Should you consider a roof rejuvenation in Savannah for your roof? We wouldn’t recommend a roof rejuvenation spray or service for many reasons and today, we will explain exactly why it is not recommended!
Hey there, I’m Derek, owner of Roofing Experts of Savannah, and over the last 20 years of inspecting and replacing roofs across Chatham County, I’ve seen a lot of “new” roofing trends come and go. One of the most talked-about ones lately is roof rejuvenation, a spray treatment that some companies claim can “bring your old roof back to life.”
It sounds appealing, right? A cheaper, quicker alternative to replacing your shingles and paying for a new roof. But I’ll be honest with you: after seeing the results firsthand here in Savannah’s humid, salt-air climate, I just can’t recommend it.
Let’s take a closer look at what roof rejuvenation actually is, how it works, and why it often creates more problems than it solves.
What Is Roof Rejuvenation?
Roof rejuvenation is basically a spray-on treatment designed to “refresh” old asphalt shingles. To make it easy to understand, think of a Band-Aid on your skin, but instead of the elastic kind—it’s the liquid spray Band-Aid kids like to use!
The idea is simple: over time, shingles lose the oils that make them flexible. Your asphalt shingles dry out from the strong Savannah sun, get brittle, and start shedding granules. Companies offering rejuvenation claim their special oil-based spray restores those lost oils, softens the shingles, and adds years of life back to your roof.
But here is a news flash – just like a Band-Aid, it doesn’t work long-term; it is just a short-term solution! Here’s what’s actually involved with roof rejuvenation sprays:
- What it is: A liquid blend (usually made of soy or other plant-based oils) sprayed onto the roof surface.
- What it claims to do: Restore flexibility, stop granule loss, and extend the roof’s life 3–5 years.
- How it’s applied: The roof is cleaned, then the treatment is sprayed evenly so it can soak into the shingles.
- What it doesn’t do: Fix leaks, replace cracked or missing shingles, strengthen your decking, or restore your manufacturer’s warranty.
On paper, it seems like a great idea. In reality, it’s a bit like putting lotion on cracked leather boots — it might make them look better for a few months, but it doesn’t fix the cracks or the worn-out material underneath.
Why Roof Rejuvenation Doesn’t Work Well in Savannah
Savannah’s weather is beautiful but brutal on roofs. Between the heat, humidity, salt air, and those heavy afternoon storms, shingles here break down faster than in many other parts of the country. That’s a big reason rejuvenation sprays often don’t hold up as they claim.
1. Humidity and Salt Air
Savannah’s coastal humidity and salt particles break down oils and coatings quickly. Those rejuvenation sprays might work better in dry, inland climates, but here they tend to wash out or lose effectiveness within a year or two.
2. Intense Heat and UV Exposure
We get strong UV rays that dry out shingles fast. Any surface coating — especially oil-based ones — tends to bake off under our sun. Once it evaporates, you’re back to square one.
3. Storm Damage and Wind Lift
Even if your roof looks “okay,” chances are you’ve had some wind-lifted shingles or small leaks from past storms. Rejuvenation doesn’t fix those issues — it just hides them. And a shiny, darker roof can make you think the problem’s gone when it’s still there underneath.
4. Warranty Voids
Most major shingle manufacturers — including GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed — clearly state that applying third-party coatings or oils voids your warranty. If you’ve got any remaining warranty coverage, a rejuvenation treatment wipes that away instantly.
The Common Problems We See After Rejuvenation
We’ve been called out to inspect dozens of Savannah roofs that were “rejuvenated” a year or two earlier. Unfortunately, what we usually find isn’t good:
- Patchy application: Some areas soaked up more oil than others, leaving dark streaks and uneven weathering.
- Slippery surfaces: Overspray can make shingles, siding, or decks slick — a safety hazard for anyone walking on the roof.
- Granule loss: Ironically, the oils that are supposed to “re-adhere” granules often make them fall off faster.
- Short lifespan: Most roofs look better for six months to a year, then fade right back to where they started.
It’s not that these companies are trying to scam anyone — the concept just doesn’t hold up well in our climate. The biggest issue with the whole roof rejuvenation process is the cost – essentially, you’re delaying paying for a new roof by 1-3 years, only to have to get a new roof and pay for the rejuvenation costs!
The Hidden “Roof Rejuvenation Spray Cost”
Roof rejuvenation is often marketed as an 80% cheaper alternative to a full roof replacement. And yes, up front, it might cost $1,500 to $3,000 for the rejevenation spray instead of $10,000 to $15,000 for a new roof.
But here’s the reality, a new roof will cost more but last longer, and delaying a new roof when it is necessary by using a rejuvenation service actually costs more! Here is an example of the financial comparison:
| Solution | Upfront Cost | Average Lifespan | Long-Term Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rejuvenation | $1,500–$3,000 | 1–3 years | Temporary cosmetic fix |
| Targeted Repairs | $500–$2,000 | 10+ years (when done early) | Extends existing roof life |
| Full Replacement | $8,000–$18,000 | 25–40 years | Long-term protection and warranty |
Once you factor in repeat applications every few years, possible warranty loss depending on the age of your roof, and early shingle failure, rejuvenation actually ends up costing more per year of life gained.
It’s a short-term Band-Aid, not a long-term investment, and some companies are marketing it as a maintenance service for new roofs. This is controversial in the roof industry right now because it can void warranties and in most cases, simply isn’t necessary.
