What Should You Do When You Have Visibly Damaged Roof Shingles?

Improper installation can lead to your shingles breaking prematurely. Therefore, it's crucial that you hire only skilled and experienced roofers for your roof installation to avoid such problems. Other common causes include high or sustained winds and ice damming. Additionally, natural wear and tear can lead to broken shingles, which you may be able to see upon a simple inspection as your roof nears the end of its useful lifespan. 

Why It Matters 

Before you can start considering your options when you have visibly damaged or broken shingles, you need to understand why it's important to do something about the situation. 

First, fixing damaged shingles helps to prevent damage to plywood. Water will easily seep underneath broken shingles and get onto the plywood. Enough water damage and your plywood will delaminate or rot, which can open up to major problems, namely leaks and encouraging mold growth. 

Secondly, damaged shingles will take away from your roof’s aesthetics and your property’s overall curb appeal. Fix the damaged shingles, and you can restore the aesthetics. This can be especially beneficial if you are looking to put up your home for sale, as the improved curb appeal can help you fetch a good price for your home. 

With the potential repercussions of damaged shingles in mind, you will want to ensure you fix the problem as soon as possible. Delays may only end up limiting your options as far as viable solutions go. Similarly, the longer you wait, the more it may cost you to implement these fixes, as the damage will only be more extensive. 

What to Do: Repair Vs. Replace 

With damaged shingles, you have the option to either repair your roof or replace it entirely. Repairing in this context means fixing the damaged shingles or otherwise replacing just the broken shingles. On the other hand, you can always choose to replace the entire roof. 

An informed decision will mean considering the following main factors 

1 . Age of Roof/Shingle 

How old is your roof? If your roof is relatively new and well within its shingle warranty and lifespan, then you can go with hiring a professional roofer to replace the damaged shingles.  

On the other hand, if you are approaching or already at the end of your roof’s shingle warranty, then you are better off going with a roof replacement. 

2. Extent of Damage 

How big of a section of your roof are you working with? Are you looking at just a few damaged shingles here and there, or are these damaged shingles spread over a large section of the roof? Professional roof inspections Utah can provide answers to these questions. 

If only a small section of your roof is compromised, then repairs will suffice. On the other hand, a roof replacement may be the better option for you if the damage is extensive and the broken shingles make up for a big section of your roof. 

3. Cost 

Repairing the damaged shingles is typically cheaper than replacing your roof. While you may want to replace your roof, your budget may not allow it. Cost is, therefore, a crucial factor to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your roof if there are visibly damaged shingles on it. 

On matters of cost, consult with your insurer and find out whether the insurance company will cover the cost. Your roofer may also be able to provide some financing options if you are keen on getting a roof replacement but cannot afford the upfront cost at the time. 

Get Expert Help 

Have a professional roofer come around and inspect your roof when you notice damaged shingles. At Bob Harvey Roofing, you can get professional repair or replacement for your damagd shingles. You can look forward to quality workmanship backed by a valid warranty. You can trust us for professional roof inspections Utah.