Behind The Scenes Of Your Roof Repair

Roofs are designed to provide protection from the elements for a number of years. If you still have 10-15 years left in the lifespan of your asphalt shingles roof, repairs can keep it protecting your home for years to come. As long as the repairs are minor, you don’t need to spend huge sums of money on a full replacement yet. However, roof repair can be both expensive and time-consuming depending on the extent of damage and scope of restoration required. A reputable roofing contractor should first assess the damage from both inside and outside your home before issuing an estimate. Roof repair estimates can vary widely depending on a number of factors.

Factors which Affect the Cost of Roof Repair

When it’s time to have your roof shingles repaired, several parameters go into creating a cost estimate. They include:

1. The Age of Your Roof

Age determines how easy it will be to match your existing roofing material. The biggest variant in a roof repair project is often the roofing material. Sometimes, it can be easy to match the brand, style, color, and product line of the existing shingles. In other times, your old shingles may not be in production anymore, and using a different material may mean tearing off a large part of the roof, which adds to the cost.

2. What Needs Repairs

Different aspects of your roof may need repair, and they all affect the overall cost of the project. Skylights, chimneys, gutters, and other aspects of your roof can significantly increase the cost of roof repair. These components may need repairs to seal leaks or full replacement to restore the integrity of your roof.

3. The Scope of Repair

Depending on the amount of materials used on your roof, repair costs can vary widely. Roofers determine the size of repair by the square footage of the roof. Shingles are also sold by square footage, so the cost will depend on how much work is done on your roof and the area of the roof.

4. The Timing of Repair

The timing of roof repair projects can significantly influence the labor cost. Spring and early summer are often the most favorable times to carry out roof repairs. Since they are off-peak seasons, roofing contractors often charge lower labor costs, and the materials can be sourced at fair prices during these times.

5. The Experience of the Roofing Contractor

Finally, the experience of the roofing contractor will affect the repair estimate. Typically, an experienced roofer offers superior customer service, and you may have to pay more for their services. However, you can rest assured you’ll be getting exactly what you’re paying for in terms of the quality of the work.

Common Roof Damages which Call for Repairs

There are a number of damages which could be happening to your roof. Leaks, missing or broken shingles, and damaged flashing or underlayment are just a few of them. These damages can be easily fixed before they worsen and call for a more expensive roof replacement.

• Moisture Damage – When moisture penetrates past shingles, it can cause decay, rot, or mold and mildew growth. Many different issues can cause moisture damage, including cracked shingles, loose tiles, failed sealants, or torn underlayment.
• Punctures and Cracks – Poor attic insulation can cause cracks or punctures on shingles. Careless steps or improper handling of tools can also cause punctures on underlayment, moisture barriers, flashing, or seals.
• Loose and Broken Shingles – Improperly installed shingles can over time get loose and fall off. Strong winds can blow off shingles, especially if the flashings were not properly secured using the right adhesives. Heavy hail and the associated debris can also crack and break away shingles, calling for immediate replacement of the affected shingles with new patches.

When to Replace Rather than Repair

There are instances when it makes sense to replace the entire roof rather than repair a few damaged areas. Bare, grayed-out shingles, rust, moss growth, or piles of shingle granules in your gutters are all signs you need a full roof replacement. When roofing materials enter the last years of their life span, they can wear out and get fragile. A professional roofing contractor can carry out a thorough roof inspection and advise if your roof requires minor repairs or a full replacement.

Ultimately, working with a local, trusted roofing contractor who is experienced with roof repairs will give you peace of mind knowing you’re paying a fair price and getting exemplary work and service. Contact Couto Construction in Southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and Rhode Island for all your roof repair needs.