While it may not be the first project that comes to mind, repairing or replacing your roof can not only increase the value of your home but also decrease maintenance and even your electricity bill. Both roof repair and roof replacement can seem like overwhelming decisions. Hiring a contractor can take all of the guesswork out of the process. Bob Villa, home improvement television host, including on ‘This Old House’, recommends that you should have your roof inspected by a contractor every ten years.

Regular inspections of your roof can help catch any hot spots that are in need of repair. Over time, your roof will experience wear and tear. Regular roof inspections can catch areas that may need repair. Regular maintenance will cut down on costs in the long run. So if you’ve just purchased your Rochester home, or if it’s been a while since you’ve had a professional inspect it, it should be time to make sure that your roof isn’t experiencing any leaks or vulnerable spots.

Repair or Replace?

The decision to repair or replace your roof comes down to a number of different factors. The age of your roof, any damage, or if you are experiencing leaks all need to be evaluated. While roof repair through a reputable roof contractor in the Rochester area can fix many of the problems that you are facing, you may also find that in the long run, a roof repair will be more cost-efficient in the long run.

There are over five million new roofs installed every year, according to RoofingContractor.com. Getting a new roof will increase your home’s curbside appeal. A new roof will also prevent unseen damage to the inside of your home, such as damage that is caused by leaks or structural damage.

Depending on the extent of damage to your roof, or the age of your roof, repairs could be your best route. If your roof has been replaced in ten years or, usually, roof repairs can prolong the lifespan of your roof.

Typical Repairs

When it comes to repairs, there are some typical targeted areas that a roofing contractor looks out for. Areas around chimneys and the flushing around the edging of the roof can be prone to damage over time. This is slow damage that is usually caused by the general lifespan of your roof. Patching those areas can prolong the lifespan of your roof and prevent damage to your house and your electricity bill.

Another common repair is shingles. While shingles are designed to protect your roof, over time they can break down. Depending on the age of your roof or the environmental factors, shingles will break down, exposing your roof to further damaging factors.

Cost Matters

Like all home improvements, the cost is one of the major factors when considering either a repair or a replacement. One of the most important things to take into consideration is the return on investment (ROI) that a new roof results in. There is around a 62% ROI on a new asphalt shingle roof. In a housing market that is unsure, increasing your ROI will only benefit you in the long run, no matter what future property plans are.

Should I Repair or Replace My Roof?

When it comes to the decision about repairing or replacing your roof, the best route to take is to consult a reputable Rochester roofing contractor. They will not only understand how the environment will impact your roof over time, but can also identify weak areas. Keep in mind that while replacing your roof has a large price tag upfront, over time your investment will pay for itself.