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. Then, you’ll find yourself wondering whether it’s worth it to just replace sections of your roof rather than the entire roofing system.
When To Replace Sections Of Your Roof
If only parts of the roof are damaged, it’s possible to replace only the affected area, but it may not be an excellent 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 thoroughly to ensure no unseen damage is there.
While it’s not recommended to replace a roof partially, there are some situations where replacing sections and pieces of your roofing system is acceptable and necessary. Some of them include:
- Patch Jobs: If less than half of your roof is damaged, you may consider patching up the specific area. However, what seems like a minor patch job 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. But if the assessment doesn’t reveal any water damage, a simple patch job should suffice.
- Replacing Individual Shingles: 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 slotted where missing or damaged shingles existed. However, you’ll still need to have your roof inspected by a professional roofer to determine if there is damage to the underlayment and decking underneath.
When Partial Replacement Should Be Avoided
If your roof needs multiple sections or large areas replaced, it’s best to have the entire roof replaced. The main benefit of a complete re-roofing is the opportunity to assess the whole roof deck for any signs of damage or rot. Usually, imperfections in the roof deck can cause water damage to your home’s internal structure. 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 made up of different aged portions, which can ruin the curb appeal of your home. Roofing professionals also maintain it’s more complex to replace just half of a roof than a whole roof, meaning it could be just as expensive as replacing an 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 more significant, costly damage down the line. 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 soon require repairs or replacements, creating an endless cycle of partial repairs and replacements.
Final Thoughts
Overall, if your roof is old or substantially damaged, it’s best to schedule a complete replacement instead of a partial replacement. Having an entire roof replaced usually takes just a day. Whether you decide to patch, partially replace, or fully replace your roof, ensure the job is done right the first time to ensure longevity and money-saving. Working with experienced roofing specialists at Moss Roofing in Indianapolis, IN, can help you achieve that. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection!