Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against Texas weather — hail, heavy rain, blistering heat, and the occasional hurricane-strength wind. But when shingles start curling or water spots show up on the ceiling, the big question every homeowner has is: Do I need a simple repair, or is it time for a full roof replacement?

At Welch Ladder Co., we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners answer this exact question. Here’s how you can tell the difference.

1. Check the Age of Your Roof

• Asphalt shingles: Most last 15–25 years.
• Metal roofing: Can last 40–70 years.
• Class 3 or Class 4 impact-resistant shingles: Can stretch closer to 30+ years with proper installation.

If your roof is near or past its expected lifespan, replacement is often the smarter long-term move, even if repairs could 'patch' a problem for now.

2. Look for Shingle Damage

Walk around your property and look for these signs:

• Missing shingles
• Cracked, curled, or blistered shingles
• Bald spots where granules have worn away

When to Repair: A handful of missing or damaged shingles in one area.

When to Replace: Widespread curling, cracking, or granule loss across large sections.

3. Inspect for Leaks and Water Damage

Water stains on ceilings, wet spots in the attic, or streaks down walls are all red flags.

• If it’s a small, isolated leak near a vent or flashing, a repair may do the trick.
• If leaks appear in multiple areas, or you’ve got sagging decking, that usually signals a replacement.

4. Consider Storm Damage

In Texas, hail and wind can destroy a roof in minutes. Signs of storm damage include:

• Dented or bruised shingles
• Damaged ridge caps
• Loose flashing around chimneys or skylights
• Gutters full of granules

Insurance often covers full replacements when storms cause significant damage — so don’t wait to get an inspection.

5. Energy Efficiency and Curb Appeal

Even if your roof isn’t leaking yet, sometimes replacing is the best move if:

• Your energy bills are climbing (old shingles don’t reflect heat as well).
• You’re preparing to sell your home — a new roof boosts property value and gives buyers peace of mind.

6. The Professional Opinion

At the end of the day, nothing beats a trained eye. A roofing professional can spot hidden damage and tell you honestly if repairs are enough, or if you’re better off with a new roof.

At Welch Ladder Co., we follow a simple rule:

1. If repairs can safely extend the life of your roof, we’ll recommend them.
2. If a replacement is the smarter investment, we’ll show you exactly why — with photos, inspection notes, and transparent pricing.

Final Thoughts

Your roof doesn’t just protect your house — it protects your family, your belongings, and your peace of mind. If you’re unsure whether you need repairs or a full replacement, don’t guess.

Call Welch Ladder Co. today for a free inspection. We’ll climb up, take a look, and give you an honest assessment — because when it comes to your roof, 'good enough' is never good enough.

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