Unless you notice a leak, you probably don’t give your roof too much thought. But then, you may lose sleep wondering if that leak can be patched or whether you will have to pay for a roof replacement.

Here are some things to consider as you determine whether to repair, patch, or replace your roof.

Signs That Something Is Wrong with Your Roof

Sometimes roof damage can be obvious. For example, you may notice missing shingles on your roof after a strong Midwestern storm or see water dripping through your ceiling while it is raining.

However, sometimes roof damage can be subtle. Inside, you may notice the presence of water spots and discoloration in the attic or on the ceiling of your top-most floor.

If you can safely inspect the exterior of your roof, you may see small areas on your roof’s surface where the shingles seem warped or cracked. In addition, upon close inspection, you may notice a distortion in the areas where the roof meets the exterior walls.

Another sign that your roof may need repair or replacement can be found by examining your gutters and downspouts. You may notice tiny granules clogging the gutters or washing out the downspouts. These granules come from damaged shingles or those exposed to sunlight for too long.

These obvious and not-so-obvious warning signs mean that you need to take action immediately. Remember, a leaking roof can cause a lot of issues. To avoid mold and structural problems, you need to take action and reach out to a roofing professional in your community to see if you need a roof repair or replacement.

Unfortunately, some homeowners avoid scheduling an inspection with a roofing company because they may worry that the company will recommend a costly replacement instead of a roof repair. Here are a few ways to tell the difference.

When You Need Roof Repair

In most cases, roof repair is the preferred option. Of course, repairs are less expensive than a roof replacement. Patches and repairs can extend the life of your roof.

If your house or your roof is somewhat new, chances are you can repair the damage. In fact, if the roof is under warranty, you can contact the manufacturer for free roof repairs.

Another thing to consider is how the damage happened. If you know that a recent major storm caused the damage, you may be more likely to be facing a repair instead of a replacement. Additionally, your homeowner’s insurance may cover such repairs.

Finally, think about the extent of the damage. For example, repairs should fix your issues if you notice a small leak or a single missing shingle.

When to Replace the Roof

Age is the biggest indicator of when it is time to replace a roof instead of repairing it. Roofing systems typically last for 20 years, so if your roof is older, you might talk with your roofing company about whether a roof replacement would make more sense than repairs.

Contact Liberty Roofing, Siding, Gutters, and Windows

If you are a Kansas City homeowner who has noticed a few warning signs that something might be wrong with your roof, contact Liberty Roofing, Siding, Gutters, and Windows for a free estimate.