ROOF Repair vs. Roof Replacement

With over ten years of experience as the top roofing contractor in Chicago, we possess the expertise to guide you through the decision-making process regarding roof repair or replacement. It can be confusing as different contractors may offer conflicting advice during their estimates. Although there isn't a definitive answer to this dilemma, there are certain factors you can consider to help you reach a decision. These criteria will be elaborated below to aid you in this important process.

At Taurus Roofing & Siding, we consider six important factors to decide between a roof repair and a new roof installation for our customers. While there are other factors that may also be relevant to your situation, these six criteria can assist any homeowner or business owner in making an informed decision that aligns with their budget and the long-term condition of the building. Let's begin by exploring our criteria for determining whether a roof repair or replacement is more suitable:

The Roof’s Age: It's not unexpected that one of the primary factors we consider when deciding between roof repair and roof replacement is the age of the roof. As surprising as it may seem, roofs have a limited lifespan, and beyond a certain point, replacing the roof becomes necessary as materials deteriorate over time. For instance, shingles typically last between 15 to 30 years, so if the roof exceeds this timeframe, replacing it is likely the best course of action.

Any Roof Leaks:  Previous instances of roof leaks, as well as any ongoing leaks as you weigh the choice between repairing or replacing your roof, should be key considerations in your decision-making process. The presence of a leak does not always necessitate a full roof replacement, but multiple leaks might indicate poor installation or underlying structural issues. A professional from Taurus Roofing & Siding can assess the situation, provide a detailed analysis of the problem, and suggest the most suitable solution tailored to your individual requirements.

Your Future Plans: When deciding between repairing or replacing your roof, your future plans play a crucial role, provided the roof is not in such a poor condition that repairing it would be unwise. If you intend to sell your house in the near future, opting for repairs may help you minimize costs before the sale. On the other hand, a new roof can significantly increase your property's value, making it a challenging decision if both choices are viable. Ultimately, this decision rests solely on your shoulders.

Potential Costs:  This is a significant concern for our customers who need roofing services, and it is entirely understandable. The expenses involved in roof repairs are considerably different from those of roof replacements. Both new roof installations and repairs have what we refer to as "hidden costs," with installations typically having more of these than simple repairs. These unforeseen costs may include factors such as weather conditions, traffic delays, unexpected damages, and other variables. It is crucial to recognize and account for these costs when receiving an estimate from your roofing contractor.

Potential Savings: Before rushing into accepting a roof repair offer, take a moment to consider factors that could make opting for a new roof installation more advantageous. Modern roofing materials are significantly more energy-efficient compared to older ones, leading to potential savings on energy expenses. Furthermore, there are state and federal tax incentives available for purchasing and using new roofing materials. Additionally, many insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner's insurance policies when a new roof is installed. In contrast, roof repairs do not provide the same long-term benefits.

Re-Roof Possibility:  A re-roof project falls between a roof repair and a roof replacement. It is a common practice for built-up roofing and shingle installations. Essentially, a new layer of roofing material is added on top of the existing one. This approach eliminates the necessity of removing the old roof, reducing labor time and costs for the customer. However, re-roofing is only feasible under specific conditions and comes with certain disadvantages that need to be considered beforehand. Notably, FHA lenders do not approve loans for properties with more than two layers of roofing material, so if you are considering selling your property, it is advisable to avoid re-roofing.

The mentioned six criteria can assist you in determining whether you require a roof repair or a roof replacement without the need to consult a licensed roofing contractor. However, having a professional present to discuss specific issues can greatly facilitate the process. A trustworthy contractor will always propose a roof repair if it is deemed safe. They will also outline the potential benefits of addressing all your issues at once by opting for a new roof installation, which may include tax credits applicable to your location. Feel free to contact us at (312) 238-0408 today to discuss your situation regarding roof repair or roof replacement with our team!