Do you really need to replace your roof? Will a roof repair get you several years further down the road before you have to do a total roof replacement? Will the roofer you call have your best interests at heart or are they more concerned in filling their pocket by selling you an unnecessary new roof or an expensive roof repair?
Remember that the first thing a roofing sales person wants to do is to sell you a new roof. That is where the bigger costs for you are. The thinking is that you are never wrong to put a new roof on your home, but do you need one at this time?
You should know the age of your roof and the expected life of that roof system. If you are within the first 1/2 life of your roof and you have not experienced previous leak problems, then you most likely do not need to replace it. If you have experienced a lot of leaking in various areas around the roof, then it should be determined why the system is failing and what the outlook is for it before you accept the idea that a roof replacement is the greater benefit.
What does your roof look like from the ground? Walk around the perimeter of your home and notice whether the plane of your roof is level and reasonably smooth. Deep dips, jumbled up shingles, and tiles slipping out of position suggest that you are in need of some type of work. This can usually be seen from the ground.
As you walk around your home, pay close attention to the perimeter fascia boards. If you notice rotting or tannin staining, then you do have some leaking that may not have reached the inside of your home yet. If the damage is located to just a few small areas, they can be remedied by a repair. If they are through entire sections of your eves, then you are going to need to consider a greater replacement. Be sure to pay attention to cracks in stucco walls above the roof like chimney chases or two story side walls and the cracks below the roof. Cracked stucco walls mean water intrusion. We can help you determine these things.
If a roofer tells you that he can try to get you just a couple of years with a quick repair before you have to replace the roof, then the repair probably will not work. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation requires that a roofer is to provide a warranty for the work he performs. Whether or not it is written it is always implied if money has changed hands. This means that a professional roofer will not perform work that he cannot stand behind over a period of time.
The type of leaks you have, the number of leaks you have and the age of your roof will be the greatest determining factors that will be used to determine whether you need a roof repair or a roof replacement.
Have more questions? Contact us today!
