Key Considerations When Deciding If A Roof Leak Requires Roof Replacement
For homeowners experiencing roofing leaks for the first time, it can be difficult to determine if you can just have the problem repaired or if you're going to need to have the roof replaced. Short of paying for a roofing contractor to come out and evaluate it, how do you get some idea of what kind of expense you're facing? There are a few key considerations to help you determine when that leaking roof means a complete roof replacement.
The Extent Of The Leak
The first thing that you need to consider is how bad the leak is. The severity of the leak is a direct contributing factor to the need for replacement versus repair. If the leak has just begun and the water hasn't spread beyond the single leak area, you may be able to have the roof repaired.
However, most roof leaks aren't detected inside the house until they've worsened enough to saturate the roof, the underlayment, and the ceiling enough to create a buildup of water sufficient to drip through the ceiling. That means that many roof leaks have likely caused significant damage under your roof's surface before you even know the leak is there.
Additionally, if you have leaky areas in several places on your roof, that's going to mean you need an entire roof replacement as well. Multiple leaks indicate that your home's roof is failing completely. A full roof replacement is the best way to avoid ongoing problems in this case.
The Age Of Your Roof
Another key consideration when you're trying to decide if you can repair a leaking roof or if it will need complete replacement is the age of your home's roof. If your home's roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it's important that you consider a roof replacement instead of just a repair.
The typical lifespan of a home's roof will vary based on the type of material used. For example, asphalt shingles are typically rated for fifteen to thirty years. You'll have to ask your roofer about the rating for the shingles that are on your roof if you didn't pay for the last shingles that were installed.
Metal roofing often lasts longer than asphalt shingles, but the lifespan can vary for that as well. Make sure you discuss your roof and its expected lifespan with your roofing contractor to ensure that you opt for roof replacement when needed in order to avoid facing failures and problems as a result of roofing age. Talk to a roof replacement provider like Lagunas Interstate Construction, LLC. for more information.