Repair, Don’t Replace

A Smarter, Greener Way to Extend the Life of Your Roof

Every year, millions of tons of roofing waste end up in landfills across the United States. According to EPA estimates, roofing waste contributes to over 11 million tons of construction debris annually, much of it from full roof replacements that could have been avoided. At Lanco we understand that there are many valid reasons why you would need to fully replace a roof, but with our many years of experience on the field we have seen instances where a proper repair and sealing of a roof can add up to 15 more years.

In this blog we want to explore the different scenarios that might appear on your roof where repairing is a better and more cost-effective option than replacing. 

The Environmental Cost of Roof Replacement

Before diving into the smart alternatives to full roof replacement, it’s important to understand the hidden ecological toll that comes with tearing off and replacing an entire roofing system, especially when it could’ve been repaired or extended using modern coatings. When a roof is removed, what actually happens to that waste? The answer is discouraging: the majority of roofing waste goes straight to landfills. Asphalt shingles, tar paper, underlayment, old insulation, and flashings are rarely recyclable, and they make up a significant portion of the 11 to 13 million tons of construction debris generated annually in the U.S., according to EPA estimates.

• Shingles alone can take up to 300 years to fully decompose, leaching petrochemicals into the soil.

• Discarded materials are typically bulk-loaded into dumpsters and trucked to landfills.

This is waste that could be completely avoided, or at least drastically reduced, by opting to repair and recoat the existing roof. Also, older roofing systems may contain tar, bitumen, adhesives, and sealants that are petroleum-based or chemically treated. During tear-off, these substances can:

• Be released as airborne particulates

• Contaminate the surrounding soil or water runoff during demolition

• Pose a health hazard to workers and nearby residents

Even when handled properly, the act of removing an aged roof can reintroduce toxic materials into the environment.

When should I repair my roof?

The first and most important step is a PROPER ROOF INSPECTION! Many different issues can be present on a roof that needs repairing. Properly determining those issues will give you a clear overview of the next step. Here are some common problems that can be fixed with proper roof repair:

Cracks and Splits in the Roof Surface

Over time, exposure to UV rays and fluctuating temperatures can cause roofing membranes to crack or split. These small openings let in moisture and eventually lead to leaks, but they can often be sealed with an elastomeric or silicone coating that restores flexibility and waterproofing.

Ponding or Standing Water

Flat roofs commonly experience drainage issues that cause water to collect in certain areas. While long-term ponding can damage roofing material, coatings designed for ponding resistance can seal and protect those areas, extending roof life and improving drainage when combined with minor slope corrections.

Minor Leaks and Water Intrusion

Leaks are often caused by small punctures, loose flashing, or seam failures, not structural failure. In most cases, targeted patching and a full-surface coating can stop active leaks and prevent future ones, without having to rip off the existing layers.

UV and Heat Damage

Prolonged exposure to the sun weakens most roofing surfaces, especially in hot climates like Florida, Texas, Arizona, and California. Reflective roof coatings act like sunscreen for your roof, reducing surface temperature and preventing further degradation from UV rays.

Seam Separation and Flashing Deterioration

On commercial and mobile homes with membrane roofs, seams and flashings are vulnerable points. These can be reinforced using fabric-reinforced coatings or mastics, effectively restoring waterproofing integrity.

Aging Roof That’s Structurally Sound

If your roof is 10–15 years old but still structurally solid, you likely don’t need a full tear-off. A roof restoration system can add a decade or more of life, delaying expensive replacement and keeping waste out of landfills.

Choosing to repair instead of replace isn’t just a smart financial decision, it’s also a meaningful step toward reducing waste and protecting the environment. For expert guidance on how to make your roof last longer contact the Weatherproofing experts at Lanco today.