The joy of owning a home is immeasurable. Most homeowners rightly celebrate this achievement, especially because of its capital-intensive nature. But, like a child, the home needs to be cared for and maintained. One of the most important aspects of the structure is the roof. The roof protects the indoor space from weather hazards and should be appropriately appreciated.
Considering the roof replacement cost, homeowners may seek alternatives like reroofing. But what’s the difference between reroofing and roof replacement? And how does one know if reroofing is the right step? The roofers at https://www.kihleroofing.com/ break this down.
What Does Reroofing Involve?
Reroofing is a cost-effective way to manage the roof and improve its appearance. This project involves laying new shingles over existing aged ones to restore their appearance and provide extra protection against weather elements.
Reroofing projects are cheaper than replacing the entire roof. The project can also be completed quickly to protect against leaks and other roofing problems.
The Pros of Reroofing Your Home
- Reroofing is a cost-effective way to address roofing problems.
- It requires less time, minimal labor, and materials to complete.
- The project does not involve replacing the entire roof.
The Cons of Reroofing Your Home
- Reroofing adds an extra layer of shingle over your roof. Most areas prohibit adding a third layer to your roof.
- Reroofing does not offer a long-lasting solution compared to roof replacement
- Reroofing isn’t recommended for homes with existing metal roofing
- Reroofing can sometimes cover up huge roofing damages, especially because the older shingles aren’t lifted to investigate underlying problems.
What Does Roof Replacement Involve?
Roof replacements involve the removal of existing roof shingles, an inspection of the underlying membranes, and the replacement of affected parts. This type of job is costly and labor-intensive. It also requires a lot of materials, depending on how bad the underlying layer of the previous roof is.
Roof replacement projects are always detailed, which means all underlying problems will be fixed before a new roof is installed.
The Pros of Completely Replacing Roofs
- Roof replacements offer a fresh slate and longer-lasting outcomes depending on the roofing material used.
- Roof replacement can be done irrespective of the number of shingle layers present.
- Roof replacement fixes underlying issues like rots and other damages, giving the roof a stronger profile to withstand weather elements.
- Roof replacements can be cost-saving in the long run, reducing roof repair costs and issues.
The Cons of Completely Replacing Roofs
- The entire project can be expensive and requires a lot of time, materials, labor, and other inputs.
Deciding Between Reroofing and Roof Replacement
Homeowners often face major decisions that can make or break their homes. One such decision is the choice between reroofing and replacing the roof. Here are some pointers to help you decide if you’re in a similar situation.
Minor Roofing Issues or Leaks
Roofs are not indestructible. They get old and weak due to wear and tear or other reasons. You can expect to experience minor roofing issues periodically. However, these minor issues are not enough reasons to replace your entire roof. It may be cost-effective to repair the damaged area at first or reroof if the problem is widespread and persistent.
It is important, however, to note that you may be unable to add a third layer of shingles on your roof in many states. So, a replacement is recommended if you already have a second layer or have previously done a reroofing job.
Homeowners without the financial capacity to replace their roofs, even after two shingle layers, can remove the existing layers before reroofing. However, removing the existing layers before reroofing can be more expensive and labor-intensive. Consider the cost of removing those layers and the replacement cost. The cost difference can help you make the right decision.
Signs of Major Damage
Water damage, a sagging roof, or a large amount of mold or mildew growth are common signs of roof damage. These problems should not be covered up.
Homeowners whose roofs show signs of rot, sags, or organic growth should overhaul the entire roof. Completely replacing the roof is a great choice, especially as it eliminates the problem and offers a longer lifespan. Reroofing in such cases only covers up the problem and exposes the new shingle layer to quicker damage.
Knowing when to reroof and when to replace your roof completely is important as a homeowner. However, you should not only decide based on the financial requirement. Consult with a roofer on the best solution to protect your home for the longest time.
