It’s one of the most common questions we hear at Holthaus Roofing: “Do I really need to replace my roof, or can I just repair it?”
And honestly? It depends.
If you’re starting to notice leaks, missing shingles, or other signs of wear, it can be tough to tell whether you’re looking at a small fix—or something more serious. But don’t worry, we’re here to help make that decision easier. Whether your roof is made of shingles, metal, slate, Durolast, stone-coated steel, or GAF TPO, here’s how to figure out what your roof is trying to tell you.
First Things First: Get an Inspection
Before you can make an informed decision, it’s important to know what’s really going on up there. A quick visual from the ground is a good start, but a professional inspection will tell you what’s happening beneath the surface.
Some common red flags include:
- Cracked, curling, or missing shingles
- Soft spots or areas that feel spongy underfoot
- Water stains on your ceiling or walls
- Mold or musty smells in the attic
- Granules building up in your gutters
- Signs of rust, punctures, or open seams in metal or flat roofs
If any of those sound familiar, it’s time to take a closer look.
When a Roof Repair Might Be Enough
In many cases, especially if the damage is minor or isolated, a repair can be a cost-effective solution. If your roof is still fairly young and the issue is limited to one area, you might not need a full replacement.
Repairs could be the right choice if:
- The damage is small and localized
- Your roof is still within its expected lifespan
- The underlying structure is still in good shape
- You haven’t had recurring issues in the same area
Quick repairs now can extend your roof’s life and save you money—especially if you catch problems early.
When It’s Time to Replace the Whole Roof
There are some cases where repairs just won’t cut it. If the damage is widespread, your roof is getting old, or you’ve already sunk money into multiple fixes, replacing the roof may be the smarter, more economical option long-term.
It might be time to replace your roof if:
- You’ve had multiple leaks in different areas
- The shingles or panels are worn out across the entire roof
- You’re seeing sagging or signs of structural damage
- Your roof is nearing (or past) the end of its life
- You want to upgrade to a more durable or energy-efficient system
Think of it this way: putting off a needed replacement could mean more damage down the road—not just to your roof, but to your home’s interior as well.
How Long Should a Roof Last?
Every roofing material has its own lifespan, especially when properly installed and maintained. Here’s a general idea of how long you can expect your roof to last:
- Asphalt shingles: 20–30 years
- Metal roofing: 40–70 years
- Slate: 75–100 years
- Stone-coated steel: 40–50 years
- Durolast & GAF TPO: 20–30 years (great for flat or low-slope roofs)
If your roof is getting close to the end of its lifespan, it’s smart to start planning ahead—even if everything looks okay for now.
Still Not Sure? That’s What We’re Here For.
Sometimes the signs are obvious, and sometimes they’re subtle. Either way, you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Holthaus Roofing, we’ll give your roof a full inspection and walk you through exactly what we find—no pressure, just honest advice.
Whether it’s a simple repair or a full replacement, we’ll help you make the right call for your home, your budget, and your peace of mind.
Schedule Your Roof Inspection Today
If you’ve been wondering about the state of your roof, don’t wait until the next storm rolls through. Contact us and let us take a look. We serve homeowners and businesses throughout Illinois, and we’re here to make roofing decisions a whole lot easier.