Your roof protects your home from the elements, keeping you and your family warm and dry all year long. However, even the most solid roof is bound to suffer damage at some point, and you’ll face several questions. Is it possible to replace a roof in sections? If so, is it advisable?

Join us as we explore the feasibility and practicality of replacing your roof in sections, and shed light on the potential benefits and drawbacks.

When To Replace Sections Of Your Roof

If only parts of your roof are damaged, it’s possible to replace only the affected area, but it may not be the best idea. It will depend on the extent of the damage, as well as the age of your roof. An experienced roofing contractor should inspect your roofing system for damage that isn’t obvious.

While it’s not recommended to replace part of the roof, there are some situations where replacing sections of your roofing system is acceptable and necessary. Some of them include:

If less than half of your roof is damaged, you may consider patching the area. However, what seems like a minor patch might require extensive repair, especially if there is severe moisture damage due to leaks penetrating the attic. Have your roofer thoroughly inspect the roof and recommend the best course of action. If the assessment doesn’t reveal any water damage, a simple patch job should suffice.

During high winds, some shingles may be blown off your roof. Missing, damaged, or worn-out shingles are often not a big concern. New shingles can be easily inserted where missing or damaged shingles had been. However, you should have your roof inspected by a professional roofer to determine if there is damage to the underlayment and decking.

If the damage to your roof is confined to certain sections, perhaps due to a fallen tree or severe weather event, it may be possible to replace only the affected areas while leaving the rest of the roof intact. This approach would save on costs and prevent the need for a full roof replacement.

If your roof has different sections with varying ages, replacing only the older or more damaged area can be a suitable option.

When Partial Replacement Should Be Avoided

If your roof needs multiple sections or large areas repaired, it’s best to have the entire roof replaced. The main benefit of a complete re-roofing is the opportunity to assess the entire roof deck for any signs of damage or rot. If the roof deck has been compromised, water will permeate your home’s internal structure, leading to a host of problems. A damaged roof deck also raises the chances of full or partial roof collapse.

Why You Should Not Replace Sections Of Your Roof

Having sections of your roof replaced could lead to many problems. Your roof will be comprised of different aged portions, which can ruin the curb appeal of your home. Also, it’s more complex to replace just half of a roof, so it could be just as expensive as replacing your entire roof.

Most roofing systems are not designed to be split into sections. Doing so may create seams, leading to a leaky roof or structural issues, resulting in costly damage in the future. Moreover, by replacing half of your roof, your home will be stuck with two halves with different lifespans. As a result, your older half will require repairs or replacements, creating an endless cycle of partial repairs and replacements.

If You Have a Tight Budget

We understand that in some cases, budget limitations may make it necessary to prioritize certain areas of the roof for replacement. This can be a temporary solution to address immediate issues and allow for a phased approach to roof replacement as finances permit. Another option to consider is financing your roof replacement. If you feel that replacing the entire roof is a better choice, Moss Roofing offers financing options that may help alleviate the immediate burden of this unexpected cost.

Final Thoughts

Overall, if your roof is old or substantially damaged, it’s best to have your roof replaced, which usually takes only a day. Whether you opt for patching, partially replacing, or replacing your roof entirely, ensure the job is done right to save money in the long term, and for the longevity of your home. Working with experienced roofing specialists at Moss Roofing in Indianapolis, IN, can help you achieve that. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection!