Patching Your Roof vs. Replacing It: A Guide from Pyramid Roofing
Should you patch or replace your damaged roof? Well, that depends on a few factors. As a homeowner, it’s stressful enough dealing with a roof that needs your attention, nevermind deciding on how to deal with it. That’s where a professional roofing company can help. At Pyramid, we’re not here just to upsell you, but rather give you and your home the best solution to your problem. Read on to learn more about when to patch, vs when to replace.
Patching Your Roof: The Quick Fix
When you notice a small leak or roof damage, your first instinct might be to patch it up. This can make for a great temporary fix, but may not be the best long-term answer. Here’s how to know if patching your roof is the right choice:
When a patch is a good solution
- Minor damage – If the damage on your roof is small and in one spot, like one missing shingle or tiny hole, a patch will probably work just fine.
- Recent roof installation – If your roof is relatively new and in good condition, a quick patch can extend it’s life before more work is needed.
- Emergency repairs – If the damage happened right after a big storm, a patch can prevent leaks and other deterioration until you can have a professional assess the situation. Another option would be to tarp your roof.
When a patch may not be enough
Patching your roof can be the convenient and cost-effective option, but it’s not always the best choice. Here’s when a patch may not be a good enough fix:
- Extensive damage – If the damage on your roof is widespread, a repair or full replacement may be necessary
- Aging Roof – Older roofs are more vulnerable to leaks, structural weakness, and material degradation. Basically this means that a simple patch might not address all of the underlying problems. Rather than frequently patching up your aging roof, a full replacement is often a more practical and long-term solution. Not to mention, the age of your roof can influence your home insurance. A roof that’s 20 years old or more may be ineligible for coverage.
- Other underlying issues – Not all leaks or damage are due to a simple hole or shingle. There may be underlying structural problems or poor installation that can’t be solved with a simple patch. If you find this to be the case, give your local roofers, like Pyramid roofing, a call to get their expertise.
The Risks of Relying on Patching your Roof
A patch here and there, when appropriate, can be incredibly helpful for the longevity of your roof. Unfortunately, too many patches can lead to these problems:
- Recurring leaks – A patch may not fully stop the problem, leading to repeated issues, water damage, and other nuisances.
- Hidden water damage – With just a patch, water can still leak into the underlying structure, causing mold, rot, and insulation damage.
- Future expenses – If you’re using a patch just to delay the cost of a necessary repair, you might be doing yourself a disservice. Simply patching your roof, when more extensive repairs are needed, can actually result in more expensive fixes down the road.
Replacing Your Roof: The Long-Term Investment
When patching your roof just isn’t enough, a full roof replacement might be necessary. While this is a more expensive option, it can provide long-term benefits. A full replacement provides a stability that a few patches just can’t. Alongside peace of mind, a replacement brings enhanced energy efficiency, increased property value, and durability for all kinds of weather. While the upfront cost is definitely higher, it helps to ensure that your home remains protected for years to come.
Pro Tip: If your roof has storm-related damage, contact your insurance company to see what your policy covers. Then, contact a roofing company for their professional assessment. At Pyramid Roofing, our contractors work with your insurance adjusters to guarantee you receive the full coverage you’re entitled to for necessary repairs or replacement.
Patching your Roof vs Replacing it: Which Option Is Right for You?
The decision to patch or replace your roof depends on the extent of the damage, the age of your roof, and your long-term plans for the home. If your roof is relatively new, patching might be enough to address small issues. But, if your roof is aging or you’ve already patched it multiple times, replacing it could save you money in the long run.
If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to contact Pyramid Roofing. We’re here to help guide you through this decision. Our experienced roofing experts will assess the condition of your roof and discuss your options. No matter your decision, we’ll work to keep your home protected.
Contact Pyramid Roofing Today
Springfield, Missouri office: 417-943-4011 || Kansas City, Missouri office: 816-966-1101
