Does a Leak in My Roof Mean I Need to Get it Replaced?

Find Out What Your Roof Needs to Continue Keeping You Safe

If your roof is leaking, one thing is certain – you need to get it fixed fast. But what exactly does fixing a leaky roof effectively entail? You may think that a well-placed patch is all you need, but in some situations, more extreme measures need to be taken.

Some roofers will tell you that a leaky roof needs to be completely replaced, and in certain circumstances, they’re right. See what our roofing experts have to say about the circumstances that make such a solution necessary, and how to tell if your roof needs more than a basic patch.

When is a Patch Enough?

If the damage to your roof is limited to a small, singular leak that is detected quickly, a patch can be a quick, easy solution. However, multiple or frequent leaks should not be solved with patches.

A roofing patch is designed to address a flaw that’s confined to a small area of your roof. Unfortunately, many small roofing issues can indicate larger structural problems that a patch can’t fix, and even when they don’t, small damages can spread rapidly. If you don’t catch a leak in time, it may grow beyond what a patch can cover. Additionally, a patch will be visibly different from the rest of your roof, making the repairs obvious.

Ultimately, a patch should only be considered if your roof is already fairly new or doesn’t have any other obvious issues, and even then, only with advisement from our licensed roofers.

Why Would You Need a Full Roof Replacement for Tiny Leak?

At the end of the day, a full replacement is the best way to ensure that a leak has not left any other component of your roof vulnerable. If roofing professionals recommend a replacement as a solution for what appears to be a small leak, then chances are your roof is not structurally sound enough to protect you from potential side effects or residual damages.

Your Roof May Already Be Compromised

As stated, a patch only addresses a small area of damaged roof. It won’t do anything to stop further leaks from developing if other weak spots are present.

Additional weak points that a standard patch won’t address include:

  • Missing shingles
  • Sagging areas
  • Cracking
  • Frequent leaking
  • Flashing issues
  • Curled shingles

Tiny Leaks Can Lead to Big Problems

A leak is one of the most damaging issues that your roof can experience. Not only do leaks allow water to enter your living space, but they also allow that same water to damage the inner structures of your roof, causing serious damage. If you choose to simply patch a leak and move on, you could find yourself dealing with serious issues later on, including:

  • Mold and mildew
  • Attic or ceiling damage
  • Damage to joists, framing, and other essential structures

Which Solution is Right for You?

When making any decisions about your roof, it’s best to get a professional opinion. DIY roofing fixes often ignore crucial flaws that our roofers are trained to detect, and don’t extend your roof’s lifespan the way professional repairs do. Let our trained and licensed roofers inspect your roof, determine the extent of the damages, and advise you on the best course of action. We also provide regular roofing inspection services that can prevent leaks from developing in the future!

Call (719) 497-1005 today to schedule an appointment with our roofers! We can give you a fast, accurate assessment of your roof and let you know if a full replacement is necessary.

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