One of the most important aspects of being a homeowner involves making decisions when it comes to your roof, and that is to whether to push through with repairs or invest in a complete replacement. As a leading roofing contractor in Minneapolis, Krech Exteriors has expert insights into the best times to go with the latter instead of the former.
Recognizing the Signs for Roof Replacement
It is always advisable to keep an eye on your roof, particularly after extreme weather conditions. Apart from that, routine inspections must be done semi-annually — one in spring and another in the fall — to check for any indications of damage. The recommendation to either repair or replace the roof often depends on the following factors:
- Age of Your Roof. The longevity of a roof is contingent upon the materials used and the craftsmanship of installation. Generally, roofs have a lifespan ranging from 10 to 30 years. If your roof in the Minneapolis area is reaching its twilight years, replacement can be a more cost-effective and long-term solution.
- Extent of Damage. Is the damage to your roof minimal or widespread? Small, isolated areas can often be repaired effectively, but significant damage might warrant a full replacement, especially if it implicates the structural integrity of the roof.
- Type of Roofing Material. Each roofing material comes with a distinct durability and lifetime. Local roofing contractors are skilled when it comes to working with a variety of materials, including asphalt shingles, metal, and slate. The decision to repair or replace could be influenced by the type of material and the potential for long-term resilience.
Considerations Before Making the Decision
The decision to pursue a roof replacement project and its potential success hinges on the following:
- Urgency and Weather Considerations. In climates with severe weather conditions, such as what we see in Minneapolis, urgent repairs might be necessary to prevent further damage. However, if a storm season is continually causing damage, it might be time to consider a more robust replacement.
- Energy Efficiency. Modern roofing materials offer improved energy efficiency. Cool roofs, for instance, are engineered to reflect intense sunlight and heat, thus potentially saving on future heating and cooling bills in your home.
- Compliance with Building Codes. Local buildings often dictate whether one can overlay new shingles over the old ones, known as re-roofing. This process has restrictions and potential downfalls, including the voiding of warranties and masking underlying damage.
- Budget Constraints. A roof replacement is generally more expensive upfront, but it could offer more value per square foot and peace of mind. Moreover, insurance might cover a significant part of a full replacement in the case of insured events like storms, making it an attractive option if your roof has sustained extensive damage.
Given the complexity of a roof replacement project, it’s imperative that you leave its completion to an experienced roofer like Krech Exteriors. We have the industry knowledge and deeply experienced contractors necessary to create full functional roofing homeowners in Minneapolis can count on for years to come. We take pride in partnering with some of our nation’s most top manufacturers of quality roofing products, including GAF and CertainTeed. Call us at (651) 688-6368, or fill out our contact form to learn more about our roofing services.
