Roof Restoration vs Roof Replacement
Roof Restoration vs Roof Replacement
Restoring your roof is a cheaper alternative to a roof replacement that can provide similar like-new results and long-lasting protection. While most roofs can be completely restored, some damage may warrant a roof replacement. When considering a roof restoration vs roof replacement, here’s what to look out for.
What is roof restoration?
A roof restoration is the complete transformation of your roof to extend its lifespan and give your home a fresh new look. A roof restoration is an end-to-end process that includes repairing and replacing any broken or missing tiles or metal, cleaning, priming & sealing, and coating your roof with a specially formulated protective roof membrane and new paint colour, providing a total roof makeover.
What is a roof replacement?
A roof replacement is a larger and more expensive project than a roof restoration, involving the complete removal of an existing roof, replacement of battens, new framing if required to support your roof, and the installation of a brand-new metal or tiled roofing system.
What are the pros and cons of a roof restoration vs a roof replacement?
Both a roof restoration and a roof replacement will provide protection against the elements and give your home a fresh new look. A roof replacement is a larger and more costly job than a roof restoration as it requires your old roof to be removed and a new one to be installed in its place. Here are some of the pros and cons of a roof restoration vs a roof replacement:
- Restoring your roof is less disruptive than a roof replacement: A roof restoration is a simpler job that will cause minimal disruption to your day-to-day life and give you a completely revitalised, like-new roof. By comparison, a roof replacement may require you to make adjustments during completion of works. Your roof will be totally removed which could mean your home is uninhabitable for short period of time or there may be safety requirements you need to adhere to during installation.
- A standard roof restoration is a time-saving and efficient option: A roof replacement is a larger project that may require your roof plans to be submitted to council for approval prior to installation if you are changing your roof material or other variables, adding time and cost to the process. When the roof requires standard repairs a roof restoration is the alternative option as a full replacement may not be required. Always contact your local council to determine and planning requirements.
- A roof restoration is a more sustainable option than a roof replacement: Instead of your roof being removed and going to landfill, a roof restoration will revitalise your existing roof through a process of repairing, cleaning, priming and coating with a protective roof membrane.
- Restoring your roof will give you the appearance of a like-new roof: Both a roof restoration and roof replacement will transform the appearance of your home. A roof restoration will return your roof to its original condition, complete with a glossy finish and the fresh paint colour of your choice, without the price tag of a roof replacement.
- Both a roof restoration and a roof replacement will provide you long-lasting protection: Like a roof replacement, a roof restoration will protect your home for longer. The application of a high-build durable roof membrane coating, such as Dulux Acratex Roof Membrane will ensure your roof looks great for longer with a 15 year material warranty.
What’s the best option for me?
There’s a range of reasons you might be thinking about a roof restoration vs a roof replacement and there’s no one size fits all solution. When weighing up your options, here’s what to consider:
- Most damaged roofs can be restored: Most roof damage can be completely resolved through a roof restoration without the need for a roof replacement, however the type of damage and number of repairs needed will determine if you can restore your roof vs if you need to replace it. If your roof is entirely structurally unsound, very badly rusted or so damaged that it can’t be repaired, a roof replacement may be required. It’s a good idea to have a professional come out and inspect your roof as they’ll be able to provide a thorough assessment and help you decide what’s the best option for protecting your home.
- If you have a very old roof, it may need replacing vs restoring: The majority of roofs can be restored and returned to like-new condition through the process of roof restoration. Very old roofs that are more than 50 years old and haven’t been previously restored or are showing signs of severe damage, may require replacing. When in doubt, a roofing professional will be able to inspect your roof’s age and condition and advise you on the best course of action.
- Both a roof restoration and replacement will transform the look of your home: Refreshing the appearance of your home or updating the colour of your roof can be achieved with a roof restoration at a lower cost than a roof replacement. Give your home an instant makeover with the choice of more than 1,000 roof colours from the Colorbond® or Dulux colour ranges to complement the rest of your home.
- A roof restoration can help appeal to buyers if you’re selling your home: Restoring your roof can help present your home in the best possible condition to prospective buyers and ensure your roof’s condition is sound before an independent building report is undertaken by a third party.
