Roof Restoration vs. Roof Replacement: What’s the Difference?

If you’re unsure whether you need a roof restoration or a complete replacement, taking the next steps can feel nearly impossible.  Let’s break down the differences between restoration and replacement so you can make an informed decision based on your timeline, budget, and your roofing system’s specific needs and conditions.

Roof Restoration vs. Roof Replacement 

Roof restoration and replacement are two distinct processes that address your home or commercial space’s roof:

A roof replacement removes the existing roof system and installs a new one.  This often includes replacing the underlying materials, such as sheathing and insulation, to ensure a water-tight and durable roofing system.  We recommend roof replacements when the system is severely damaged, aged, has water inside of it, or beyond repair.

A roof restoration preserves and extends the roof’s lifespan without a complete teardown.  It involves repairing and refurbishing the roof’s surface by fixing leaks, replacing damaged shingles or tiles, or applying protective coatings to extend the service life.  It’s good for roofs with minor damage and normal wear and tear, providing a sustainable option that balances performance and budget considerations. 

Benefits of a Roof Restoration

It’s more affordable.  Roof restoration is a cost-effective option, especially when the underlying system is still in good condition, addressing specific issues rather than overhauling the entire roof.

It’s more sustainable.  A restoration can often repurpose existing parts of your roof.  Extending the roof’s lifespan reduces the demand for new resources and minimizes the environmental impact of manufacturing and installing entirely new roofing systems.

You want to improve your building’s energy efficiency.  Some roof restoration methods involve reflective coatings or cool materials.  This can improve energy efficiency by reducing heat absorption and cooling costs—a good idea here in Arizona.

Benefits of a Roof Replacement

You want longevity.  While a restoration may extend the life of your roof by perhaps 15 years, a total replacement could last 20-25 years. 

You want a new type of roof.  You may want to swap your existing roof system for a different type of system (ie from shingle to metal, or cap sheet to foam). In that case, it might be worth going for the complete replacement, especially if you intend to continue to own the property for an extended period. 

Your roof isn’t up to code.  If your current roof doesn’t meet updated building codes or if you’re renovating, you might need to invest in a roof replacement to ensure compliance with current regulations and standards.

Is Roof Restoration Better Than Roof Replacement? 

This choice comes down to your particular roof, including how old it is and its current condition.  If your roof continues to be serviceable, you can likely opt for a restoration instead of a replacement.  Conversely, if the roof system is compromised or severely degraded or damaged, you may need to invest in a replacement. 

The suitability of roof restoration depends on the specific condition of your roof.  An inspection by a qualified roofing professional helps assess the extent of any damage and determine whether restoration is a viable option for your particular situation.  As always, early intervention and proactive maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your roof! 

SUNVEK is Your Arizona Roofing Company 

Still not sure which option is right for you?  That’s okay—our professional roofers can inspect your roof, providing straightforward recommendations based on our decades of experience.  We aim to make the process easy so you can immediately take action.