A strong roof helps in protecting your property against the rough weather conditions, maintaining optimal energy efficiency, and adding more value to your home. When there are noticeable signs of roof damage, property owners often encounter a vital decision on re-roofing or opt for a complete roof replacement. The main thing that lurks in the mind of the property owners juggles between re-roof vs roof replacement. Understanding the different factors will help you evaluate the type of roofing service you need. This is where a reliable roofer can help you in deciding the right roofing options that are available for your property.
What Does Reroof Mean?
Re-roofing involves placing a new shingle layer over an existing roof. Compared to a complete roof replacement, it is affordable and prompt, and involves less labour and materials. This process is evident if your roof is nearing complete damage but retains its shape without any significant structural issues. However, it is worth noting that re-roofing is often not possible. The local building codes might prevent this process if your home already has two layers of shingles. Furthermore, it is never recommended for properties with metal roofs or roofs with water, mildew, or mould damage, or a sagging roof deck.
What is a Roof Replacement?
Getting a new roof or deciding on complete roof replacement involves the removal of the old roofing parts, including the roofing materials and shingles, other than the decking. Each roofing part gets replaced with brand new material. The roofing part includes the outermost layer, including the felt paper or underlayment, and shingles. The parts even include an ice and water shield known as waterproof membrane safeguarding the roof gulleys and a drip edge or metal flashing for more protection around the roofing edges. Roof replacement performed by the local roofer is an extensive process compared to reroofing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Re-Roofing and Roof Replacement
Various factors can help you decide between reroofing and roof replacement. These factors can help you make the best choice that matches your roofing needs and pocket budget. It is important to evaluate them with care.
Roof Age and Condition Matter More Than You Think
A properly maintained roof lasts over a decade; however, even the strongest roofing materials start deteriorating over time. If roofs have smaller cosmetic issues, then reroofing is the ideal choice. Slight loss of granules, cracked shingles, or dull appearance does not imply that you need a complete roof replacement. Roofing issues like sagging, extensive leaks, and water damage are often signs that you need a new roof.
Hidden damages often infiltrate deep under the surface, and adding new shingles over the damaged structure just masks more issues. A professional inspection with the help of new roofing contractors often reveals that the existing roofing systems lay a staunch foundation of underlying issues that need prompt attention.
Budget Constraints Versus Long-Term Investment
Investing in a complete replacement might seem costly upfront, but it provides a fresh start with better insulation, improved durability, and an extended lifespan. Homeowners planning to stay long-term often find the added expense worthwhile, as a new roof increases property value and reduces future repair needs.
Opting for a full roof replacement may appear expensive, but it offers the best start with enhanced insulation, durability, and prolonged roofing lifespan. The homeowners often plan to stay long-term to find additional expenses worthwhile, while the new roof helps maximise the value of the property and minimise the need for future roof repairs.
Roof Structure and Decking Condition
The overall condition of the roofing structure and its decking plays a critical part in terms of choosing between re-roof and roof replacement. Decking forms the underlying support system holding the roofing materials and shingles. When the decking gets damaged, rotten, or unable, then re-roofing might not be the right option. A complete roof replacement involves thorough inspections, repairs, and replacements of the roof, offering a lasting solution. Overlooking this integral step leads to extensive roof damages in the future.
Energy Efficiency and Climate Play a Major Role
Warm summers, chilling winters, or frequent storm damage require a roof that is strong enough to withstand the weather’s extreme conditions. While re-roofing offers temporary relief, an older underlayment might lack modern energy efficiency. Insulation quality, heat retention, and efficient ventilation impact the energy consumption of the home.
A complete roof replacement helps homeowners upgrade materials, boost insulation, and improve ventilation systems. Highly advanced roofing options, including specialised coatings and reflective shingles, help reduce energy bills and create comfortable indoor spaces.
Conclusion
Deciding on reroof or roof replacement relies mainly on the condition, age, structure, and damages of the roof. Re-roofing might not be the option as it is a temporary coverup for the issues, however, it might lead to extensive roof damages in the future. Alternatively, roof replacement helps with lasting roof fixes. So, if you are deciding on getting work done on your roof, then schedule a free roofing inspection from one of the best roofing contractors, Sterling Roofing Contractors Ltd. Our professional roofers will inspect for the signs of damages that need prompt attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Install a Different Roofing Material During a Re-roof?
Generally, a re-roof involves using shingles of the same type as the existing roof. Changing the materials often requires a complete roof replacement, ensuring appropriate installation. Contact us to learn more.
How Long Does a Re-roof Take Compared to a Full Replacement?
A re-roof usually takes one to two days, while a full roof replacement takes several days. The time required depends mainly on the roof size and the weather conditions in your area.
How Do I Know if My Roof is Sagging?
The visible signs of roof sagging include uneven lines, visible dips, or interior ceiling cracks. These structural issues require a complete roof replacement instead of just a re-roof.