You climb down from the ladder after a windstorm holding two cracked shingles, wondering if you're looking at a $400 repair or a $12,000 replacement. It's one of the most common — and most expensive — decisions a homeowner faces, and the right answer depends on more than the damage you can see.
Start with the roof's age
Material lifespan is the first filter. Asphalt shingles typically last 15–30 years; architectural shingles and metal roofs last longer. If your roof is within a few years of the end of its expected life, repeated repairs rarely pay off — you're patching a system that's failing everywhere at once.
Weigh the extent of the damage
A useful rule of thumb: if damage affects less than about 30% of the roof and the deck underneath is sound, a repair is usually the better value. Beyond that — or if you find sagging, widespread granule loss, or daylight in the attic — replacement is often cheaper per year of service.
Storm damage is its own category
After severe weather, document everything before you touch it: your insurer may cover storm damage. The National Weather Service publishes local storm history at weather.gov, which helps establish when hail or high winds hit your area. Keep an emergency plan handy via Ready.gov for regions prone to severe storms.
Get it inspected before you decide
Most homeowners can't safely assess a roof from the ground. Compare vetted roofing companies and get a written inspection, or browse the top-rated roofers for free quotes. While a crew is up there, ask about your gutters and siding too — storm damage rarely stops at the roofline. And compare at least three bids using our guide to reading contractor quotes.