If you’ve lived in the Midwest for any length of time, you know what the weather can do to a roof—hail in the spring, strong winds in the fall, snow and ice in the winter. In Indianapolis and surrounding areas, it’s not a matter of if your roof will take a hit. It’s when.
So, when you notice shingles curling, a leak in the attic, or damage after a storm, the question comes up:
“Should I repair this, or is it time to replace the whole roof?”
We’ve helped thousands of homeowners answer that exact question—honestly, without the sales pitch. And while every home is different, there are some clear signs that can point you in the right direction.
In this post, we’ll walk you through:
- The key differences between roof repair and roof replacement
- What makes sense based on roof age, material, and damage
- Local factors that matter in Indiana (like weather, code, and costs)
- What to expect from both processes
- How permanent roofing systems can prevent this decision from coming up again
Need a clear, expert opinion on your home? Schedule a free inspection with our team at Cornett Roofing Systems.
Why It’s Important to Get This Decision Right
We understand how tempting it can be to choose the cheaper, faster fix. But in our 30+ years of roofing in Indiana, we’ve seen too many folks throw money at repeated repairs when a replacement would’ve saved them thousands in the long run.
First, Let’s Define the Two Options:
- Roof Repair means addressing a specific issue—replacing damaged shingles, sealing a leak, or fixing flashing around a vent. It’s a patch, not a system overhaul.
- Roof Replacement is a complete tear-off and installation of a new roofing system, including all materials from underlayment to ridge cap.
Why It Matters More Here
In Indianapolis, roofs take a beating. Between hail, heavy winds, and temperature swings, minor issues can quickly turn into serious problems. We’ve seen roofs that looked fine from the ground but had hidden damage from past storms or aging materials.
Repairs can buy time, but if the system is near the end of its lifespan—or if damage is widespread—replacement protects your home and wallet better over time.
What You Should Know Before Deciding
A quick repair may sound appealing. But before calling a roof repair company or searching for estimates, there are a few things every homeowner should take into account:
1. How Old Is Your Roof?
This matters more than people realize.
- Asphalt shingle roofs usually last 15–20 years
- Metal, tile, and slate systems can last 50–100+ years with proper installation and maintenance
If your roof is nearing the end of its life, it’s often smarter to replace it than to patch it again.
2. What’s the Extent of the Damage?
Repairs are suitable for:
- A few missing or lifted shingles
- One isolated leak
- Small flashing or vent issues
But if you’re dealing with:
- Sagging spots
- Leaks in multiple areas
- Granule loss across large sections
- Soft decking under the surface
… then a full roof replacement may be the safer—and more cost-effective—choice.
3. Budget and Timeline
In Indiana:
- Roof repairs usually range from $300–$1,500
- Replacements run anywhere from $10,000–$25,000+, depending on materials and home size
At Cornett Roofing, we offer financing options to help homeowners invest in long-term solutions, not just short-term fixes.
4. Roof Material Matters
If you’re tired of replacing asphalt every 15–20 years, it might be time to look at permanent roofing options. We manufacture and install our own metal slate and tile roofing systems—built to outlast weather and time.
5. Local Building Codes
In Indianapolis and many nearby towns, code often requires a full tear-off before a new roof can be installed—especially if the roof already has one layer of shingles. Some repairs may not need a permit, but a replacement almost always will.
Roof Repair vs Roof Replacement: Which One Makes Sense?
Let’s take a look at both sides.
When Roof Repair Is Enough
Choose repair if:
- Your roof is under 10 years old
- The damage is minor and easy to access
- You haven’t had frequent issues in the same area
- You plan to move in a few years
Repairs can often extend a roof’s life by a few years—if the system underneath is still sound.
When Roof Replacement Is the Smarter Investment
Go with replacement if:
- Your roof is over 15 years old (especially if it’s asphalt)
- You’ve had multiple repairs in recent years
- The damage is widespread or affects the structure
- You want to invest in longer-lasting materials
Replacing your roof isn’t just about fixing today’s issue—it’s about preventing tomorrow’s.
