Repair or Replace Your Roof in Chicago – Pros and Cons for Asphalt Shingles
When homeowners in Chicagoland notice damage to their roof, they face a dilemma – asphalt shingles repair or replace the roof. Unfortunately, the harsh climate, strong winds, rain, and snow have a strong impact on the condition of your roof. Even premium materials fail sooner or later. That is why we have prepared this asphalt roof repair vs roof replacement guide for you. Below you will find out when it is better to choose one or the other option, what it depends on, and how much both solutions will cost in Chicago.
Factors to Consider: Asphalt Shingles Repair or Replace Your Roof
To make the right choice regarding asphalt shingles repair or replace near me, you should consider the main 4 factors. They help you determine if you need repair or replacement.
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Roof Age
The service life of asphalt shingles depends on their type:
- 3-tab shingles last approximately 15-30 years.
- Architectural shingles are more durable and can last 20-30 years.
- Premium shingles have the longest service life – 25-40 years.
Signs of aging include granule loss, curling, and cracks. These are the signs of tile wear.
Therefore, if the roof is old or shows significant signs of wear, it is more profitable to replace it completely than to carry out frequent repairs.
Extent of Shingle Damage (Cracks) and Professional Roof Inspections
To make the right decision about roof repair versus replacement depreciation, you need to assess the extent of the damage:
- Minor roof issues (such as cracked parts of the roof or missing shingles) can be solved with simple repairs.
- Structural damage (such as damage to the roof deck or frame) may require complete replacement to maintain safety and stability.
We recommend contacting a professional contractor to address this issue, as you may not notice serious problems from the outside, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist.
Budget and Insurance Considerations
So, can a roof be repaired instead of replaced to save money? In the Chicago area, repairs cost between $200 and $5,000, depending on the extent of the damage. Replacement is much more expensive, averaging about $20,540.
Insurance may cover part of the cost of repair or replacement after a storm. However, it’s best to have a professional contractor assess the damage to support your insurance claim before submitting a claim.
Impact on Home Value in Chicago
A new roof can increase the value of a house by 60% of its value. For example, with an investment of $29,136, the value of a house can increase by $17,807. In addition, new shingles look neat and inspire confidence in the strength of the house, which is important in a competitive real estate market like Chicago. So consider this and think long-term, do not allow improper installation.
Whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, our expert team in Chicago is here to help.
When Should You Choose Professional Roof Repair?
In some situations, repairing asphalt shingles is a more practical solution than complete replacement. For example, if only a few shingles are damaged (e.g., after a storm), they can be replaced without having to replace the entire roof. However, it is important to check that the substrate under the tiles is not damaged.
Leaks are also common, often caused by gaps in the trim, and these too can be eliminated by sealing or replacing the trim around the edges.
Additionally, if the shingles have just started to curl or crack, they can be fixed by using a sealant under the damaged areas to prevent water from entering.
Benefits of repair:
- Cost-effective – Repairs are much cheaper than a full roof replacement.
- Less disturbance to everyday life – Repairs are less time-consuming and less noisy.
- Extends the life of the new roof – Quick repairs of minor damage prevent them from becoming serious problems.
Explore our collection of informative and engaging videos on roof repair.
When Should You Choose Replacing Damaged Roofs?
Let’s look at 3 situations when homeowners require a full roof replacement:
- End of roof’s lifespan – An asphalt shingle roof typically lasts 20-25 years. If it has reached this age or older, replacement is advisable as the roofing materials begin to break down and the roof becomes less effective in protecting the home.
- Structural damage – Sagging or damaged substrate under the roof are serious problems. This can indicate structural weakness due to moisture or insufficient support, making replacement necessary for safety.
- Severe weather damage – If more than 30% of the roof is damaged after a storm, a complete replacement will be more cost-effective than repairs. Keep in mind that hail damage or loss of granules on the shingles can leave the roof vulnerable to water.
Yes, it is more expensive and longer. However, you will receive unique benefits compared to repairs:
- Modern shingles with reflective properties reduce the heating of the house and reduce cooling and heating costs by 10-20% per year.
- A new roof usually has a warranty of up to 30 years, sometimes even longer.
- A new roof can increase the value of a home by up to 15% as it improves the appearance, increases energy efficiency, and attracts buyers with its reliability and minimal need for repairs.
Repair vs Reroofing vs Roof Replacement Cost
Tips to Choose the Right Roofing Contractor in Chicago
Why is it important to hire professional roofers if so many people neglect it? First, quality work and safety. Experts have all the necessary skills, as well as knowledge of quality repair techniques and safety rules.
Secondly, time and money efficiency. Professionals have access to the best materials, and do the job quickly and without mistakes, so you save money in every sense.
Third, don’t forget about compliance with building codes, warranties, and insurance. Roofing professional contractors will comply with all local building codes in Chicago, and they will also provide you with a warranty on their work and materials.
What to Look for in a Local Roofing Company?
Also consider these tips when choosing:
- Experience in the Chicago climate – Choose a company that knows the peculiarities of the local climate and uses appropriate materials.
- Quality materials – Make sure they use quality materials from reputable manufacturers.
- Warranty and insurance – Check for a warranty on materials and labor, as well as insurance.
- License and certificates – Make sure the company is licensed and certified.
- Reputation and testimonials – Check the company’s testimonials and reputation.
Conclusion
So, as you can imagine, the answer to the question “Should I patch or replace my roof?” cannot be universal for many reasons. Always pay attention to the extent of the damage, the age of the roof, your financial capabilities, and the long-term benefits. In addition, don’t neglect the importance of advice and services from roofing companies. They will help you identify the damage and quickly fix it with the right method.
FAQ
How long should an asphalt shingle roof last in the Chicago area?
An asphalt roof in Chicago typically lasts 20 to 25 years, depending on the quality of the materials and the operating conditions. Severe winters and frequent temperature changes can shorten this period slightly.
Can I repair a roof leak myself, or should I call a professional?
Some people may try to repair minor roof damage on their own. But if the leak is serious or the cause is not obvious, it is better to call a professional. He or she will pinpoint the cause of the problem and perform the repair process efficiently to avoid further damage to your roof.
What are the typical costs for repairing vs. replacing a roof in Chicago and its suburbs?
Roof repairs can cost between $300 and $1,000, depending on the extent of the damage. A complete roof replacement will cost approximately $5,000-$12,000, including materials and labor.
How does Chicago’s weather affect the lifespan of my roof?
Chicago’s weather, with its high winds, snow, rain, and temperature extremes, is a major enemy for roofs. Strong winds can tear off buckled shingles, snow and ice can damage gutters, and frequent temperature changes cause materials to expand and contract, which can cause cracks.
Can insurance cover the cost of a roof replacement after a storm?
Yes, if you have appropriate home insurance, it may cover the cost of replacing your roof if the damage was caused by a storm, hail, or other natural disaster. However, to receive compensation, you will need to provide the insurance company with proof of damage and comply with all the terms of the insurance policy.