Replace Roof or Rejuvenate:
We hear this often, “But Derek, My Roof Looks Fine, Why Replace It?”
Totally fair question! If your roof looks okay from the ground, it’s natural to want to stretch its life a bit longer. The problem is that rejuvenation hides the signs that tell us your roof is failing underneath. Essentially, when you need to rejuvenate, you’re likely already in need of a new roof —so why pay 2x?
Here’s what you really need to know:
- If granules are collecting in your gutters, your shingles are already breaking down beyond the surface.
- If nails are backing out or shingles are cupping, no spray will stop water from sneaking under.
- If decking feels soft or spongy, you could have hidden rot — and rejuvenation does nothing to stop that.
A quick roof inspection (free from us, by the way if you live in Savannah, Pooler, Richmond Hill, or The Islands) gives you the truth about what’s happening under those shingles. In some cases, you can have a roof repair, which will help prolong the life of a healthy roof with minor issues. However, spraying it with a topical surface rejuvenator is almost never necessary or worth the cost!
Roof Repairs and Replacements: The Better Long-Term Options
This leads us to your options, which is better: a roof repair or a roof replacement in Savannah? When we inspect roofs around Savannah, we usually find one of three scenarios:
- Your roof is in decent shape with a few problem spots. In this case, targeted repairs are your best bet. Fixing a few lifted shingles, sealing flashings, and re-nailing a loose ridge cap can buy you 5–10 more solid years for a fraction of the cost of replacement.
- Your roof is nearing end-of-life but still intact. Sometimes, it’s better to plan a replacement before leaks start. You’ll get a brand-new system, energy-efficient shingles, and a full manufacturer’s warranty that protects you for decades.
- Your roof is already leaking or heavily deteriorated. At that point, rejuvenation is wasted money. You’re spraying oil on a sponge. It might look “new,” but it won’t stop leaks, rot, or structural decay.
Depending on the scenario, each will result in either a repair or a replacement (or in some cases, nothing at all); however, you will notice that spraying it is never the option. In fact, here at Roofing Experts, we always walk you through the pros and cons of repair vs. replacement, and we’ll never pressure you into something you don’t need.
Why Roof Replacement Is the Smarter Choice in Savannah
When you invest in a new roof, you’re not just paying for shingles; you’re rebuilding your home’s first line of defense by improving the exterior’s most significant component. A new roof has many benefits, from curb appeal to energy efficiency!
Here’s what you actually get with a full replacement:
- Modern materials built for Savannah’s climate. Today’s shingles are UV- and algae-resistant, engineered to withstand our humidity.
- Stronger warranties. Most new systems include 25- to 50-year material coverage and 10- to 20-year labor warranties.
- Better ventilation and efficiency. New roofs often include improved attic ventilation and radiant barriers, which can lower your cooling bills.
- Higher resale value. A new roof adds immediate curb appeal and is one of the top features home buyers look for in Savannah’s real estate market.
- Peace of mind. No more wondering if that next storm will cause a leak. You can rest easy knowing your roof is solid for decades.
Final Thoughts of Roof Rejuvenation Pros & Cons
I completely understand why homeowners are tempted by roof rejuvenation; it promises to save money and extend the life of an expensive-to-replace item. But after inspecting hundreds of Savannah roofs, I can tell you from experience: it’s usually not worth it.
It’s not that these sprays are a total scam; they just don’t solve the real problems we see every day (hence the Band-Aid reference from earlier). They make an old roof look younger without making it stronger. And when the next storm rolls through or the next summer hits 100°F, that spray isn’t going to protect your home the way solid shingles will.
If you’re curious about the true condition of your roof or just want an honest opinion (no sales pitch), give us a call at Savannah Roofing Experts. We’ll inspect your roof, show you photos of what we find, and help you decide whether a small repair or a full replacement makes the most sense for your situation and budget.
Your home deserves protection that lasts — not just a temporary shine.
Roof Rejuvenation FAQs for Savannah Homeowners
1. How long does roof rejuvenation actually last in Savannah?
Most companies claim 3–5 years, but in our humid, coastal climate, it often fades in 12–18 months. Heat, salt air, and summer storms shorten the lifespan of any surface treatment.
2. Is roof rejuvenation safe for my landscaping and gutters?
Even with care, overspray can stain siding, clog gutters, and make decks slippery. Oils and silicone compounds also attract dirt and mildew over time which can lead to other issues with gutters and around your home.
3. Does roof rejuvenation work on metal, tile, or flat roofs?
No. These treatments are only designed for asphalt shingles. Using them on other materials can cause adhesion issues or coating buildup.
4. Will it void my roof warranty?
Yes — in almost every case. Major shingle manufacturers clearly state that applying any third-party coating or rejuvenation product voids the warranty.
5. What’s the best alternative to roof rejuvenation in Savannah?
If your roof still has life left, go with targeted repairs to fix leaks, flashing, or nail pops. If it’s nearing end-of-life, a full replacement is the most reliable long-term solution.
6. How can I tell if my roof needs replacement?
Look for missing or curled shingles, widespread granule loss, interior leaks, or soft decking. If your roof is over 15–20 years old, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection from a reputable roofing company in Savannah.
- Savannah Roofing Experts specialize in roofing, including metal, asphalt shingles, and commercial roofing.
- We can help with roof repairs and roof leak fixes.
- Recgonized as one of the best roofing companies in Savannah.
Comments are closed