Whether you need to replace a few missing shingles or something more extensive, or asking yourself, what is the cost of roof repair, here are the costs you can expect for typical roof repairs.
In this guide: Roof Repair Costs | Cost factors | Types of roofs | Types of repairs | Other cost considerations | DIY vs Professional | Signs of damage | Cost Saving Tips | How to hire a professional | Conclusion | Frequent questions
Your roof protects your home from the elements, so it can be stressful if it gets damaged. While roof repair can be expensive, it’s less expensive than roof replacement, so it’s best to catch problems as soon as they arise. In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of the most common roof repairs and provide money-saving tips.
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What Is The Cost Of Roof Repair And Price Factors
The national average cost of roof repair is approximately $1,000. However, you can pay between $300 and $15,000 depending on the repair you need. These are some factors that determine the price:
Type of repair: The larger or more complex the repair, the more it will cost.
Material – Some roofing materials are harder and therefore more expensive to work with than others.
Roof Features: Structural elements are more expensive to repair than surface features.
Slope/Design: If your roof is steep or difficult to access, labor costs will be higher.
Roof repair cost by type of repair
The type of repair has the greatest influence on the cost. A minor repair, like replacing a few missing shingles, will cost much less than replacing the support beams. The size of your roof usually doesn’t matter as much as the extent of the damage.
Repair Type Cost
Small Small Roof Leak Small Tile Replacement Leak Repair $50 – $500
Moderate Minor water damage Flashing replacement Felt/cover repair $500–$2,000
Major Partial roof replacement Sagging ceiling Extensive water damage $2,000+
Roof repair cost by material.
The type of roof you have will also determine how much it will cost to repair. In general, the more expensive and difficult the material is to install, the more it costs to repair per square foot. Asphalt shingles tend to be on the lower end of the price range, while metal and slate shingles are on the higher end.
Roof Type Cost per Sq. Ft. Average Repair Costs
Asphalt Shingles $4.25 – $8.25 $710
Composite Shingles $4.50 – $8.50 $450
Clay/ceramic tile $12 – $24.75 $1,000
Flat Roof Materials $5.50 – $7.50 $400
Metal Shingles $8 – $13.75 $1,300
Metal tiles $18 – $39.70 $1,600
Board tiles $12–$22 $1,500
Standing Seam Metal Panels $10 – $17.05 $1,600
Wood shakes/shingles $8 – $14.30 $750
Roof Repair Cost By Roof Characteristics
Your roof has at least a dozen features that may leak, rust, corrode, or need repair. Repair costs vary depending on the extent and location of the damage. Here are the average costs for some common roof feature repairs:
Roof Feature Costs
Chimney flashing $200-$300
Dormer window $250 – $1,000
Wings $1,450 – $1,650
Fascia/Soffits $300 – $1,500
Gutters $300 – $5,000
The beam is $300-$3,000
Camera cover $250 – $750
Skylights $300 – $500
Packages $500 – $5,000
Valley $300 – $1,000
Bleeding $75 – $250
Forget $250 – $750
Roof Repair Cost per Step and Design
Roof pitch, meaning the slope of your roof, and design will affect where your repairs are located on the price spectrum. Sloped roofs are more difficult and therefore more expensive to repair, while flat roofs are easier and cheaper to repair. This is because flat roofs lack the complex ridges, valleys, and berms of conventional roofs. Conversely, a roof with many levels and features, especially one that is several stories above the ground, will be the most expensive to repair.
Cost Factors for Roof Repair
Consider the following factors when budgeting for your roof repair:
Weather: If you live in an area with high winds or heavy snow, your roof is likely to sustain more damage and require more expensive repairs.
Time of Year: Repairs cost more when roofers are busiest: during the winter in cold climates and the rainy season in humid climates.
Age of your roof: Older roofs require more extensive and expensive repairs.
Location: Urban areas and areas with a housing boom often have higher repair costs.
Labor: About 60% of roof repair costs go towards labor.
Types Of Roofs
The roof type is characterized by the material that makes up the surface of your roof. Different roofing materials require different structures to support and seal them.
Composite and asphalt shingles
The most common type of roof in the United States is composed of asphalt or composite (asphalt and fiberglass) shingles. These roofing shingles come in different quality levels ranging from basic to premium with prices to match. Asphalt shingles have the shortest lifespan at approximately 20-25 years for standard shingles and 25-35 years for premium shingles.
