Deciding between roofing repairs and roofing replacement can be stressful and complicated. Sometimes, a repair is all that’s needed, but a full-blown repair may be more cost-efficient in the long run. Making the right decision can go a long way in saving you money both in the short term and in the long term. Here are five things our team here at Cavalier Builders recommends considering when deciding between roofing repairs and replacement. 

1. Replacing Shingles

Sometimes, all your roof needs to look as good as new is replacing a few shingles. Your shingles are exposed to the elements, meaning it isn’t uncommon for them to become damaged. Replacing broken or missing shingles can help restore beauty and function to your roof.

Before making the choice to replace shingles, have a professional inspect your roof to ensure there is no underlying damage. If the damage to your shingles is substantial, perhaps it’s a better idea and better value to replace the entire roof. If your shingles are damaged or missing, don’t wait to replace them. Shingles protect your roof from moisture and wind. 

2. Damaged Areas on the Roof

If there is a certain part of your roof that is damaged, it’s understandable to want to fix only the damaged areas rather than replace the whole roof. However, patching can be troublesome down the line. Typically, in the case of a patch, the damaged spots are usually larger than a spot of a few missing shingles, making it difficult to blend in with the rest of the roof. 

Just like replacing shingles, it’s best to consult with a professional before making the decision. A professional will tell you if it’s best to simply patch the damaged areas or it makes more sense to replace the whole roof. A patch can extend your home’s lifespans but it can also damage your roof further. 

3. Signs of Moisture or Water Damage

Water can be a powerful force and it can be responsible for thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home. Once water has found its way under your roof’s shingles, it can quickly begin to wreak havoc. Water can even cause health problems for you and your family over time if not properly taken care of. 

Brown spots on the ceiling, peeling paint or mold are typically signs that your roof has experienced water damage. In the event of water damage, it’s best to just replace your entire roof. Any other type of repair will simply be placing a bandaid over the big problem. 

4. Age

It’s important to know how long you should expect your roof to last. If you’re experiencing issues with your roof and it’s relatively new, repairs should be able to do the trick. However, roofs don’t last forever and should be replaced when their lifespan runs out. 

The number of years you can expect out of your roof will largely depend on the material your roof is made out of. Slate, copper and tile roofs can last more than 50 years. Wood shake roofs can last around 30 years. Fiber cement shingles can last 25 years and asphalt roofs can last 20. Of course, climate and weather play a big role in how long you can expect your roof to last. 

5. Always Consult an Expert

We’ve already repeated this piece of advice several times throughout the article and that’s because it’s arguably the most important part. It may seem as though a simple repair may do the trick however, a trained professional can see things you can’t. Transversely, an expert may be able to tell you that a repair is all you need rather than a full-blown replacement.  

Roofing Repairs and Replacements in the Los Angeles Area

If you’re in need of roofing repairs or a replacement, our team here at Cavalier Builders is here to help. We have been offering roofing repair and replacement services throughout the Los Angeles area for over two decades. The roof protects you and your home from the elements and we want to be sure it’s doing its job correctly!