The roof is one of the most vital elements in any building. It protects the occupants from rain, heat, snow, and other weather conditions. It allows lighting and electricity to be used in the property, and the roof has some bearing on the structural integrity of any building including homes. 

The worldwide roofing industry had a value of around $122 billion in 2022. This is expected to continue to increase to $160 billion by 2028. This is a reflection of the healthy construction sector in recent times. 

But, it isn’t just new roofs that help to boost the roofing industry, repairs are a major aspect too. The cost of a roof repair on average is $1,000 for homeowners, but depending on the damage, it can cost as much as $15,000 to fix a roof. Yet, some of these repairs might be a waste of money. 

When should you repair your roof?

One roofing company, Magnum, stated that there are plenty of signs to look for when assessing roof repairs. Homeowners often overlook their roofs until small problems are turning into much bigger, and more expensive, ones. 

Look for light in your attic

If you can see light from outside coming through then that is a sure sign you need to make some repairs. Small holes can turn into bigger issues, and allow pests, and rain to enter the home. 

Look for leaks

These aforementioned haps in tiles, and holes, will allow cold weather through, and water. If you have leaks in your roof then this can result in mold and mildew. Both of which can cause rot and affect the structure of your roof. 

Look for sagging in the roof

If your roof is sagging then this will be unmistakable. This is a clear sign that you need to call a roofing company. Sagging could be caused by poor construction, but it can also happen because of heavy snow or ice. Whatever the cause is, it shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re selling your home then you may be deciding which renovations to do. Fixing a sagging roof should be a priority. 

Increases in energy bills

Everyone has seen the news about energy bills rising, and most people will have experienced the increases firsthand. However, if you see sudden sharp increases in heating or cooling bills, it could be a sign that your roof isn’t adequately insulated. 

Problems with shingles

Roofing shingles can lose granules, become cracked, curl, and fall off during storms. Any signs such as these will require attention. 

Why might repairing a roof be a waste of money?

Clearly, if you have any of the problems listed above then your roof needs some attention. Many people will attempt to carry out DIY roof repairs. But, this can often do more damage than good, and an inexperienced person can overlook other issues that a professional roofer would spot. 

Two reasons why it might be wasteful to spend money on roof repairs are when the damage is too much, or the roof is too old. 

Roofs have a lifespan that can vary wildly depending on the materials used, weather conditions, and how well maintained it has been. In general, roofs are likely to last 15 to 20 years or more. Yet, some roofs can last for 50 to 100 years even. 

Realistically though, if your roof is around 25 years then it may make more sense to replace it than repair it. 

Is it time to replace your roof completely?

Apart from judging how long a roof can last, it may simply be that there is too much damage to repair. There might not be a golden rule to this, but you might consider any damage that covers 30% of the roof or more to be too much. While a replacement may cost $8,000 on average, a new roof will yield a 60% ROI. 

It may also be worth assessing the advantages of a replacement roof at this juncture. You can not only get a new roof installed, but you can choose more energy-efficient materials and ones that last longer. 

There are many advantages to a flat roof although they are only suitable in certain situations. But, you could look at green roofs, or switch to metal for a longer lifespan. It might also be prudent to look at roof replacements in the fall or winter. There is less demand during these periods, and you might get a lower quotation. 

Summary 

Roofing problems cannot be overlooked or underestimated. Yet, some repairs might simply be temporary fixes on a roof that is coming to the end of its life. It may be that the better option is to invest in a replacement roof rather than try to patch it up and ignore the inevitable. 

While it is easy to forget about the roof, it is worth giving it an inspection twice a year to ensure no small problems are threatening to cause further damage soon.