If your commercial roof is leaking, showing signs of wear, or just not performing like it used to, one question probably comes to mind:
“Should I repair it—or is it time to replace the whole thing?”
It’s a fair question, and it’s one we hear a lot at The Duerson Corporation. The truth is, the right answer depends on a few key factors: how old your roof is, how much damage there is, and what kind of shape the rest of your building is in.
Here’s how to weigh your options and make the best decision for your building, your budget, and your peace of mind.
When a Roof Repair Makes Sense
Not every roofing issue calls for a full replacement. In fact, there are plenty of situations where a repair is the smarter, more cost-effective route. Here are a few examples:
- The damage is minor and contained.
If you’re dealing with a small leak, a loose seam, or an isolated area of wear and tear, a targeted repair can often solve the problem without too much disruption. - Your roof isn’t very old.
Most commercial roofs are built to last 20–30 years. If yours is still relatively new and has been regularly maintained, it probably has plenty of life left—and a repair may be all you need. - You haven’t had repeat issues.
A one-time leak or storm-related issue? No big deal. But if you find yourself patching the same problem area over and over, that’s a sign it’s time to look at the bigger picture. - The underlying structure is still in good shape.
Repairs make sense when the roofing membrane is the only thing compromised. But if moisture has gotten into the insulation or deck, that’s a different story.
When It’s Time to Replace Your Roof
On the flip side, there are times when repairs just aren’t enough—and continuing to patch up an aging roof becomes more expensive than replacing it. Here’s when a replacement is usually the better move:
- Your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.
If your roof is 20+ years old (depending on the material), it might be time to stop investing in repairs and start thinking about a new system that will serve you for decades to come. - There’s widespread damage.
If leaks, cracks, or membrane issues are showing up in multiple areas, chances are the whole system is deteriorating—not just one section. - You’ve been making frequent repairs.
If you’re calling a roofer more than once or twice a year, those repair bills can add up fast. A replacement might cost more upfront, but it can save you money (and headaches) long-term. - You want better energy efficiency.
Older roofing systems typically don’t insulate as well or reflect sunlight like modern systems do. Upgrading to something like Duro-Last can help keep your building cooler and your energy bills lower.
What About a Roof Overlay?
In some cases, you may not need to tear everything off. A roof overlay—where we install a new membrane over your existing one—can be a cost-effective option if the current roof is in decent shape structurally.
It’s not always possible, though, especially if the old roof is water-damaged or already has multiple layers. We’ll let you know what’s feasible during your inspection.
Our Approach: No Guesswork, Just Honest Advice
At The Duerson Corporation, we start with a thorough roof inspection so we can give you real answers—not guesses. We’ll assess your roof’s current condition, talk through your goals, and lay out the options clearly.
Sometimes a repair is all you need. Sometimes a replacement makes more sense. Either way, we’ll help you make an informed decision with zero pressure.
Let’s Take a Look at Your Roof
If you’re not sure whether to repair or replace your commercial roof, let us take a look. We’ll walk the roof, identify any issues, and give you straightforward guidance on what to do next.
Contact The Duerson Corporation today to schedule a roof inspection and get the answers you need—without the guesswork.