The first concern most homeowners have when they hear the news about needing a new roof is the cost. Honestly, that’s an understandable concern when you consider the cost of a roof replacement.
Unfortunately, some homeowners try to find ways to cut the cost down that is detrimental to their roof, home, and even their wallets. One of these ways is by getting a half or partial roof replacement.
But is it even possible to replace half your roof? Is it a good idea?
At Bill Ragan Roofing we do everything to educate homeowners like you to make the best decision for their specific situation. That’s why we’re going to break it down for you.
By the end of this article, you’ll learn if you can replace half your roof and the 4 reasons that’s probably not the best idea.
Can you replace half a roof?
Yes, you can replace half your roof. But the real question is, is it a good idea?
I understand everyone is on a budget, and trying to save money by replacing half your roof might seem like a good idea. However, I never recommend (or will do) a partial roof replacement.
If a roofing contractor is willing to do this for you, they probably aren’t the most reputable around. Even if you have a storm damage claim where the insurance company is only willing to pay for half a replacement, a reputable roofing contractor will give you the tools needed to fight and supplement your claim to get a full roof replacement.
Can you replace shingles in an area that’s leaking? Yes, absolutely. But if you’re trying to replace a full section or more of your roof, you’re throwing your money away.
4 reasons why you shouldn’t replace half your roof
Now you know that it’s not recommended to replace half your roof. But you’re probably thinking, “You’re a roofing contractor that just wants to sell me a full roof.”
But the reality is, there are good reasons why a reputable roofing contractor doesn’t recommend replacing half your roof.
1. The two sides of your roof will have different lifespans
The lifespan of your roof is how many years you get out of your roof investment. When you replace half your roof, you’re going to have shingles that are aging at different rates.
This means that the older side is going to fail and start leaking sooner than the newer side. This cycle will continue over and over again until you finally replace your roof.
I guarantee doing this will cause you headaches, and you’ll never have the peace of mind that comes with a new, properly installed roof.
2. Replacing half your roof will end up costing more in the long run
Because the two sides of your roof have different lifespans, you’re going to have to pay for repairs more often than you would for a full roof replacement. But you also have to think about how much you’re really paying for a partial roof replacement.
Each time you replace half your roof, you’re paying for materials, labor, time, the contractor’s overhead, and more. Depending on the size of your roof, you’re going to end up paying more in the long run per square foot than you would for a full replacement.
You might think replacing half your roof saves you money, but in reality, it’ll cost you more. Even if you’re on a tight budget, there are options available to ensure this doesn’t happen to you.
3. You won’t get the warranty protection that comes with a full roof replacement
You’ll have two warranties when you get a new roof, one on the roofing materials and the other on your roofing contractor’s workmanship. When replacing half your roof, you don’t get the warranty protection you’re expecting after investing in a replacement.
Your shingles come out of the package with a prorated warranty. However, you won’t be eligible for the 50-year non-prorated warranty that most shingle manufacturers offer when getting a full roof system.
Even if you already have the enhanced warranty on your current roof, replacing half of it will actually void the warranty. Remember, a reputable roofing contractor won’t recommend (or even do) a partial roof replacement.
If you find a roofing contractor who will do it, I can guarantee they’re not going to stand behind their work with a decent workmanship warranty. Why would they offer to protect something they know is going to have continuous problems down the road?
And the two sides of your roof will actually be covered by two different roofing contractors, so you’ll have to fight to get one or the other to fix the problems. Either way, your roof won’t be protected the way it should when getting a full roof replacement.
4. Replacing half your roof just doesn’t look good
Your roof is one of the first things people notice when driving by, walking down the street, or coming over to visit. While the styles of shingles have to match, you’ll be able to tell the difference between the two sides.
Just like if you get a roof patch, the older shingles will be lighter than the new shingles. This gives your roof a weird look that definitely stands out, and not in the best way.
You might not think this is a big deal, and for some people, the look of their roof doesn’t matter. But every day when you get home, you’re going to notice it.
The risks of getting a “cheap” a roof replacement
You now know 4 reasons why you shouldn’t replace half your roof. Remember, you can do it if you want to, but a reputable roofing contractor will never recommend it.
I understand you and other homeowners are concerned about the price of their new roof. Even if you’re on a tight budget, there are ways to get a quality roof without breaking the bank.
But some homeowners still try to get the lowest priced roof replacement possible. Unfortunately, there are risks involved that will leave your roof worse off than it was before.
We want to help you avoid that happening. That’s why we wrote another article explaining the 4 risks that come with trying to get the cheapest roof replacement in your area.
Since 1990, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has helped homeowners in the Nashville area get a great roof that fits their budget. Even if our prices are too high for you, we can at least point you in the right direction. After all, our main job is to educate every homeowner so they can make the right decisions.
Check out 4 Risks of Trying to Find the Cheapest Price for Your Roof Replacement to avoid being taken advantage of so you can protect your roof investment.
