Roof Repair vs. Replacement: When is it Time?
Published on December 21, 2025
Your roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements. But like everything else, it doesn't last forever. If you've noticed a leak or missing shingles, you're faced with a big question: Can I just repair it, or do I need a whole new roof?
When to Repair
Repairs are cost-effective and can extend the life of your roof if the damage is localized.
- Missing Shingles: If a storm blew off a few shingles, replacing them is usually easy.
- Minor Leaks: A leak around a chimney flashing or vent pipe can often be fixed without touching the rest of the roof.
- Age: If your roof is relatively new (under 15 years), a repair makes the most sense.
When to Replace
Sometimes, a patch job is just throwing good money after bad. A replacement is necessary when:
- Curling or Buckling Shingles: This indicates the shingles are past their lifespan.
- Massive Granule Loss: If your gutters are full of granules, your shingles are losing their UV protection.
- Sagging Structure: A sagging roof deck is a serious structural issue that requires immediate attention and full replacement.
- Age: Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20-25 years. If yours is older, it's living on borrowed time.
The Bottom Line
A professional inspection is the only way to know for sure. At DAB General Contractor, we give honest assessments. We won't sell you a new roof if a repair will do the job.
Schedule your free roof inspection today!