Professional Roofing Company
A new roof is one of the most significant investments you can make in your home, and it’s a decision homeowners frequently face. Roofers often advise replacement over repair, especially when it comes to asphalt shingles, for reasons that extend far beyond a quick fix. Let’s explore why replacement is the preferred recommendation, what factors weigh into this advice, and how you can make the best choice for your property.
There are several clear-cut factors professionals evaluate before advising a replacement. Here are the most influential:
Age of the Asphalt Shingle Roof: Most asphalt shingle roofs last around 20 to 25 years. If your roof is approaching or has surpassed this age, replacement is the most reliable way to restore full protection and avoid recurring repair costs.
Extent of Damage: Localized issues, such as a few missing shingles after a storm, may be suitable for repair. However, widespread damage, especially from repeated severe weather or long-term wear, makes replacement the safer, more cost-effective option.
Water Damage and Leaks: Frequent or multiple leaks indicate that simple repairs will not address the underlying issues. Water infiltration can damage roof decking, insulation, and even interior structures, requiring more comprehensive action.
Worn or Failing Shingles: Significant granule loss, curling, cracking, or widespread missing shingles expose your roof to UV and moisture damage. Degraded shingles across entire sections mean the system is failing to protect your home.
Roofers take a systematic approach to help you understand when each option makes the most sense:
Choose Repair When:
The roof is less than ten years old with minor, isolated damage.
Missing shingles or leaks are limited to small, contained areas.
Roof structure and decking remain solid with no evidence of moisture or rot.
Choose Replacement When:
Your asphalt shingle roof is more than 15-20 years old.
You’ve already invested in repeated repairs, but new issues continue to develop.
There are signs of structural deterioration, extensive leaks, or widespread granule loss.
Large areas of moss, algae, or persistent valleys/dips appear, pointing to underlying failure.
A patchwork of repairs on an aging asphalt roof often only provides temporary relief. Here’s why relying too heavily on repairs can actually be more expensive long-term:
Mismatched Appearance: New asphalt shingles rarely blend with weathered ones, affecting curb appeal especially if sections are highly visible.
Undetected Damage: Repairs frequently address just the surface, missing underlying problems like rot or deck damage that worsen over time.
Mounting Costs: Isolated repairs are costly per square foot and those costs accumulate quickly if you have to revisit the same issues.
Warranty Limitations: Roofing manufacturer warranties may be voided by recurring repairs or multi-layered patch jobs, possibly limiting your protection on future work.
Opting for a roof replacement on your asphalt shingle system offers distinct advantages that make it a sound investment:
Comprehensive Inspection: Replacement allows all layers of the roof to be inspected, identifying any hidden problems and correcting them before the new system is installed.
Energy Efficiency: New roofing materials are more energy-efficient, helping regulate your home’s temperature and potentially reducing utility bills.
Building Code Compliance: A full replacement ensures your roofing system meets local codes, especially when old materials are removed and updated with current standards.
Reset Your Clock: A complete roof replacement gives you peace of mind for 20-25 years, rather than facing unpredictable repair intervals.
If you’re facing costly repairs or suspect your asphalt shingle roof is reaching the end of its life, our roofing professionals can help you determine the right solution. At PCS Roofing, we proudly serve Simpsonville, SC, offering roof replacement, roof repair, and storm & weather damage solutions with expert inspections and honest assessments. Call us today at 864-862-8887 or fill out our online form to request your estimate and protect your home with confidence.