Roof Repair vs. Replacement: How to Decide as an NJ Homeowner

With its harsh winters, storms, and extreme seasonal changes, New Jersey’s climate is a challenging one. This inclement weather can cause serious damage to any property that is not adequately protected. 

When it comes to protecting your home from the elements, your roof is one of the most important and one of the most vulnerable aspects of your property. From missing tiles and small leaks to sagging roofs and major structural issues, roof damage puts you, your family, and your property at risk.

If your roof is looking past its best or suffering from damage, taking action now can prevent much more costly problems later on. But is it time to replace your roof, or will a simple repair do the job? Read on to learn more and make the right choice. 

Understanding the Difference Between Roof Repair and Replacement

Roof repairs can take many different forms. Patching leaks, replacing shingles, fixing flashing, and sealing problem areas are all common types of roof repairs. A roof replacement, on the other hand, involves completely removing the existing roof and installing a new system. Depending on the condition of the roof, it may also involve repairs or adjustments to the underlying structures before the new roof is installed. 

Key Factors to Consider Before Deciding

Repairing or replacing your roof can be an expensive and time-consuming project. Therefore, it is essential to ensure you are choosing the most appropriate course of action before you begin. Here are five key factors to consider as you make your decision. 

Age of Your Roof

If your roof is more than 20 years old, it is almost certainly time to consider a replacement. The older the roof, the greater the risk of serious problems and underlying structural damage. This can mean that patchwork repairs are ineffective in the long run, leading to greater costs in the future. If your roof is less than 10 years old, it will almost certainly not require replacing unless it has suffered extensive damage. 

Asphalt shingles, one of the most common roofing materials in New Jersey, can last 15-30 years with proper care, with their exact lifespan depending on an array of factors including local weather patterns and maintenance practices. Other roofing materials, such as metal and slate, can potentially last far longer with proper care. 

Extent of the Damage

If your roof is damaged, the extent of this damage will be a key factor in deciding whether to repair or replace it. 

Small areas of isolated damage, such as a few missing shingles, minor dents and scratches, or some damaged flashing, generally require only minor repairs. Larger areas of damage, however, may indicate that a full roof replacement is needed. Visible leaks or water damage, moss or mold growth, roof sagging, frequent leaks, or visible daylight from the attic are all signs of significant roof damage for which a simple repair may not be adequate. 

Cost Comparison

A complete roof replacement will cost more than isolated repairs. However, this can be a false economy. If your roof is significantly damaged, patchwork repairs will only prolong the inevitable need for a replacement. In addition, the resulting leaks or sagging can result in more extensive damage to your home which may be costly to put right. A damaged roof can also reduce your home’s energy efficiency, increasing your monthly heating and cooling costs. 

It is difficult to give exact figures for the cost of roof repair or replacement in New Jersey. However, in general, repairs can cost anything from $300 to $1500, while a complete roof replacement will typically cost $7000 to $15,000 or occasionally more, depending on your home’s square footage and your chosen materials. 

Energy Efficiency and  Home Value

Repairing or replacing your roof can significantly improve your home’s insulation. This can keep your home warm, protect your family from the elements during NJ’s harsh winters, and reduce your monthly energy bills. 

A new or well-repaired roof can also add to your home’s resale value. When considering purchasing a home, New Jersey buyers expect the property’s roof to be in good condition, aesthetically appealing, and free from any visible signs of age or damage. They also expect that it is up to the standard set out by regulations and local building codes. 

Weather and Seasonal Timing

New Jersey’s seasonal climate, with its extreme temperature fluctuations and storms, makes the timing of your roof replacement critical. If your roof has sustained damage during the winter, for example, you may choose to conduct minor repairs now before planning a full replacement in the warmer months. 

Though you can repair or replace your roof year-round, the optimal times to do so are spring and fall. This allows you to avoid the freezing winters and intense summer heat that are common here in the Garden State, as well as reducing the risk of a storm hitting during the project. 

When Roof Repair Makes the Most Sense

If the damage to your roof is localized and minor, and if the roof is relatively new or in the middle of the typical lifespan for its type, a repair is likely the optimal choice. Missing shingles after a storm, damage to the sealing around your flashing, and small leaks when it rains are all issues that can be addressed with a simple repair. 

If you have major budget constraints or are in need of a short-term solution quickly, choosing to repair your roof can also make financial sense. 

When Roof Replacement is the Better Option

If your roof is nearing or past its expected lifespan, if there are multiple problem areas or underlying structural issues, and if repairs have become frequent and costly, it is likely time to replace your roof. Extensive storm damage of the type not fully covered by insurance may also indicate that a replacement is the best choice. 

If you plan to sell your home in the near future, a roof replacement can be a smart investment in enhancing its appeal to prospective buyers and increasing its value. 

Roof Replacement and Repair in New Jersey: NJ-Specific Considerations

New Jersey’s challenging weather conditions can have an impact on both roof installation projects and roof longevity. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right roofing materials. Asphalt shingles are popular in NJ due to their affordability, durability, and the wide range of styles on offer. Metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular for its excellent durability and energy-efficiency. Tile and slate roofs are a more costly option, but offer both a long lifespan and a high-end aesthetic. 

In addition to the state’s weather patterns, there are several local considerations NJ homeowners will need to bear in mind. NJ homes are subject to strict laws, building codes, and permit requirements. Before you begin any roofing project, ensure you understand the regulations that will apply to it.

Choosing a local roofing contractor such as Matute allows you to benefit from professional local knowledge. Make sure you plan ahead to secure any permits in time and to ensure that your chosen contractors are available on a schedule that works for you.  

Insurance and Warranties

Before you commit to any roof repair or replacement project, check your home insurance policies and any warranties that apply to your roof. 

Many home insurance policies will cover localized damage in the event of storms or other circumstances outside of your control. Some will also cover a roof replacement if the damage is severe enough to make repairs costly or impossible. Most policies will not cover ordinary wear and tear, roofs that are approaching or have exceeded their expected lifespan, or problems caused by homeowner actions or negligence. 

If you decide to go ahead with a roof replacement, make sure you understand the manufacturers’ or contractors’ warranty for your new roof. This will likely cover materials and installation. Warranties can be voided if you do not choose a certified contractor, if you attempt unauthorized repairs, or by neglect and poor maintenance. 

Next Steps for Homeowners: Get Your Free Estimate

We hope this post has helped you to make an informed decision regarding whether to repair or replace your roof. If you are still not sure or would like some professional advice, contact a local roofing contractor to schedule a roof inspection. 

Ask your prospective contractor questions like: 

• “Are you and any subcontractors you use licensed and insured?”

• “How long have you been performing roofing work in NJ?”

• “Do you offer finance or payment plans?” 

• “What kind of warranty will this project be covered by?”

• “Are you an authorized installer of this manufacturer’s products?” 

• “Can you provide a written, itemized estimate?” 

• “What do I need to do to prepare my home for this project?” 

If your contractor cannot answer all of these questions thoroughly and transparently, look elsewhere. We recommend getting quotes from several NJ-licensed roofers to compare before you make a decision. 

Ultimately, the choice whether to repair or replace your roof will depend on the roof’s age, the severity of any damage, and your long-term goals for your home. Regular inspections and timely repairs of small issues can help to prevent them from becoming big problems. 

To schedule your free, no-obligation inspection or estimate, please contact the Matute Roofing team today.