Roof Repair or Replacement? How to Decide

Most people call a roofer because of one problem: a leak, a few missing shingles, a stain on the ceiling. The question that comes next is bigger: fix that spot, or replace the roof? Here's how to think it through. It's the same reasoning we use when we write an estimate.

Start with five questions

1. How old is the roof?

Age isn't everything, but it sets the odds. A roof in the first half of its life with one damaged area is almost always a repair. A roof near the end of its expected life with the same damage is a different conversation, because the next problem is probably close behind. See how long a roof lasts in Louisville for typical ranges.

2. Is the damage in one place, or all over?

A lifted shingle, a cracked pipe boot or loose flashing around a chimney is local. Granule loss, curling or cracking across every slope means the shingles themselves are wearing out, and patching one spot won't change that.

3. What does the decking feel like?

The decking is the wood under the shingles. If it's solid, a repair can last. If it's soft or spongy in more than one place, water has been getting in for a while. Fixing that properly usually means taking the roof off.

4. How many layers are on it now?

Some roofs have new shingles laid over old ones. Building codes based on the International Residential Code don't allow a new layer over two or more existing layers, or over a roof that's water-soaked or deteriorated. If your roof already has two layers, a replacement means a full tear-off.

5. Was it a storm?

If the damage came from hail or wind, your homeowner's insurance may cover it, depending on your policy. Storm damage is often spread across several slopes, which can make a replacement the better fix. Our guide to Kentucky hail claims walks through how that works.

When a repair makes sense

• The roof is in the first half or two-thirds of its expected life

• The problem is in one area: a pipe boot, a flashing joint, a few shingles, a vent

• The decking underneath is solid

• The rest of the roof is in good shape

Repairs are worth doing well. A good repair fixes the cause, not just the spot you noticed. A missing shingle on one slope often means wind has loosened others nearby, so we check the whole roof. See roof repair and roof leak repair.

When a replacement is usually the better spend

• You're paying for repairs on the same roof year after year

• Shingles are worn on every slope, not just one

• The decking is soft in more than one place

• There are already two layers of shingles

• Storm damage covers several slopes

• You're planning to stay in the home for years, and the roof is near the end of its life anyway

A few things people don't think about

Matching. Shingles fade, and styles get discontinued. A repair on an older roof may not match at first. On a front-facing slope, that matters to some homeowners more than others.

Selling soon? Buyers' home inspectors look hard at roofs. A roof near the end of its life can come up in negotiations, so it's worth knowing where yours stands before you list.

Ventilation. Many older roofs don't vent the attic well. Heat and moisture trapped in the attic shorten shingle life. A replacement is the easiest time to fix ventilation. A repair usually isn't.

Louisville weather. Freeze-thaw nights in winter widen any gap water gets into, spring storms bring hail and wind, and summer heat dries out sealants. A small problem left through one winter is often a bigger one by spring.

Our approach

We'll repair your roof if a repair will hold. If replacement is the better spend, we'll show you why with photos. When it's close, we'll give you a written estimate for both, so you can decide. If you're paying out of pocket, financing is available for qualified homeowners.

Common questions

Can you replace just part of a roof?

Sometimes, for example one slope with storm damage. It can work if the rest of the roof is in good shape, but matching and how the new section ties into the old one both matter. We'll tell you honestly whether it's a good idea for your roof.

Is it OK to put new shingles over old ones?

Codes based on the International Residential Code allow it only in limited cases. Never over two or more existing layers, or over a roof that's water-soaked or deteriorated. A tear-off also lets us see and fix the decking.

How do I know how much life my roof has left?

An inspection is the most reliable way. We look at granule loss, curling, cracking and the decking, and you get photos of each slope.

Will insurance pay for a new roof?

If the damage came from a covered event like hail or wind, it may, depending on your policy and deductible. Wear and tear from age usually isn't covered.

Not sure which one you need?

Get a free roof inspection. You'll get photos of what we find, and a written estimate for the repair, the replacement, or both. Call 502-864-7663 or request your inspection. See also roof replacement.