Roof Storm Damage: Should You Repair or Replace It?

If you’ve just been through a storm, chances are you’re staring at your roof wondering, “Do I just patch this up or is it time for a brand-new roof?”

It’s a common question, and the truth is, it depends on a few key things. Let’s break it down in plain English.

First Things First: What’s Going On Up There?

After the storm, do a quick walk around your home from the ground. Look for:

• Shingles missing, cracked, or lying in the yard

• Shiny spots on shingles where granules got knocked off

• Water stains inside your house on the ceiling or walls

• Areas that look saggy or uneven

If the damage looks small and limited to one spot, you might be fine with a repair. If it looks like your roof got beat up all over, replacement may be the smarter choice.

The most secure way to know the condition of your roof is to have it inspected by a professional. Most reputable roofing companies will provide a free inspection. This simple and quick inspection will provide you peace of mind, or the information you need to take action.

RoofClaim is always ready to help, schedule your inspection today! LINK

When a Repair Makes Sense

You can probably get away with just a repair if your roof isn’t that old, and only one section is damaged. A small leak that hasn’t spread or rotted the decking underneath the shingles may be repairable. For repairs to be possible it's important that you identify the damage quickly so that it does not become more widespread. A quick repair can save you money on not only the roof repair, but also limit your interior damages.

Repairs are quicker, easier, and less expensive. They’re perfect if the storm damage is minor and the rest of the roof is in good shape.

When It’s Replacement Time

Sometimes a storm is rough enough that repairing small spots won' cut it. A new roof is usually the better call if:

•  Your roof is already 15 to 20 years old.
•  There are leaks in different rooms
• Shingles are cracked or missing in big areas
• The wood underneath is soft or rotting.

Lifted shingles: High winds often loosen the adhesive seal under shingles, leaving them curled up or lifted. Once that seal is broken it allows water to enter and the shingle becomes vulnerable to blowing off completely in the next storm. In some cases, a roofer can re-seal shingles with special adhesives. But if the shingle is already cracked or too brittle, it can’t be repaired and needs to be replaced.

Repairability: As your roof ages and is exposed to the elements asphalt shingle roofs become brittle. The sun and climate cause the shingles chemical connections to degrade over time. The shingles lose their ability to be flexible, which causes cracking and splitting on impact. If a roofing contractor attempts to repair a roof that is in this condition, what starts as a small repair becomes more widespread. When the contractor tries to pull up neighboring shingles to install new shingles in the area needing repair they break apart, crease, and sometimes begin to disintegrate.

Trying to patch up a roof in this condition is like putting a Band-Aid on a broken leg. You’ll spend money on repeated fixes when what you really need is a full replacement.

Bottom Line

If your roof just took a beating, don’t wait. Water damage spreads fast and gets expensive. The safest move is to have a trusted roofing company check it out. They’ll tell you honestly if a repair will do the trick or if it’s time for a fresh start.

Not sure if you need a patch-up or a whole new roof? 

Fill our Free Inspection Form or call us at (770) 999-0095 for a free inspection. Better safe than sorry before the next storm rolls through.