A home’s roof is one of its most significant investments. Whether it needs repairs or a replacement depends on many factors.
The Chicago area experiences severe weather that can damage a roof, including gale-force winds and hail. These conditions can cause dents in shingles and leaks. Repairing is an option but year after year of repairs can add up to a costly replacement.
Cost
The cost of Roofing Services in Chandler AZ can vary widely, depending on the extent of damage and your roof’s age. Some structural problems require a replacement, while surface damage may be repairable.
Leaks and other minor issues typically cost less to fix than structural problems. However, if you’re constantly patching up the same issue, it will eventually add up to an expensive repair or even total replacement.
Roofing material is another major factor in costs. Cedar, poplar, and sugar pine are some common materials that can be cut into shakes or shingles. Shakes offer a rustic appearance but are prone to moisture damage over time, while shingles have a more modern look and last about 30 years.
Other factors that can increase your roof’s repair costs include:
Time
When it comes to roof repair or replacement, the amount of time needed will depend on the size of your home and the extent of the damage. If your entire roof is damaged or leaking, it will take much longer to replace the roof than if the damage is isolated to a small area.
Roof repairs are also a great option for situations where your roof is only damaged in certain areas, such as a fallen tree causing dents or a storm resulting in minor shingle dings. However, a repair does not address underlying issues and may need to be repeated in the future.
When having your roof replaced, it is important to keep your pets away from the construction site, as they may not adjust well to hammering and strangers in their home. If possible, it is best to put them with a friend or kennel service during the renovations. This will be much less stressful for them and will also save them from stepping on any stray nails!
Insurance
Many homeowners insurance policies include roof coverage under the dwelling section of your policy. Whether this is based on an actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost value (RCV), both options can provide substantial protection to your home.
ACV covers your roof’s value minus depreciation, while RCV takes into account the cost of replacing your current roof and subtracts the remaining lifespan of your original roof. Generally, RCV results in a higher payout than ACV.
Regardless of the type of coverage you choose, if your roof has sustained damage that warrants a claim, it’s important to keep records and photos of all relevant damages. Documenting the damage can help speed up your insurance claim approval process.
Also, remember that most insurance companies won’t pay to repair or replace a roof if it was damaged by neglect or wear and tear, so regular maintenance is critical to ensure longevity. In addition, many insurers have special deductibles for wind and hail damage that differ from your standard homeowner’s insurance deductible.