different depending on whether you’re maintaining a home or income property. Do you plan on long-term ownership or on selling in the near future?
Either way, any Western New York resident can benefit from energy-efficiency and proper insulation. Regardless of intentions to occupy a property or sell it, the property value will always increase after a high-quality roof replacement.
“Red Tape”
When it comes to repairing and replacing your roof, it’s crucial to consider the licensing and building regulations in your area. Often times planning permission and permits and required. Local regulations typically require a building permit that follows standard building regulations that comply with your municipality rules.
If you’re dealing with a home inspection or appraisal, a licensed roofing professional is typically required when requesting any repair allowances. Don’t waste time with unqualified roofers who will lack the building license and permit (and possibly insurance) that you need.
Visual Inspection
When examining your roof, there are several signs that you may need a repair or replacement. Look out for shingles that are cracked or missing. If any shingles are curved or warped, have “bald spots” where granules are missing, or dark streaks caused by algae, it may be time to replace or moss growing on shadowy roof areas are all signs that you may need a new roof.
Time Frame
How long will it take, replacing your roof? Would a repair or added shingles be more effective? Do you have any pressing issues that need to be solved right away? Will the noise from roofing crews disrupt any local ordinances or events?
Time plays a huge factor when considering your roofing repair plans, so it’s important to discuss your time frame with a trusted roofing company, like Weather Resistors, that will be conscientious of the project’s scope and deadlines.
Financing
It can be difficult to spend your savings on a major home repair. Luckily, it’s possible to finance a roof replacement. Most established companies will offer roof replacement payment plans or varying programs to help you pay for your project over time.
Not sure how to pay for your roof replacement? Find a trusted company, like Weather Resistors of WNY, that will give you a fair and free estimate. We’ll make sure to protect your home using the best possible materials or roof replacement alternatives.
Bottom line—consider the age of your roof, the material it’s made out of, and the area that you live in. These factors can help you decide if the roof is due for an inspection.
See for Yourself
Sometimes the best way to know if you have a roofing issue is to simply LOOK!
However, not everyone has a safe means to reach their roof for a visual inspection… not to mention not knowing exactly what to look for.
At Weather Resistors, we’ve got an exciting modern option—we bring YOU to view the roof with us!
We know what you’re thinking but, no, you won’t be wearing our safety gear and climbing our ladders. You will, however, get the exact same view as our roofing team.
Our drone inspections provide every homeowner with an aerial video of their roof. This technology helps homeowners to make the best possible choice for their roofing repairs. Drone inspections allow our professional team to show you the damage for yourself and explain your options in detail.
To see your roof in detail and sort out your options, call or contact Weather Resistors Roofing for a drone inspection today!
If you already see some of the warning signs of roof damage, don’t wait for issues to occur before solving the problem. Contact our team at Weather Resisters for a fair and free estimate.
We would be happy to help you! Call us today: (716) 222-ROOF