Your Roof: Repair or Replace?

The choice between repairing or replacing a roof isn't always clear-cut. Some problems—such as water leakage—often need only repair, while less visible damage can require roof replacement. What can you do to keep your roof in tip-top shape? Here are a few ideas:

Take a Look
Visually inspect your roof once a year. If you see bare spots, cracks, curls, warping, gaps or even missing shingles, do-it-yourself repairs are possible as long as you're comfortable with ladders, heights and your local home improvement store. If not, consider hiring a qualified contractor.

Monitor Storm Damage
While a roof may sustain visible damage from a heavy storm, hail or wind can cause problems that are not immediately noticeable: For example, grainy asphalt may wear away, or caulking around flashing may lose its seal. (Flashing is waterproof material, such as galvanized metal, which protects areas where the roof intersects with chimneys, vents, skylights and walls.) If your area has had severe weather in the past year, a professional roof inspection might be in order.

Watch the Clock
Asphalt shingles are very durable, but long-term exposure to the elements takes its toll. If your home's roof is more than 15 to 20 years old, consider asking a contractor if your roof is aging well—or needs replacement.

Need a Roof Makeover?
Your roof may need to be repaired, replaced or inspected when you see:

• bare spots, cracks, curls or warps in shingles
• dark, dirty-looking areas (due to fungus or tree debris)
• deteriorating flashing
• gaps between shingles or missing shingles
• leaks or water stains in attic or on interior walls
• sagging roofline