Your roofers can repair your roof if it has minor damage and a few missing shingles. On the other hand, they may recommend re-roofing or replacing the entire system when the damage is much to contain, and plenty of asphalt shingles are missing.

Re-roofing and replacing a roof has different benefits and suitable applications. You can learn about each of them below.

Re-Roofing

In case of emergencies, re-roofing is the best option. It has its respective pros and cons. Roofers will recommend it because it takes about a small percentage of the time it takes to replace an entire roof.

Pros

It's faster to re-roof than replace a roof. Your contractor will nail a new layer of asphalt shingles over the old system. This works much better than wrapping it in tarpaulin because it looks great and fills the roof area's missing and damaged shingles. Furthermore, its labor costs are much more affordable.

Cons

On the other hand, re-roofed materials only have a short lifespan and are prone to damage. The moisture from old asphalt shingles that transfer will soften the new shingles, affecting their integrity and performance. The moisture will soon dry, causing blisters, cracks, and splits in various areas of the roofing material.

When to Use

If you want to repair your roof fast and want to use something other than tarpaulin, re-roofing is a good alternative. It may cost more, but it improves your home's performance and curb appeal. However, we strongly recommend having a complete roof tear-off and replacement instead.

Roof Replacement

Replacing a roof is a practical investment rather than re-roofing. The service lets roofers inspect the entire roof system for damage. Roofers will remove all your asphalt shingles. Then, they would check the rafters and sheathing for wood rot and moisture damage. Aged roofs typically endure much structural damage due to moisture, and a roof tear-off restores their performance efficiently.

Pros

A roof replacement is the intended way to fix a roof. Roofers can examine the roof structure, ensure it can withstand the new roof material's weight, and replace them when necessary. Then, new asphalt shingles won't absorb any moisture from old shingles that were removed from the roof.

One more advantage is you will receive the material's full warranty benefit. For example, your roof's materials and labor will have full manufacturer coverage. If the roof material has defects or the labor failed due to specific issues, the manufacturer and roofer will address it for you.

Cons

Roof replacement has its downsides. The service takes a few weeks to a month to accomplish, making it slower than the week-long average re-roofing replacement period. 

This service is also noisy, especially if you intend to stay in your home throughout the project. You and your family will remain relatively safe during a roof replacement, but the hammering and loud noises can wake you up or disrupt your work in the home office.

When to Use

It is highly recommended to have roof replacements than a re-roof. The service lets roofers check the roof's actual condition and suggest ways to improve and upgrade it. Furthermore, it gives you full warranty coverage and a guaranteed long-term roof lifespan and performance.

With SJ Winn Construction, your roof is in good hands. Numerous houses and neighborhoods in your area trust us because of our dedication to high-quality roofing services. As a GAF-certified roofer, you'll always see top results with our team of professionals, so call us today.