How do you fix a roof?
Option 1: Spot repair
Best for roofs under about 15 years old with a single problem, such as a cracked pipe boot, a few missing shingles or a flashing failure. It is quick, inexpensive and, done right, lasts as long as the roof.
Option 2: Section or slope replacement
Used when one slope took the damage, say from a tree strike or wind on one side, and matching shingles are available. It can look patchy if the old shingles have faded or the line is discontinued.
Option 3: Full replacement
The right call when the roof is near the end of its life (architectural shingles in Georgia usually give about 20 to 30 years), when damage is spread across slopes, when repairs keep recurring, or when hail has bruised the whole roof and insurance covers replacement. A full replacement tears off to the deck, replaces bad decking, and installs new underlayment, flashing, vents and shingles. Most average roofs take about a day, and typical North Georgia replacements run roughly $8,000 to $16,000.
How to decide
- How old is the roof, and how do the shingles look away from the damage?
- Did a storm cause it? If so, document it and have it inspected before repairing, since it may be a covered loss.
- Can the shingles be matched?
- How many leaks or repairs have there been in the past few years?
- How long will you own the home?
See signs you need a new roof and roof replacement cost in Georgia, or Robust Roofing's roof replacement page.