If your roof is starting to show signs of wear, you might be wondering if you can patch a roof instead of replacing it. The answer depends on things like how old the roof is, how bad the damage is, and how much money you have. Sometimes, a simple patch can be a cheap way to remedy something. A full replacement may be cheaper in the long run.
We shall look at the pros and cons of Patching vs. Replacing in this article. Replacing so you can make a better decision for your home.
When Should a Roof Be Patched?
Patching vs. Replacing becomes an important question when the damage is relatively minimal and restricted to a certain area or a small section. A professional can repair this part of the roof while the rest of the structure remains in good shape.
Best Times to Patch
- Cheap: Fixing a roof is far cheaper than replacing it, so it’s a good solution for anyone on a tight budget.
- Decreased Downtime: Simple roof repairs tend to be short and take only a couple of hours on average.
- Increase Roof Longevity: If done correctly, roof patches can prolong the life of your roof.
- Limited Interference: No requirement for long, oxygen-consuming roofing repairs.
Risks of Patching
- May Clash With Pre-Existing Shingles: New roof shingles blending with older ones is not a guarantee.
- Doesn’t Resolve Other Problems: Patching a roof with deeper structural problems is only a temporary solution.
- Limited Longevity: Patchwork doesn’t last as long as a full roof replacement.
When should you get a new roof?
If the roof is old, worn out, or leaking a lot, it’s time to think about getting a new one. In this case, patching vs. replacing normally goes toward replacing because it is more valuable in the long run.
If your roof is getting old, has a lot of wear and tear, or leaks a lot, it might be time to think about replacing it completely. In these situations, replacement is usually the better option because it gives you more value over the long term.
Advantages of getting a new roof
- Good return on investment: New roof features will last from 20 to 50 years if you use high-quality materials, which is a good return on investment.
- Property Boost: A new roof will call for higher values and improve the aesthetics of the curb.
- Improved Energy Efficiency: New roofing materials enhance insulation, thereby decreasing energy consumption.
- No Further Expenditures: Ceases the need for further frequent maintenance to save on expenses.
Detriments from Roof Replacement
- Higher Initial Expenditure: A new roof translates to paying a lot more money in the beginning.
- Increased Time for Installation: For larger roofs, this could take some days of work.
- More Interruptions: The process includes noise, shifting building sites, and an overall messy situation.ion.
How to Decide on Patching vs. Replacing.
Key Factors to Guide Your Decision
1. Roof Age: If your roof is close to its expected lifespan, replacement is usually the smarter choice.
2. Extent of Damage: Isolated storm damage? Patch it. Widespread or recurring damage? Replace it.
3. Budget and Long-Term Objectives: Do you have a limited budget? For now, patching is effective. Staying in your house for a long time? It pays to replace.
4. Homeowner Plans: A new roof can greatly increase the value of your house if you intend to sell it soon.
5. Weather Preparedness: A sturdy, new roof will weather future storms better than an old patched one in hurricane-prone Louisiana and Mississippi.
When facing the Patching vs. Replacing decisions, it’s best to get a professional opinion.
Conclusion: Is It Better to Replace or Patch?
If your roof is fairly new, the damage is small and in one place, and you need a quick, cheap fix, patching is the way to go.
Choose replacement if your roof is old, has a lot of damage, or you want your property to look better, be safer, and be worth more in the long run.
Get in touch with the pros at Sunbelt Roofs.
Are you still trying to decide whether to fix your roof or get a new one?
Are you still trying to decide whether to patch your roof or get a replacement? Sunbelt Roofs offers professional roofing assessments that can help homeowners in Louisiana and Mississippi come to a decision.
📞 985-805-6921 (Louisiana) | 228-222-5255 (Mississippi)
👉 Book a Free Roof Inspection Today!
To Wrap It Up
Patching is a good idea for smaller problems, but if your roof has deep wear and tear or several problem areas, replacing is the best decision considering cost in the long run. Sunbelt Roofs is always ready to help with your needs and provide solutions in the most timely manner.