No matter how strong the materials are or how well it was built, your roof has a finite lifespan. At some point, you’ll need to repair or replace it completely, even if you’ve been performing maintenance for many years.
When you start to experience problems with a commercial roof, you have the option of getting it repaired or replaced completely, but how can you know which choice to make?
A good commercial roofing company won’t try to sell you a new roof unless you really need it, but if you’re concerned that might be the case, here are some indications that can help you know when you need a new roof, or if you’ll be okay with repairs.
Your Commercial Roof is Old
Commercial roofs have a lifespan of 20-50 years. Old roofs are difficult to repair because the wear and tear becomes extensive over time. If your roof is more than 20 years old, you’re not just talking about replacing a few shingles or a plumbing boot. You’re looking at substantial repairs that may not last long because the foundation of your roof is due for replacement.
If your roof is aging, it’s likely that your shingles have absorbed moisture, which can eventually lead to algae and mold. Soaked shingles can also rot and become weak. Missing or damaged shingles put your roof at risk for leaks that can cause thousands of dollars in water damage.
If your roof is damaged because it’s old, getting a roof replacement is the ideal solution. You can’t repair an aging roof to its original state without replacing most components.
Repairs Now Will Only be Temporary
If you can make repairs that will only temporarily solve your problem, replacing your roof is probably the better option. It will be a waste of time if you have to keep making the same repairs over and over. For instance, if your roof leaks in a handful of areas because the nails were driven in sideways, tar isn’t going to be a permanent solution. Eventually, you’ll have no choice but to replace your shingles.
Necessary Repairs Will Cost Almost as Much as a New Roof
Do you need so many repairs that your bill will be close to the cost of a new roof? If you’re within a few thousand dollars of getting a brand new roof, you may as well go for the full roof replacement, especially if your roof is at least 10 years old. You’re going to have to replace it eventually anyway, so it makes sense to get it replaced now to get the full lifespan of a new roof.
Your Insurance Will Cover a Roof Replacement
If your roof replacement is covered by insurance, there’s no reason to mess with repairs. However, insurance companies won’t always cover a full replacement when you submit a claim. Don’t let that stop you from pursuing an appeal.People win appeals all the time. Insurance companies are just hoping you won’t bother.
Insurance companies always lowball offers to preserve their profits. They don’t want to pay out more than they have to, and most people are willing to take the first offer because they think they can’t fight it, but you can.
Get a commercial roofing company to perform a free roof inspection to get you a second opinion on the condition of your roof along with the repairs that are necessary. Some roofers even use the same software as the insurance companies to calculate claims and can beat them at their own game if they’re lowballing you.
You Won a Large Claim for Repairs
When your insurance company pays out on a large claim, you might only have made a claim for repairs, but you can use that money to replace your roof and pay less overall. For instance, say you win a claim for $8,000 in repairs and a replacement is $10,000. You’ll get a check for $8,000 and you can put that towards a full roof replacement and pay the difference. In this case, you’ll get a whole new roof for just $2,000, and that’s a great deal.
However, be aware that if you receive funds from a claim for repairs and keep the money instead of using it to make those repairs, future claims will probably be denied.
Call a Pro to Fix Your Roof
Whether you need a new roof or can get by with repairs, it’s best to call a professional roofing company to ensure the job is done right. Don’t take the risks associated with self-repair. Call a professional and have it done safely and correctly.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