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs can be made of clay, ceramic, terracotta, or concrete tiles. These tiles are very durable, but require a special base to support their weight. Tile roofs can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years, depending on the quality of the tile and the installation. Because clay is porous, these types of roofs don’t last long. humid climates or climates with extreme temperature fluctuations.
Flat Roofs
A non-sloped roof requires waterproof materials such as bitumen, tar and gravel, or a rubber membrane, as water does not slide off like a sloped roof. The lifespan of a flat roof varies from 10 to 25 years, depending on the climate. This type of roof is usually the least expensive to install and repair.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofing covers a variety of materials and styles, from corrugated iron to aluminum panels to high-quality zinc shingles. Metal roofs offer durability, energy efficiency, and weather resistance; In addition, they are easier to clean. The downside is that they are more expensive to install and repair, and not all homeowners like their appearance. Although copper and zinc are by far the most expensive metal roofing materials, they can last 70-100 years if installed correctly.
Slate Roofs
Slate, a type of flat metamorphic stone, is one of the most expensive roofing materials available. That’s because a low-maintenance slate roof can last 75 to 100 years. Slate has good resistance to heat and cold and is resistant to moisture and mold growth. It is also an excellent insulator, making it ideal for energy conservation. In addition to being expensive, slate tiles are also heavy and brittle, requiring careful installation and reinforced support.
Wooden Shingles And Battens
Cedar is the most commonly used wood for roofing, but poplar and sugar pine are also cut into shakes and shingles. Shakes have a more rustic, hand-carved appearance than shingles and tend to be more expensive. Wood shakes and shingles last about 30 years, but require a lot of maintenance, like staining and cleaning. They are also prone to moisture damage over time.
Types Of Roof Repairs
Not all roof damage requires the same type of repair work. Here are some of the most common types of roof repairs:
Chimney Flashing Repair: Roof flashings are thin sheets of metal, usually aluminum, that make the seams, seams and corners of a roof more water resistant. If the flashing corrodes or becomes loose, your roof could start to leak. Repairing or replacing flashing around a chimney typically costs between $200 and $300.
Dormer Repair: A dormer is an architectural addition that protrudes from the side of a sloped roof and contains a window. You’re covered in your own miniature roof, and repairs to this roof can cost anywhere from $250 to $1,000, depending on the extent of the problem.
Hail Damaged Roof Repair: Repairing hail damage and other storm damage can cost anywhere from $700 to $4,000. Surface damage may only require simple repairs, such as new shingles, while structural damage typically requires larger and more expensive repairs.
Ridge Repair – Ridges refer to the triangular shingles that sit at the top of the roof where the two sides meet. This area it is prone to cracks and voids that may require caulking or completely new tile and bedding (the cement mortar that holds tile in place). Repairs for cam cover damage typically cost between $250 and $750.
Eave Repair: Eaves are the intersections where the walls of a house meet the roof. These areas require careful engineering to support the roof and waterproof the home, so repairs are relatively expensive with an average cost of $1,450 to $1,650.
Roof Fascia and Soffit Repair: The horizontal boards that run under the overhang of a roof are called fascias. Fascia support gutters, so they must be in good condition. Close soffits, the exposed pieces of siding at the bottom of a roof overhang, are also important for ventilation. Repairs of these features have a typical price range of $300 – $1,500.
Hole in the roof: Repairing a hole in the roof can cost between $100 and $1,000, depending on the size of the hole and the type of roofing material.
Repairing a roof leak: The size of the leak and the length of time it has been occurring will determine the final cost of repair. A small leak can cost just a few hundred dollars to fix, but if a lot of water has gotten into your subfloor, your roof may need structural repairs costing $1,000 or more.
Roof replacement – In the worst case, the entire roof needs to be replaced. Roof replacement can cost between $8,500 and $14,300, with an average cost of $11,000. The final price of a new roof depends on the square footage of your home and the total cost of the roof.
Beam Tail Repair: Beam tails extend along the walls of the house and support the overhang. They are an integral part of a roof’s structure, so repairing them is usually a bit more expensive, between $300 and $3,000.
Ceiling Joist Repair: Ceiling joists form your roof. of wood. from the roof Exterior roofing material should protect them from moisture, but over time they can be damaged by water, insects or mold. Truss repair should only be done by a professional roofing contractor, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000 depending on the severity.
