Among the most important decisions any homeowner will make once their Knoxville roof starts to show signs of deterioration is whether to get it repaired or replaced. It’s a tough choice, and everything comes into play: cost, the extent of the damage, and how long the roof might last. Regular roof inspections, at least twice a year, can help catch problems early and make the decision easier.
This guide will help homeowners decide the best course of action between roof repair and replacement. We’ll discuss when it’s right, how much each costs, and what the benefits are in the long run.
1. How Old is Your Roof?
Firstly, be mindful of your roof’s age because different materials have estimated useful life spans in years:
Shingles:
These are the most common of all roofing materials and tend to last about 15-25 years. However, Cover Pro Roofing uses high-quality shingles from CertainTeed, which are designed to last over 30 years. Some CertainTeed shingles, like the Landmark Premium and Presidential shingles, can last up to 50 years. If you have roof damage, check the damaged shingles to see if they have reached the end of their lifespan.
Metal Roofing:
They can last anywhere between 40 to 70 years depending on. Unless your metal roofing only needs minor repairs and still has several years left in it, it usually advises getting it fixed.
Other Materials:
Tile or slate roofs can last more than 50 years. But if big parts are damaged, getting a new roof can help avoid problems later.
Roofs in these areas see some hard weather, so if yours is getting older, it may be better to replace them than continuously fix them.
2. How Bad is the Damage?
It is the condition of your roof and the damage that shall assist in deciding on what shall be better: repair or replacement. A professional Knoxville roofing company inspection will paint a clear picture of what should be done.
Minor Damages:
- Minor issues, such as a few missing shingles or a small leak, can often be repaired. For example, if your home went through a storm, you might only need to fix a specific area affected by debris.
Major Damage:
- Significant damage, like sagging or major leaks, often requires roof replacement. Extensive issues may lead to structural damage or mold. If your roof has been severely damaged in a storm, it’s worth checking with your insurance provider to see if the costs of a new roof are covered.
Where the roof has been severely damaged in a storm, it is normally much safer to completely replace it, especially in instances that may affect the safety of your home. Discuss this with the contractors who provide professional roofing solutions to avoid further damage.
3. What About the Costs For Roofing Services?
There can be a great deal of difference in cost. While repairs are usually cheaper upfront, replacing your roof might be the better deal over time.
Roof Repair:
- Repairs are typically cheaper upfront, especially for minor issues like shingle replacement or patching leaks, which can cost between $200 and $2,000. However, repeated repairs can add up, especially if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Roof Replacement:
- A full replacement is more expensive upfront but may be a better long-term investment. For CertainTeed shingles, the replacement cost can range from $7 to $13 per square foot, depending on the size of the roof and materials used. Keep in mind that CertainTeed shingles come with a lifetime limited transferable warranty and 10-year SureStart protection, which covers 100% of material and labor costs for defects.
Although seemingly expensive, replacing your roof may have its silver lining in terms of diminished repairs, better energy efficiency, and higher home value.
4. Energy Efficiency
An older or damaged roof means higher energy bills, especially during the very hot summer and cold winter seasons.
Roof Replacement:
- Newer materials, like metal, provide better insulation, but they also reflect heat. It keeps the home cool during summer and warm during winter. According to Cover Pro Roofing, a professional roofing company, with energy-efficient materials, cooling costs may be reduced by as much as 25% if replacement is done properly.
Roof Repair:
- While repairs can fix small or temporary leaks, they can’t improve the energy efficiency of your home if the roof is old or under-insulated. Replacing the roof with more efficient materials may be much better if your energy bills are touching the skies.
5. Time & Disruption
Consider how much repair or replacement would normally disrupt living.
Roof Repairs:
Repairs are generally done in one day or a couple of days. You are back to your life with minimum disruption.
Roof Replacement:
Depending on the size and complication of your roof, it could take several days to replace. The aftereffects, however, like lesser repairs and better durability, might be well worth the inconvenience.
6. Discussing Insurance and Warranties With Roofing Contractor
If your roof is damaged by a storm, insurance might cover repair or replacement costs. It’s important to consult with your certified roofing contractor to see what’s covered by the insurance company. Additionally, CertainTeed shingles come with a lifetime limited transferable warranty, offering homeowners peace of mind when it comes to the durability and longevity of their roofs and avoiding storm damage.
A strong warranty can make replacement a more appealing option, especially if it covers significant portions of the cost.
What is Best for Your House?
Decisions between the two depend on the age of your roof, the damage sustained during its lifetime, and your long-term plans. If it is a fairly new roof with minor problems, repairs would be one of the most affordable solutions. However, roof replacement by some certified installers is likely to be the better choice if it’s an older roof or major damage exists.
Whether it is a need for commercial roof repair or a residential roofing project, it is important to find the right professional roofing contractors in the Knoxville area.
Cover Pro Roofing, one of the top Knoxville, TN roofing companies, can help you decide what’s best for your roof. We provide high-quality work and achieve 100% customer satisfaction with our prompt service.
For an estimate, visit our website at https://www.coverproroofing.com/get-quote/ or call us at (865) 999-ROOF.
