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Repair or Replace Roof Shingles?

Written by Zach Reece | Jan 23, 2021 4:19:04 AM

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It’s important to have your property up to date with roofing materials in good condition. In order to protect your home from problems such as leaks, asphalt shingle roof repair will need to be done in a timely manner in order to avoid problems from worsening into replacements.

If you’d like to learn more about asphalt shingle roof repair make sure to contact your local qualified roofing company. Until then, here is some general background information regarding asphalt shingle roof repair that may be useful to you in the future.

SHOULD I CALL INSURANCE OR ROOFER FIRST?

If you’re in need of asphalt shingle roof repair it may be a good idea to contact your insurance company as they may be able to cover the cost of repairs. In some cases, however, if they don’t pay then this claim can increase your insurance policy premium. Get an idea of what should be done by doing your research or speaking with a roofing company to see what can be done with your roof.

How to know whether to repair, patch, or replace your roof?

Little signs may appear that your roof is not handling the weather, and the understanding of roof repairs vs replacement is important. Roof restoration vs replacement is a big difference, both in terms of the time and work it requires, but also in terms of money. Obviously, if you’re trying to patch your roof because of a leaky roof, it’s going to be much cheaper to match the existing shingles on the existing roof, rather than replacing it entirely.

The first step when deciding the question of repair vs replace roof, is to get a professional roof inspection. This will let someone experienced in roof repair and replacement to check for warning signs and determine whether it’s time to replace, or if a few shingles can be fixed.

Roof problems can be something as minor as a loose shingle or something as major as sagging roof decking. If you’re selling your home, then the question may come down to curb appeal, but reroofing vs roof replacement may very well mean the difference between water pouring down on you in your living room.

Does insurance cover blown shingles?

Homeowners’ insurance will typically cover asphalt shingle roof repair if damages were done from inclement weather or in situations beyond your control. With blown shingles, this is such a case however if you let your roof sit for a while and did not fix the issue then any resulting damages like water exposing underlayment to rain result in water damages would not be covered.  

What roof damage is covered by insurance?

Homeowners’ insurance will cover vandalism, fires, “acts of God” such as tornadoes and hurricanes, and other forms of inclement weather. Rain, wind, and hail damages being covered will be dependent on the policy you hold and your roof’s age. Some may have hail exclusions for example and a roof that’s 10 years old and damaged will likely get full replacements covered.  

Should I file a claim for roof damage?

If you’re looking to repair your roof it will typically be a good idea to file a claim before repairing a roof. Your insurance will likely require you to get an approved roofing contractor and get a roof inspection to support your claim. In some cases, your insurance may decide that a roof replacement will be better than a repair.

How do I know if my roof shingles are bad?

In order to tell if an asphalt shingle roof repair or replacement will need to be made from shingles that are in poor condition if to get a roof inspection. By observing your roof you can also get a good idea as to what is going on. You may see missing, balding, or otherwise damaged shingles. Cracking, curling, and wavy edges for example are all signs that repairs need to be made as these conditions are irreversible.

What are the signs that you need a new roof?

  • Cracked, broken, or missing shingles
  • Balding or missing granules.
  • Curled or wavy edges.
  • Visible signs of aging.
  • Algae/dark stains.
  • Moss growing.
  • Ice damming.

How long does an asphalt shingle roof last?

An asphalt shingle roof can last anywhere from 15-25 years dependent on maintenance, weather conditions, and other factors. According to the NAHB, fiber cement shingles can last about 25 years while asphalt shingle/composition roofs last around 20. 

By contrast, a tile roof can last 25-30 years, and a metal roof can last up to fifty years, depending on the type of the metal. But there will be an added cost to the roof for those materials.

When should asphalt shingles be replaced?

An asphalt shingle roof replacement should occur around 20-25 years. You may be able to avoid the removal of old shingles by adding a second layer of shingles over the first. This will depend on the region where you live as some will have codes that don’t allow for it. As such, if your roof has undergone severe damages or needs repairs in multiple areas of the roof a roof replacement is recommended. 

Will a roof leak with one shingle missing?

If that shingle lies above a torn seam your shingle will leak even with just one missing shingle. Even with one missing shingle, you may require asphalt shingle roof repair to avoid a leak. That’s because leaving a single shingle unattended can expose flashing and underlayment, over time (and especially with heavy rain) problems can worsen.

How do you waterproof a shingle roof?

You may be able to waterproof asphalt shingles with your own DIY asphalt shingle roof repair or by a professional by obtaining acrylic asphalt sealant and adding a protective layer to the shingles to keep them safe from water damages.

Contact a Professional Roofer About Asphalt Shingle Roof Repair 

If you find that your property may need asphalt shingle roof repair or would like to know what services should be done, contact your local roofer. Only a professional will be able to conduct a roof inspection to properly analyze roof conditions and problems. You’ll then be matched with the right roofing service which will strengthen your roof and protect it from the elements. Speak with a well-established roofing company today for more information and guidance. 

Get assistance with asphalt shingle roof repair by calling (678) 365-3138 with the experts today!