Damage Around the House: Repair or Replace?

It is an unpleasant fact of life that from time to time, something around your home will be damaged. Sometimes, it is easy to work out what you should do.  For instance, when a windowpane is broken, you need to replace it.  What about less obvious damage though?  We look at how you can analyze whether damage should be repaired or replaced, and how to get started.

Cost Is a Factor

Sometimes, the cost to repair a certain type of damage will be almost as much as it would be to replace the same item.  In that case, it makes sense to replace the damaged item instead of repairing it.  Your homeowner’s insurance will also be a factor.  Sometimes, when damage is covered, the deductible will become a factor too.  It makes more sense to have damaged items replaced if you are already paying a hefty deductible.

Check Warranties

If you have recently purchased a new home, or you have recently replaced something (like your roof) and something goes wrong, you may be eligible to claim under a manufacturer’s warranty.  Usually, these will not cover accidental damage, but if something has actually malfunctioned or not performed as promised, you may be covered.

Underlying Damage

In certain cases, there may be underlying damage that needs to be repaired, which will make replacement a requirement.  For instance, if you have water damage to a floor or wall, you may be able to repair it, but since the water may have reached the insulation or structure, and may be causing mold, you will need to remove the damaged materials, remediate the underlying elements, and then replace them.

Examples of Damage That Can Be Repaired

If you are still wondering whether you can repair rather than replace, then here is a list of items that you can safely repair when something goes wrong:

• Repair shingle roofs by replacing missing shingles (as long as the rest of the roof is in good shape!)
• Repair chipped enamel on bathtubs.
• Repair damaged floors by refinishing if scratched, or by replacing a tile or floorboard for more severe damage.
• Repair scratched or damaged cabinet doors by sanding and restaining or painting, and replace damaged hinges and hardware.
• Repair damage to a wooden fence by replacing single boards if they are missing or damaged. If the whole fence is in bad shape, however, it is best to replace it.
• Repair cracks in concrete walkways, unless the concrete is crumbling, which may indicate age or poor quality, or the walkway is heaving, which may require better bedding and preparation.

Reasons to Repair or Replace

Whether you repair or replace damaged items in your home, there are good reasons to keep up with home repairs and maintenance. They tend to be cumulative, and what may be a minor problem today could become an expensive headache over time.  Damage can also have a significant impact on the value of your home if you decide to sell.

The best way to decide whether to replace or repair damage if you are not sure is to call a professional and get an estimate for both options. Get a few different quotes from different companies, and then compare prices and options before deciding.