When your roof is damaged in a storm, it might need to be replaced. However, repairs might be possible. Call a roofer to inspect your roof when it has damage. Here are some factors that may determine if roof repairs are possible and when a roof replacement may be needed instead.

When Damage Is In A Small Area

Roof repairs might be possible if the damage is just on one side of your roof. If a few shingles blew off or a small part of the deck was punctured, the roofer might make repairs if the rest of the roof is in good shape. They can replace bad shingles and even patch up part of the deck so your roof won't leak. When damage covers all sides of the roof, a replacement might be needed, but it depends on how many shingles are involved.

When Shingles Have Hail Damage

Hail damage is bad for an asphalt shingle roof. If your roofer finds hail bruises all over the deck, they may recommend replacing the shingles. A few shingles can be replaced, but when many shingles need to be replaced, your roof might have an odd appearance with new shingles mixed in with the old ones. Plus, the goal of the roofer is to make sure your roof won't start leaking in the future due to the hail bruises, so it's important to replace every shingle that has been hit and damaged by hail.

What Your Insurance Company Will Pay For

Roof repairs for hail damage can be expensive, and your homeowner's insurance might help with the cost. They may offer to pay for repairs or a roof replacement. If your roof has extensive damage, even if it's just confined to the shingles, the insurance company may pay for a roof replacement. If so, the roof repair contractor will handle the details with your insurance company.

When Your Roof Is Already Old

If your roof is old and damaged in a storm, you might want to make repairs if the cost of the repairs is much less than a replacement. However, if repairs will be costly, talk with your roof repair contractor about replacement versus repairs based on the expected lifespan of your roof.

It may be worth it to pay less and get a few more years of life from your roof, but if you have the budget for it, you may want to go ahead and replace all of the shingles. Your roofer and insurance company can help you make the best decision for your home and budget.

For more info about roof replacement, contact a local company.