If your roof is aging or showing signs of wear, you may wonder whether a simple repair will do—or if it’s time to consider an overlay. As an experienced roofing contractor in Virginia Beach, WT Anderson helps homeowners weigh their options every day. In this post, we’ll explain what roof overlays are, how they differ from repairs, and when each choice makes the most sense.

What is a roof repair?

A roof repair addresses specific issues, such as missing shingles, leaks, or localized damage. It’s often the go-to solution for newer roofs or problems affecting only a small area.

Pros of roof repair:

• Lower upfront cost
• Faster turnaround time
• Ideal for minor or isolated damage

Cons of roof repair:

• Not suitable for widespread aging or structural issues
• Temporary if underlying problems are missed

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What is a roof overlay?

A roof overlay involves installing new shingles directly over your existing roof without tearing off the old materials. It’s sometimes chosen as a less expensive alternative to a full replacement.

Pros of a roof overlay:

• Lower cost than full replacement
• Faster and less labor-intensive
• Adds an extra layer of protection temporarily

Cons of a roof overlay:

• Can conceal hidden damage underneath
• May void manufacturer warranties
• Can add weight and stress to roof structure
• Not suitable for all roofing types or conditions

When to choose one over the other

Choose repair if:

• The roof is under 15 years old
• Damage is limited to a small area
• There are no signs of structural weakness or widespread issues

Consider overlay if:

• The roof is nearing the end of its life but not yet leaking
• You want a short-term budget solution
• A full replacement isn’t financially feasible right now

What does each option cost?

• Roof repair in Virginia Beach typically ranges from $300–$1,000 depending on the extent of the damage.
• Roof overlay costs typically range from $5,000–$8,000, which is about 25–30% less than a full roof replacement.

Keep in mind: overlaying isn’t always code-compliant if your home already has two roofing layers. It’s also less likely to qualify for long-term warranties.

Contact us to discuss your best option

Sources:

• Owens Corning: Roof Overlay vs. Tear-Off
• HomeAdvisor: Roof Repair and Overlay Costs

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