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Roof Repair vs. Replacement: Finding the Right Solution For Your Roof

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Roof Repair vs. Replacement: Finding the Right Solution For Your Roof

Finding the proper roof repair or replacement solution for your roof can be daunting. If you’re trying to figure out whether or not you need a new roof, we understand how difficult this can be. So many factors go into deciding what’s best for your situation, and it can feel like an overwhelming task to try to figure it all out.

We’ve heard from many people who felt lost when it came time to decide what to do about their roofs. They didn’t know who to trust or where to start, so that’s why we’re here—to help you figure out what is best for your home, family, and wallet!

The SouthShore Roofing & Exteriors team has been working for years to help customers make informed decisions about their roofs. Now we want to help you with your concerns, so read on!

Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof?

When you’re looking to repair or replace your roof, you might hear from a friend or neighbor that you need to get a new roof. Or maybe you’ve heard that you need to repair your roof. So how do you decide on the right solution?

Getting a roof inspection can help ensure that you get the right advice when making big decisions about your roof. Asking around won’t help you with everything that needs to be done on your house, but a professional will give you honest answers and help guide you through the decision of whether you should repair or replace your roof.

Inspecting Your Roof

Before discussing the roof repair vs. roof replacement debate, let us learn about another important aspect of roof maintenance, the roof inspection. 

A roof inspection is a procedure in which the roof of a home or building is inspected to check its condition. The homeowners or a professional inspector can do the roof inspection, but it’s better to hire a professional since they know what to look for. 

Inspecting the roof is necessary as it helps identify damage that needs repair and makes it possible to determine if the entire roof needs replacement.

Here are some tips you want to keep in mind when inspecting the roof yourself: 

  • Roof damage can occur inside your attic and on the exterior of your roof. Look for signs of aging, such as cracks, curling, or loose asphalt shingles. 
  • Pay special attention to the areas that meet the roof, like valleys and vents. Also, make sure that the flashing and boots are intact.
  • Additionally, go into your attic and look for any visible signs of water damage, including stains on the wood. 
  • Open up any wall panels that allow you to get a closer look at the roof sheathing, and check that the wood is in good condition, without any signs of warping.

Inspecting roofs can be a hassle but for homeowners in the Tampa Region, we can provide free roof inspections. Our roofing experts will do all the work for you and assess the condition of your roof.

Signs Indicating Roof Repair

Roof repair is the process of fixing damage on a roof. It involves replacing or repairing damaged parts of the roof, such as shingles, skylights and flashing.

If your roof is old or damaged and you spot signs of mildew or mold, it may be time for roof repair work. This could be caused by normal wear and tear or storm damage. Signs of roof damage include, but are not limited to, the following: 

A Few Missing Shingles

If you are living in Tampa, you may know about asphalt shingles and the problem that missing shingles cause. Shingles occupy the roofs of more than 75% of American homes, however, they suffer from some issues, the most common being their extremely lightweight composition and durability. Strong winds can result in shingle adhesive detaching, causing the shingles to uplift. If a storm arrives, these can easily be blown off.

If a few shingles are missing, it can compromise the entire roofing system, and will also reduce the curb appeal of a home. Rainwater can get into your roof deck and attic through the spots where shingles are missing, and cause damage to the inside of your home. So if you find this problem, then make sure you contact a professional roofing contractor immediately.

Missing Granules

Granules are an essential aspect of asphalt roof shingles. Granules are the small pieces of asphalt that form the outer layer of your shingles. They protect the shingle from ultraviolet rays, which can cause damage over time.

These small pieces of asphalt or tar can become damaged over time and come off your roof when it gets old and cracks. You will also find them in gutters after a storm since rainwater will wash them off your roof.

Most of the time, granular loss is not something you need to worry about. This is because it happens naturally with age. However, if you see frequent granules in your gutters, it’s time to repair your roof.

Roof Leaks

Roof leaks are one of the most common problems homeowners have to deal with after damaged shingles. If you spot water stains on your ceiling or walls, it could mean that you have a roof leak. You might also notice that these water stains are only in certain areas of your ceiling or wall.

Peeling Paint

Peeling paint is a bad situation for two reasons. One, it signals that there is moisture buildup inside your roof. The moisture from rain can seep into the material beneath the surface and cause the paint to peel away.

Secondly, it can put a damper on your home’s curb appeal. If you see your paint bubbling or peeling, it could be a sign of further damage to your roof. If this happens, you’ll want to call a professional right away. Even if the problem does not appear to be severe, you should get it fixed by one of the best Tampa roofing contractors, like SouthShore Roofing & Exteriors.

Roof Repair
Roof Repair

Signs Indicating Roof Replacement

While most roofs last about 20 years, you can tell when it is time to replace your home’s asphalt roof by examining the shingles carefully for damage. 

Here are some signs that your roof is beyond minor damage and will need to be replaced: 

Your Roof Is Old

One of the most common reasons to replace a roof is that it is way past its lifespan. Different types of roofing materials are available in Tampa, each having a separate lifespan that differs between types of materials. 

Here are some of the materials and how long they will usually last: 

  • Asphalt Shingles: 15-25 years (depending on the quality of material and brand)
  • Metal Roof: 50-60 years (depending on the type of metal you select)
  • Clay Tile: 50-80 years
  • Concrete Tile: 40-50 years

If you have an old roof, start making calls for roof replacements. The longer you wait to replace your roof, the more likely it is that you’ll need a full replacement. 

There Are Leaks & Damaged Shingles

If a roof has been exposed to constant water or moisture for long periods, this may cause wood to rot within the rafters and joists. Moisture can also create mold and may cause several health hazards. Damage is also indicated through cracked shingles and loss of granules. If water damage is beyond repair, you will need a replacement. 

Shingles Are Loose Or Curling

Loose and curling shingles are a sign that your roof needs to be replaced. Shingles can become loose because of several factors, including age or weather exposure. As shingles age, their adhesive bond begins to wear out, and the shingles begin to curl up at the edges. If left alone, this will eventually cause them to fall off the roof entirely.

If you notice that your shingles are curling up more than usual during the summer or winter months, or you just installed new shingles and they’re already curling, it’s time to get a new roof installed. 

Higher Energy Bills

Energy saving is significant, especially in today’s circumstances. Very few people know that the roof plays a crucial role when it comes to energy efficiency. If you’re paying more for your energy bills than usual, it could be a sign that you need a new roof. In fact, the cost of heating and cooling your home can be as much as 25% higher when your roof needs replacing.

The Roof Is Sagging

In the case a roof sags, it could mean that you need a complete roof replacement. If you’re noticing a dip in the middle of your home’s roof, it could be caused by rotting wood in the decking, which can lead to leaks and water damage.

Sagging is usually caused by a damaged or missing support system like trusses, rafters, or joists. If your roof sags more than 3 inches at any point, it may be time for a replacement.

A New Roof Increases Your Home’s Curb Appeal.

Roofs make up 40% of your exterior. If you replace your roof, the curb appeal of your home will surely increase.

roof replacement
Roof Replacement

We Offer The Best Roofing Services In Tampa

We hope that you now have a better idea of whether you should repair or replace your roof. 

Regardless of the decision, they both require an expert to handle them. This is why you need to contact our experienced roofing professionals!

If you see signs of trouble on your roof, don’t panic — call (813) 400-3329. Our team at SouthShore Roofing & Exteriors is well equipped to handle all of your roofing needs, from inspection to new roof installation. So give us a call today to schedule an inspection and find out if your roof needs repair or replacement.

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