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How to Know When You Need a New Roof
Perhaps high winds have just rolled through and damaged your roof. You are uncertain if you need a new roof or if you will be able to have roof repair work completed. Follow our simple guide on how to know if you need a new roof or can ask a roofing company to use roof repair techniques instead.
If your roof has a few weaker spots or is leaking, you may be able to have a roof repair service done. Many instances prove these are easy to patch over. However, for sustainable damage, it is best to have a completely new roof installed.
While there may only be a few places on your roof that need to be replaced, it may make sense to have the entire roof completed. In the long run, it can save you time and money.
One thing you will want to consider is how much you will be paying upfront for your roof. Ask the roofing company how much it would be to replace one side versus all four sides. If the quote turns out to be less money per sideto replace all four sides, it may be in your best interest to pursue this.
You will likewise want to consider when the last time the roof was replaced. If you last replaced your roof 20 years ago, and its shingles, it is time to consider a replacement. Each type of roofing material will have its own lifespan. Generally, the lifespans for these roofing materials are as follows:
- asphalt shingles have a lifetime of between 15 to 30 years
- composite shingles will last 20 to 50 years
- modified rubber shingles last for 30 years
- wood shingles will last for 30 to 40 years
- clay tiles should last for 50 years
- concrete tiles should have a lifespan of 50 years
- metal roofs should last for 50 years
- copper roofs have a lifespan of 60+ years
You will also want to consider that the older your roof is, the older the nails are. Old nails may not hold up as well in high winds.
If you have decided to replace the roof, you will first need to determine if you want to install the new roof over the existing roof or completely tear off the roof and start fresh. If your roof has only one layer of asphalt shingles, you may actually save money if you decide to rip them off. This is because, in windy areas, it makes a roof stronger if you nail the shingles right to the roof. And when you expose your roof deck, it makes it easier to see the damage that may be harder to see until there is a major issue.
When picking a new roof material, be sure to pick a material that is within your budget. Also, think about how long you want to live in your existing home. If you only plan on being there a short time, it does not make sense to invest in roofs that will last 80+ years. You should also think about the climate you live in, along with what sort of roofing maintenance there will be with the material you have selected.
It is important for you to make the right decision on if you need roof repair completed or a new roof. If you are not sure, you can ask a professional roofing company, such as Done Right Roofing Inc in Tampa, FL. This family-owned and operated company has assisted homeowners with their roofing projects for the past 25 years.