Roofing guide

Repair or replace? How to decide

By the Ortiz Roofing team · Updated 2026-11-10

Quick answer: Repair when the roof is younger than about two-thirds of its expected life and the damage is in one spot. Replace when it's old, leaking in several places, or you'd be paying for repair after repair.

Age matters most

A ten-year-old shingle roof with one leak is a repair. One that's 15 years or older with three leaks is a replacement.

How spread out is the damage?

One area is usually fixable. Problems all over the roof aren't.

What are your plans for the house?

Selling soon? Buyers and insurers look hard at roof age. Staying long term? A new roof starts the clock over.

  • Selling in 1-2 years
  • Staying 10+ years
  • Insurance renewal coming up

Get it in writing

Ask for a written recommendation either way.

FAQ

Is repairing an old roof a waste of money?

Not always. A small repair can buy you time to plan. Just know it's a bridge, not a fix.

Can you quote both options?

Yes. We're happy to price a repair and a replacement side by side.

What is the Florida 25% rule?

It's a code rule about how much of a roof can be repaired before the whole roof must meet current code. It changed in 2022 for newer roofs. Call (386) 313-6055 and we'll explain how it applies to yours.

Want someone to just look at it?

Free estimates across Flagler, Volusia, St. Johns, Clay, Putnam and Greater Orlando.

Get a free estimate Call (386) 313-6055
Written and reviewed by the Ortiz Roofing team · Licensed CCC1334839 · Last updated

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