What are your options when you need a roof replaced?
Short answer. Your main options are how to pay for it (an insurance claim if storm damage is found, cash, contractor financing, a home equity loan, or an assistance program), what to put on (architectural shingles, impact-resistant shingles or metal), and the scope (full tear-off, a limited repair if the problem is local, or in rare cases an overlay).
Option 1: How to pay
- Insurance. If hail or wind damaged the roof, homeowners insurance may pay for replacement minus your deductible. Have the roof inspected for storm damage before assuming you are paying out of pocket.
- Cash. The simplest route, with no interest. Typical North Georgia replacements run roughly $8,000 to $16,000.
- Financing. Many roofers offer financing plans. Robust Roofing, for example, lists options on its financing page. Compare the rate, term and any fees with a home equity loan or line of credit.
- Assistance programs. Low-income and older homeowners in eligible rural areas may qualify for USDA home repair loans and grants, and some Georgia counties run repair programs.
Option 2: What to put on
- Architectural shingles: the standard choice, about 20 to 30 years in Georgia.
- Impact-resistant shingles: more resistance to hail and possibly an insurance discount. See impact-resistant shingles in Georgia.
- Metal: higher upfront cost, much longer life.
Option 3: How much to do
- Repair: if the roof is relatively young and the problem is one area.
- Full tear-off and replacement: the standard when the roof is worn or storm-damaged.
- Overlay: sometimes allowed over one sound layer, but it hides the deck and shortens the next roof's life.
For what drives the price, read roof replacement cost in Georgia.