Should I repair or replace my roof?
Short answer. Repair if the roof is relatively young, the problem is limited to one spot or part, and the shingles are still flexible. Replace if the roof is near or past about 20 years in Georgia, leaks in more than one place, shows widespread granule loss, curling or cracking, or has storm damage across several slopes that insurance may cover.
Ask these questions in order
- Was there a storm? If hail or wind damage runs across the roof, a claim may pay for a replacement minus your deductible. Get an inspection before any repairs.
- How old is the roof? Architectural shingles in Georgia commonly last around 20 to 25 years, and 3-tab shingles less. A leak on an eight year old roof is almost always a repair.
- Is the problem local or general? One boot, one flashing joint, or a few shingles is a repair. Granule loss, curling or cracking on every slope is a replacement.
- Can it be repaired cleanly? Brittle shingles break when lifted, and discontinued colors will not match.
- How long will you stay? If you plan to sell, buyers and lenders scrutinize roof age, and a new roof can smooth the sale.
- What does your insurer require? Some carriers apply roof age rules or payment schedules to older roofs, and some non-renew them.
The middle option
Replacing one slope can be reasonable when one side took the damage and the match is acceptable, but on most homes a mismatched front slope is a poor result.
Do not wait for the ceiling
Roofs rarely fail all at once; they leak in more places each year. Pricing a replacement before the leaks spread gives you time to plan, compare quotes and schedule in good weather. Robust Roofing's roof replacement page explains its process.
See signs you need a new roof, how long roofs last in Georgia and replacement cost.