Roof Valley Repair: A roof valley is where two downslopes meet. Precipitation collects and flows in this area, so it must be carefully waterproofed with roof flashing. Depending on the extent of the damage, the repair can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000.
Roof vent repair – Vents, which allow gas or exhaust gases to escape the home, can form weak spots where they meet roofing material. Cracks and openings in these areas can usually be quickly and easily sealed with caulk, so repairs typically cost between $75 and $250.
Roof Edge Repair: The roof edge is the outside edge. Being essentially a raw edge of roofing material, it must be carefully caulked to preserve Water out. However, it’s an easily accessible location and repairs typically don’t require the existing roof, so the cost ranges from $250 to $750.
Sagging Roof – If an old roof begins to sag, it’s usually a sign of serious damage. Often the structure below the sagging must be exposed and replaced, making this one of the most expensive forms of roof repair after replacement. Be prepared to pay $2,000 or more.
Shingle Repair – If the roof damage is limited to the shingles, repair costs may be low, depending on the number of shingles affected. You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 for a standard pair of shingles to $800 for a variety of premium shingles.
Skylight repair: Like chimneys and vents, skylights can leak if they are not sealed properly. Repairs are usually simple and cost an average of $300-$500.
Other Cost Considerations
In addition to labor and materials, consider the following in your budget calculations:
Permits: The exact permit required depends on the type of work, but costs about $75.
Roof Inspection: If you’re not sure what the problem is, have your roof inspected by a professional for $100-$600.
Emergency Services – If you need an immediate roof repair, be prepared to add several hundred dollars to the total cost.
Gutters: Roof damage can also cause problems with your home’s gutters, which may require repair ($150-$500) or replacement ($1,000-$3,000).
Do It Yourself Versus Professional Roof Repair Costs
You may be able to fix some minor roof problems yourself, including missing shingles or minor leaks. You can buy standard shingles for around $30 a pack, and as long as you have a hammer, pry bar, and the right fasteners, the shingles are pretty easy to replace. Similarly, if the problem is a leak around a chimney, vent, or skylight, you can apply the sealant yourself. Always be sure to consider your physical ability before doing DIY repairs, and take proper precautions when working on a roof, especially if it’s a multi-story home.
For moderate to major problems, you’ll want to hire a professional roofing company. There’s a reason roofers must be licensed: Major roof repairs require specialized knowledge, experience, and equipment. Improper installation of even small sections of roofing material can cause significant problems if water enters the roof deck and internal structure. While labor costs can be high, professional roofing is worth the price to protect your home.
Signs Of Roof Damage
Some signs of roof damage are obvious, while others may be more subtle. Here are some indications that your roof may need repair:
visible damage to shingles (such as holes, cracks, and missing granules)
Moss or mold buildup in valleys
Leaks or water spots in your roof or attic
puddles of water on the roof
Ice dams after heavy snowfall
visible sagging
Rising energy bills are not caused by HVAC issues
gutters clogged with gravel granules
How to save on roof repair costs
If you are intimidated by the potential cost of roof repairs, here are some things you can do to minimize the total price:
Visually inspect the roof for possible damage twice a year and after major storms.
Have a professional do a roof inspection once a year to catch problems early.
See if your homeowners insurance policy will pay for repairs after a natural disaster.
For minor and moderate problems that occur during the snowy or rainy season, consider doing a temporary repair yourself and hiring professionals once the peak season is over.
Understanding the components of your roof system and what they are for will help you better understand what your roof needs.
Look for local, state or federal rebates for repairs that make your home more energy efficient.
How to hire a professional
When choosing between local roofing companies, here are some steps to take:
Ask if the contractors who will do the work are licensed, bonded, and insured.
If you use your home insurance or warranty, make sure the contractor is approved.
Get cost estimates and any type of warranty or guarantee in writing.
Ask for references from past customers and check out customer reviews on sites like Yelp, TrustPilot, or Google Reviews.
Check the company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) page for customer reviews and complaints.
Ask about special offers, discounts or sales.
Our Conclusion
Although roof repair can be expensive, it’s important to get it done right. This usually means hiring a licensed roofing contractor to do the repairs. There are some minor repairs you can do yourself, but if you’re not confident in your skills, consider whether you want to risk further damage to your roof and home. Be sure to leave room in your maintenance budget for roof repairs, especially if you live in an area that receives a lot of precipitation.