Quick Comparison: Repair vs. Replacement
| Factor | Roof Repair | Roof Replacement |
| Cost | $300–$1,500 | $10,000–$25,000+ |
| Time to Complete | 1–2 days | 5–10 business days |
| Expected Lifespan | Adds 1–5 years | 20–50+ years (material dependent) |
| Warranty | Limited or none | Up to 50 years (manufacturer), 10 years (workmanship) |
| Best Fit | Isolated issues | Aging or compromised roof systems |
The Long-Term View: Materials, Durability & Warranties
This is where the conversation often shifts from “what’s cheaper today” to “what saves money long-term.”
Material Makes a Big Difference
- Asphalt shingles: Low upfront cost, but short life.
- Metal roofing: Hail- and wind-resistant, with lifespans of 50+ years.
- Synthetic slate/tile: High-end appearance and built for extreme conditions.
We install and manufacture our own metal slate and tile products because we believe homeowners deserve roofing systems that last—and perform—in Midwest weather.
Risk of Repeated Repairs
Putting off a necessary replacement can lead to:
- Interior water damage
- Mold in the attic or walls
- Damaged insulation and framing
- More expensive future repairs
- Reduced home value
In most of these cases, what started as a $1,000 repair ends up costing five times more when problems spread beneath the surface.
Warranties That Actually Mean Something
With a roof replacement from Cornett Roofing Systems, you get:
- Up to 50-year product warranties (depending on material)
- 1–10 year workmanship warranties
- A permanent system, not a temporary patch
Common Roof Repair and Replacement Questions from Indianapolis Homeowners
Choosing between roof repair and replacement can leave homeowners with more questions than answers—especially when you’re trying to make a smart, long-term decision. Here are some of the most common questions we hear from property owners across Indianapolis and the Midwest, along with straightforward answers to help you feel more confident.
How do I know if my roof needs a repair or full replacement?
You can determine if you need a roof repair or replacement by looking at the age and condition of your roof. If the damage is isolated and your roof is under 15 years old, a repair is usually fine. But if problems keep showing up or your roof is near the end of its lifespan, a full replacement is likely the better investment.
What’s the average roof replacement cost in Indianapolis?
The average roof replacement cost in Indianapolis ranges from $10,000 to $20,000. This depends on the size of your home, the roofing material you choose, and whether any structural issues need to be addressed during installation.
Can I just replace part of my roof instead of the whole thing?
Yes, partial roof replacement is possible, but replacing part of a roof isn’t always the best option. It can lead to mismatched materials, may not meet warranty standards, and can be more expensive in the long run if additional issues develop.
How long does a full roof replacement take?
A roof replacement typically takes 5 to 10 business days from start to finish. The exact timeline depends on the weather, roof complexity, and materials used.
Do you offer drone inspections for roof evaluations?
Yes, we provide drone inspections to accurately assess roof damage. Drone technology helps us spot issues that aren’t visible from the ground and ensures a safer, more thorough evaluation—especially after storms.
Can roofing work be done during the winter?
Yes, roof work can be done in the winter as long as the materials are cold-weather rated. At Cornett Roofing, we install roofs year-round across Indiana, and we plan each project around weather windows to ensure quality.
Will Cornett Roofing help with my insurance claim?
No, Cornett Roofing Systems does not handle insurance claims directly. However, we will provide all necessary documentation, photos, and inspection details to support your claim process with your insurance company.
Final Thoughts: Make the Right Choice for Your Home’s Future
Deciding between roof repair and roof replacement isn’t about pressure or fear—it’s about clarity. What will actually protect your home, your investment, and your peace of mind?
At Cornett Roofing Systems, we believe in giving homeowners the full picture. We’re not here to sell what you don’t need. We’re here to help you understand your options and make the decision that’s best for you—with permanent solutions whenever possible.
With over three decades of experience, our team installs high-performance metal, slate, and tile roofing systems made to last in the Midwest. No guesswork. No short-term fixes.
Schedule your free roof inspection today—and let’s find out what your home really needs.
