The difference between roof repair and roof replacement

If it’s time to consider purchasing a new roof, it can be very difficult to navigate the differences between roof repair and roof replacement.

Buying a new roof is a big investment, but it can be great for your return on investment. According to many real estate professionals, a new roof can yield more than 80% of your home’s original cost at resale.

Here are some things to think about when considering a roof replacement or roof replacement project.

Roof Repair

In terms of cost, roof repair is less expensive than a complete roof replacement. It’s also much faster. If you have a single layer of shingles, reroofing is an option for you.

A roof repair job will involve placing a new shingle coating over any worn shingles. This will improve the appearance of your offer and provide a protective layer that prevents leaks.

However, keep in mind that a re-roofing job will not take as long as a roof replacement. This is mainly due to the nature of the work. If your roof has extensive water damage or is soaked or missing shingles it will not be an option for you.

Roof replacement

Roof replacement will be the best option for you if you are looking for longevity. A new roof will typically last for 20 years, if not longer.

Roofs with extensive damage, missing shingles, or physically older than 20 years are ideal candidates for roof replacement.

A roof replacement will first involve stripping all the old shingles from the roof before replacing them with new ones. Before installing the new shingles, your roofing contractors will install a new underlayment or felt. This will help protect the roof from exposure to the elements.

The differences between re-roofing and roof replacement are not drastic, but both have their advantages. If you want to save money and have a simple repair, reroofing may be the option for you.

If your roof is severely damaged or you want peace of mind that you won’t need additional repairs for a few decades then you should have a roof replacement. Whatever your needs, contact your local roofing experts to get a quote and ask any questions you may have.

7 Signs You Need a New Roof

Roofs are one of the most important components of a house. And, like all home essentials, roofs eventually need to be replaced. But when is the right time to replace your roof? Here are seven signs you need a new roof.

1. Old times

Simple as it may seem, aging can be one of the most important warning signs. Roofs will eventually fail over time due to weather damage and the longevity of your shingles. Most roofs last about 20 years, so if yours is approaching that age, it may be time to consider a new one.

2. Curled or bent shingles

Curled and bent shingles usually indicate age and in some cases moisture damage. Bent shingles mean moisture has found its way into the attic pushing nails out of the roof deck in the process.

If left untreated, these types of shingles will likely erupt during storms and leave your home exposed to the elements.

3. Finding granules

When shingles worsen, either due to old age or the weather, small pieces will break off. These are known as roof grains and look like dark, coarse sand.

You’ll usually see these pimples around the perimeter of your home and it’s a sign that your shingles aren’t holding up well.

4. Shingles are missing

This is very simple. A lack of shingles is usually a homeowner’s first sign that a new roof is needed. Lack of shingles can lead to water damage to your attic, roof deck, and home foundation, which could mean more money out of your pocket.

5. Tar streaks or algae growth

If you’ve noticed black streaks or areas that still look wet on your roof, you may have tar streaks.

Tar streaks are caused by the bacteria that eat away at the shingles resistance. You may see some green or blue moss-like elements on your shingles.

In some cases this could be caused by cheaply made shingles with limestone filler as the algae from the tar streaks will destroy the limestone.

6. Visible daylight through ceiling boards

This will be an obvious sign in your attic. If you see light through the ceiling boards it means there is an open path for moisture to enter. It also means that you may have a bigger problem with the risk of possible mold growth in the attic.

7. Increased energy bills

The last sign that you need a new roof is not physically visible, but more financially visible. A good roof acts as an insulator against the heat and cold of the outside elements.

If your roof isn’t doing its job properly, you’ll notice an increase in your utility bills, as it will cost you more to keep the house warmer or cooler.

Scroll to see the Montclair Roofing portfolio

If you’re seeing signs you need a new roof, take a look at the Montclair Roofing portfolio. We have specialist roofers in Montclair who will be able to answer any of your questions and set up a time to give you a quote.

For more information on our upcoming home projects, visit our website.