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Roof Repair vs Roof Replacement: Comprehensive Guide to Home Restoration Projects

Palatine IL Roof Replacement Project Photo

Improving your home comes with a checklist of items. You may be needing some minor fixes or you could be looking to make major improvements. Part of improving your home is making sure your roof is up to date.

Your roof can be overlooked after years of exposure to the sun and weather conditions. Asphalt roofs tend to last 20 years or so. The lifespan of your roof depends on a variety of factors including your roof’s materials, weather conditions, average exposure to sunlight during the year, and even animals that tend to land or make homes on your roof.

At this stage, you’ll want to have a roof inspector come out to view every inch of your roof to check for missing shingles, holes, rot, water damage, possible mold, dipping, and gutter clogging. Many companies offer free inspections so you don’t waste your time if repairs or replacement is unnecessary.

Roof Inspection

How Long Do Roof Inspections Take?

Depending on the size of your home and the slope of the roof, the inspection could be done as quickly as within 1 hour. Inspections should occur each year to keep aware of your roof’s condition and possible damages.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Inspect or Replace Your Roof?

The best time of year to inspect, repair, restore, or replace your roof is during the dry season since water can prolong or damage the process.

Step 1

Review the Problems

Once an inspection has been completed, the roofing contractor will provide you with their checklist of items they found to be causes for concern or simple roof repairs.

The contractor will explain to you their professional recommendation for your roof. Does it need to be restored, replaced, or just repaired?

Step 2

Decision Time: Roof Repair vs Roof Replacement

Can a Roof Be Repaired Instead of Replaced?

Roofs can be repaired instead of replaced, but the service you choose depends on the problem. Repairing a roof essentially entails fixing or patching a smaller issue. However, if the issue is a much larger problem, you’re asking a roofing contractor to put a band aid on your home’s roof.

Band-aids wear off over time.

Let’s say you have a small hole in your roof. A roof repair might be the right fix for the job. But what if the hole in your roof has been there for several years?

This means that any sort of debris, water, and mold could have found its way into the structure of the roof. Water damage can trickle down to further parts of the roof and even find its way into the home.

Roof Repair vs Roof Restoration

Be sure not to confuse roof repair and roof restoration. The difference between these terms is that repairing a roof means patching a specific part of a roof.

Roof restoration is a service for giving your roof a facelift. 

Step 3

Bottom Line: Make Sure You Know the Problems Before Deciding on Repairs or Restoration

Your home is one of your most valuable assets, and maintaining its integrity starts from the top—literally. A well-maintained roof not only protects your home but also enhances its value and curb appeal. By understanding the condition of your roof through regular inspections, reviewing potential problems with a trusted contractor, and making informed decisions about repairs or replacement, you can ensure your home stays in top shape for years to come.

Whether you need a quick repair, a full roof restoration, or a complete replacement, the key is to act proactively. Don’t wait for small issues to turn into major problems. Feel free to call us at 847.847.2883 or fill our form out online to schedule your annual inspection during the dry season, ask questions, and to work with experienced professionals who prioritize quality and transparency.

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense—take care of it, and it will take care of you.

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