You Should Consider a Roof Replacement When…

Choosing between a roof replacement and a roof repair can be a difficult decision to make for San Mateo homeowners. On one hand, you don’t want to spend money on repair only to have to replace the roof sooner than you expected. On the other hand, you don’t want to invest in a roof replacement when a few repairs would have solved your roofing problems or leaks.

So how do you know when you should repair or replace? It’s easier in some cases than others. Some of the most common reasons homeowners decide on a roof replacement are the age of the roof, whether or not it the shingles were properly installed, improper installation techniques, inferior roofing materials and storm damage.

If none of those apply, head outside and take a look with a pair of binoculars. (We seriously advise against walking on your roof to avoid damaging your roofing shingles and your body.)

Start by looking for the most obvious telltale signs, which include missing, curled or cracked roof shingles. Next, search for the less obvious clues. Look for water damaged roof decking (this could be hard to see since the decking is underneath your roofing shingles). Examine your gutters and downspouts for any little pebbles of asphalt, indicating the asphalt shingles are deteriorating.

There are also interior signs that your roof needs replacing. Is there water damage around ceilings or skylights, especially after a rain shower? Does the interior wall paint show water stains, blistering or peeling? Are there moisture spots on the roof and in the attic? The presence of moisture means a roof leak, but a leaking roof doesn’t automatically call for a roof replacement.

The reason(s) why a roof leaks and the severity determines if a roof repair or replacement is in order. A leak is inevitable if the installing roofer used low-quality asphalt shingles or bad installation practices. We see this more often in roofs installed by the previous homeowner.

So you have signs of interior roof leaks or exterior roof damage. Now what? Calling San Mateo roofing contractors for an inspection and estimate is the first place to start. Roof replacement is a serious investment in your home so it’s important to work with a San Mateo roofing company you can trust to use quality shingles and the best installation practices. Of course, that trust is established from the time of inspection. A trained and trusted roofing inspector will:

• Help you decide between a roof repair and a roof replacement
• Show you the signs of damaged shingles or an aging roof system to back up his recommendation