Roof Replacement or Repair?
How to Plan Smart Before Spring Demand Surges
February in Michigan can be deceptive. Temperatures are rising, but snow is still on the ground. Roofing probably isn’t top of mind.
But behind the scenes? Spring schedules are already filling.
If you’ve noticed stains on ceilings, missing shingles, or your roof is approaching 15–25 years old, this is the smartest time of year to ask a critical question:
Do we repair – or is it time to replace?
Making that decision before spring demand surges can save you money, stress, and limited scheduling options
Step 1: Start with the Age of Your Roof
Most asphalt shingle roofing systems in Michigan last between 18 and 25 years, depending on:
● Ventilation quality
● Installation standards
● Storm exposure
● Ice dam history
● Material grade
If your roof is nearing the 20-year mark, repairs may only buy short-term time. A professional inspection can determine whether the decking, flashing, and ventilation system are still structurally sound.
Rule of thumb: If multiple areas are failing, replacement is usually more cost-effective than stacking repairs.
Step 2: Evaluate the Type of Damage
Not all roof damage means full replacement.
Repair May Be Appropriate If:
- ● Damage is isolated to one section
- ● Shingles were lifted in a recent wind event
- ● Flashing needs resealing
- ● There is minor granule loss
- ● The roof is under 12–15 years old
Replacement May Be Smarter If:
- ● Shingles are brittle or curling
- ● Multiple leak points exist
- ● Decking feels soft or compromised
- ● Ventilation is inadequate
- ● Prior repairs have been repeated
Temporary patches often become recurring problems. Planning strategically prevents emergency calls later.
Step 3: Understand What Spring Does to the Market
Once March and April storms hit Metro Detroit, demand spikes fast. What that means for homeowners:
- ● Longer wait times
- ● Limited installation windows
- ● Insurance claim backlogs
- ● Higher stress decision-making
- ● Less flexibility in scheduling
Contractors begin booking spring projects weeks – sometimes months – in advance. Planning in late winter allows you to:
- ● Secure preferred dates
- ● Order materials early
- ● Avoid storm-season urgency
- ● Make clear-headed financial decisions
Step 4: Consider Energy Efficiency & Ventilation
Many homeowners focus only on shingles – but roofing is a full system.
Proper ventilation:
- ● Reduces attic heat in summer
- ● Prevents ice dams in winter
- ● Extends shingle lifespan
- ● Lowers AC strain
If your roof is aging, it may not just be about leaks – it may be affecting your year-round energy performance. A full-system evaluation ensures you’re not replacing materials without correcting underlying issues.
Step 5: Budgeting Smart Before Peak Season
February and early March are ideal for:
- ● Reviewing financing options
- ● Comparing material upgrades
- ● Evaluating warranty differences
- ● Planning around life events
Waiting until a storm forces your decision removes negotiation power and increases emotional stress. Smart homeowners plan before they’re pressured.
The Cost of Waiting
Minor issues rarely stay minor in Michigan’s climate.
Freeze-thaw cycles expand small cracks. Spring rain tests weak flashing. Heavy summer storms exploit lifted shingles.
A $600 repair can turn into structural damage if ignored long enough. The goal isn’t to overspend. The goal is to prevent avoidable major expenses.
The Bottom Line: Repair or Replace?
The only way to know with confidence is a professional inspection.
An honest exterior evaluation should clearly outline:
- ● What is functioning properly
- ● What needs monitoring
- ● What requires repair
- ● Whether replacement is financially smarter long-term
No pressure. Just clarity.
Plan Now. Avoid the Spring Rush.
If your roof has been on your mind – even slightly – now is the time to act. By the time neighbors are calling after the first spring storm, the schedule will already be tight.
Be ahead of it.
Schedule your pre-spring roof inspection at www.hxmich.com and make the repair vs. replacement decision before demand surges later in the season.