A roof is the most important element of the house. If it shows leakage or has signs of molded materials, it will eventually make the entire structure vulnerable to significant damage. Therefore, it is imperative to regularly inspect the roof and surrounding materials such as flashings and attics. In this way, you can detect when simple repairs are needed over the years or when you need to budget for a major roof replacement.

Roofs do not usually receive much attention or appreciation – until there is a problem. By the time the roof needs to be completely redone or replaced, the damage is probably significant.

First, you need to differentiate a roof repair from a roof replacement.

Roof repair/re-roofing

Basically, re-roofing consists of superimposing new shingles (or other roofing materials) on old, existing shingles. Minor repairs must be done in advance. A new roof covers the old one and should only be done once. The process is simply to put a new layer of shingles on an existing set. This can be a simple solution if the overall condition of the roof structure and support system is good. It works best if you do the whole roof, rather than just repairing a section or side, because you do not want to have multiple shingles in some places.

Repackaging can only be done once, so it is not appropriate in all situations. More than two layers add too much weight to the roof, while the nails may not penetrate properly, which may cause the shingles to fall or peel in cold weather. In addition, if there are any problems with the substructure, you only need to cover them rather than fix them. But if only the shingles are worn and there are no leaks, moss, mildew or other damage, this could be the solution to get a few more decades of using a roof.

Although you can save money with roof repairs, this solution is only suitable when there are minor roofing problems. But if the roof is ready to give up, replacement is the only option.

Roof replacement

The replacement of a roof involves the removal of all existing roof coverings. Then, repairs can be made on the substrate. A new roof system completely solves all roof problems, including leaks. This process is exactly as it should be: the entire roof is removed to the deck material. This allows the problems to be fully exposed and repaired before new shingles or other materials are put in place. Since this is a more complex procedure that requires extra work, it is more expensive than re-roofing. If a roof already has two layers of shingles, roof replacement is the only option.

It is advantageous to get a brand new roof, as this essentially affects the reset button for the roof life. You will still enjoy 30 years or more without worrying about leaks, repairs and other common problems. This is often better for insurance as it can increase the value of the building.

HOW TO DETERMINE IF A RE-ROOF OR ROOF REPLACEMENT IS NEEDED

Extreme weather can damage many types of roofing material. So, how can you be sure, with the exception of a roof inspection, if you need to re-roof or replace the entire roof? There are some methods to detect the answer.

Signs that you might need a re-roof

Most of us are not used to looking closely at our roofs; the first sign that something is wrong up there is often a problem. Signs that might be noticeable are;

• Daylight is visible from inside your attic or attic
• Cracked, damaged or curly shingles
• Shingles granules in your gutters
• Cracked flashings around vents, skylights and chimneys

If you opt for an amendment, there are some essential points to consider before proceeding;

• The size of the area to be repacked has an impact on the cost of the work. However, it may be worthwhile to weigh the cost of repairing the existing roof’s repair potential over several years – a repair can be more economical in the long run.
• Several materials are available for recasting, and they all have different price tags as well as different advantages and disadvantages. Sometimes we have to weigh the cost of materials on quality and durability.
• If your property is in a conservation area or protected area, you may need to replace a roof in accordance with the style of the area.

Renovating a property instead of replacing the entire roof saves the amount of materials needed and the level of labor required. Even then, it may not be the right option for your property. It is therefore recommend that you contact a specialist for an evaluation and a quote before making a final decision on re-roofing your flat or sloped roof.

Signs you may need a roof replacement

A healthy roof on your home or business is an important part of keeping your walls in place. If the roof of your property has suffered some kind of damage, it is quite possible that a routine repair of the roof corrects the problem. However, there have been other times when damage to the roof of the building is too great for a small repair to repair sufficiently. In these cases, you may need to complete a roof replacement. So, how do you know it’s time to replace the roof? Your best option is to seek the advice of an expert roofer, but look through this quick list for some common reasons that may require replacement of the roof.

A roof replacement is mandatory if;

• The existing roof appears in poor condition and lacks many shingles. In addition, if the material of the roof has become irregular and severely damaged, it would be impractical to lay a new roof flat.
• You do not know the age of the current roof and its lifespan may be exceeded.
• The roof has already been redone and has too many shingles.
• After verifying local building codes, you discover that roof repairs are the only viable option.
• You discover deformed or rotten wood and too much damage to replace.
• The roof structure reveals signs of subsidence or leakage.
• You want a newer roofing material requiring less maintenance.

So there you have it, all the information you need to make an educated assessment on the future of your roof.

Royal Renovators Inc. 118-35 Queens Blvd Forest Hills, NY 11375 (718) 414-6067 https://www.nycrenovators.com/

Royal Roofing & Siding Brooklyn 2380 Ralph Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11234 (718) 536-2667

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