Imagine you wake up one morning and find that a storm has damaged half of your roof. You are faced with a dilemma: should you replace only the damaged half, or the entire roof? You might think that replacing only half a roof would save you money and time, but is it really a good idea?
In this blog post, we will explore the question, ‘Can you replace half a roof?’ along with the pros and cons of doing so. We will also give you a step-by-step process on how to handle a half-roof replacement if you are bound to a budget. By the end of this blog post, you will be able to make an informed decision about your roof and avoid costly mistakes.
Experts Comment On Half-Roof Replacement
We usually don’t recommend that our customers replace only half of a roof or just a part of it. The reasons and risks associated with a half-roof replacement are numerous, and we’ve briefly discussed these below. However, if you’re still considering a partial roof replacement due to budget constraints or personal reasons, we have curated a step-by-step procedure to make this task easier and more practical for you.
A half-roof replacement might seem easy and practical to many home and business owners, as it allows for replacing only the damaged part while leaving the rest intact. However, if your goal is to maintain the roof’s aesthetic appeal and durability for a long time, we wouldn’t recommend opting for a half-roof replacement. In addition to this option, we suggest considering a complete roof repair or replacement.
Risks Involved
The reasons why we don’t suggest choosing a half-roof replacement are as follows.
1. A Mismatched Appearance
Even with a careful selection of materials, it can be challenging to achieve an exact match between the new and existing roofing sections. This can result in a visible difference in color, texture, or style, impacting the overall aesthetic appeal of the roof.
2. Potential For Future Issues
Despite how easy a half-roof replacement may sound, it isn’t a practical approach. By replacing only half of the roof, there is a possibility that the remaining older section may have a shorter lifespan or be prone to future damage. In addition, the older portion may require more frequent maintenance and repairs, leading to additional costs down the line.
3. Inconsistent Aging and Wear
Due to material differences, the old roof will last sooner than the new materials, leading to inconsistent aging. Apart from the inconsistent aging, the two roof materials are more likely to experience different levels of wear and tear, which can potentially affect the roof’s overall performance.
4. Compromised Structural Integrity
A half-roof replacement isn’t a reliable solution if the underlying decking structure has been compromised by water infiltration and rot. Simply replacing the roofing material will not target the potential damage to the roofing structure. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that the structural integrity of the entire roof is thoroughly assessed and addressed during the replacement process.
5. Limited Warranty Coverage
Some roofing material manufacturers may have limitations on warranty coverage when replacing only a portion of the roof. This can impact your ability to make warranty claims in the future, mainly if issues arise with the half that was not replaced.
Advantages of a Half-Roof Replacement
Though a half-roof replacement has many risks involved, it has some advantages too. Here are some to consider.
1. Cost Savings
Compared to the cost of complete roof replacement, replacing only half the roof can be a more cost-effective solution. This is especially true if the damage or deterioration is limited to one area of the roof. Moreover, it allows you to address the problem without incurring the expense of replacing the entire roof.
2. Preservation of Existing Roofing Materials
If the existing roof has materials that are still in good condition, a half-roof replacement enables you to retain and preserve those materials. This can be beneficial if you want to maintain your property’s architectural style or visual consistency.
3. Time Efficiency
Replacing half the roof typically requires less time and effort than a complete replacement. It shortens the project timeline, allowing you to complete the necessary repairs or upgrades in an efficient manner.
Replacing Just Part of a Roof
Despite knowing the risks of a half-roof replacement, here is a step-by-step procedure to follow if you choose to go forward with a half-roof replacement. Follow the instructions pointed out below to ensure success.
1. Assessment of The Roof
For a roof replacement, regardless of the type, a professional inspection is a must to measure the extent of damage and the type of replacement needed. For an inspection, roofers will get on your roof with specific inspection tools and analyze its condition and underlying issues.
2. Planning and Preparation
The contractor will create a plan for the roof replacement, considering factors such as matching the existing roofing material, ensuring proper drainage, and maintaining structural integrity. They will select the appropriate materials, including shingles, underlayment, flashing, and any necessary accessories that match the existing roofing materials.
3. Removing The Damaged Materials
Removing the old damaged materials is a primary part of a roof replacement. The damaged section of the roof will be prepared for replacement by removing the existing roofing materials, such as shingles, underlayment, and flashing. Ensure this process is carefully done to avoid causing additional damage to the surrounding area.
5. Installing The New Roofing Materials
Installing new roofing materials is something we are here for. For a roof replacement, the contractor will install new roofing materials to cover up the underlayment and the roof deck. With proper fastening and alignment, your new roofing materials are sure to be installed successfully.
6. Clean up And Inspection
Once the roof replacement is complete, the contractor will clean up the work area and remove any debris or leftover materials. A final inspection will be conducted to ensure the replaced section is properly installed, free of defects, and meets the required standards.
Alternatives To A Half-Roof Replacement
If you’re considering the drawbacks of a half-roof replacement, the following alternative solutions can help you.
Roof Repair
For minor damage, such as a small leak or a few damaged shingles, a roof repair, rather than a replacement, is sufficient. Patching or sealing the affected area can prevent further damage without the need for a full replacement. Moreover, focusing on fixing specific problem areas, such as damaged flashing, loose shingles, or cracked tiles, can save your roof from more damage over time.
Roof Overlay
Roof overlaying is adding a layer of roofing materials over the existing ones. It can be an alternate option to a half-roof replacement, as roof overlaying can prevent the roofing materials from further damage. This process of adding layers can make the roofing materials thicker and more durable. However, before installing another layer of shingles or tiles, you must follow the local building codes, and manufacturer specifications, as not all roofs are meant to have two layers of materials.
It’s also important to consult with a professional roofing contractor to assess your specific situation and determine the most appropriate alternative to a half-roof replacement. They can provide expert advice and guide you toward the best solution based on the condition of your roof and your specific needs.
Do You Want to Replace Your Roof?
If you are considering replacing your roof after wear and tear, we recommend our roofing company, Champion Exteriors. Our team is proficient at handling all kinds of roofing projects, including roof replacements, repairs, installations, and inspections. Call us today at (609) 845-3576 for a professional consultation with one of our experts.