How Much Does Roof Repair Cost?

Highlights

• The typical range for roof repair cost is $379 to $1,758, with a national average cost of $1,060.
• The size, pitch, design, material, features, and location of the roof can all affect the cost of repairs. The type of repair, labor cost, and time of year are also contributing factors.
• Homeowners may need to schedule roof repair if they notice visible roof damage, leaks, sagging, increased energy bills, or frequently clogged gutters.
• Roof repair is a highly specialized skill that is best left to professionals. Homeowners will want to weigh the risk of injury or further damage to the roof against the cost of hiring a roofer.

Roofs are one of those features on a house that homeowners take for granted—right up until they need repair. Then, homeowners are faced with an unexpected expense that they may need to dip into emergency savings to cover. But just how much does roof repair cost? According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, most roof repairs cost between $379 and $1,758, with a national average cost of $1,060. The key to roof repairs is to catch the damage early enough that it can be fixed before more of the house is damaged by wind or water, which will be significantly more costly to address. Labor and materials make up the bulk of roof repair costs, but roof design and the extent of the damage will also influence the price. It’s also important for homeowners to consider their location and the current housing market, which could affect the cost of materials and labor.

Factors in Calculating Roof Repair Cost

Roof repairs can range from simple to complex. Patching some holes or leaks around vents or pipes is much simpler than repairing a section of roof that has rotted over time. The roof’s pitch, material, and other features could also increase the price of roof repairs. Roofing pros can assess the damage to a roof and repair each element. More straightforward repairs cost between $10 and $120, but there are several factors that come into play when homeowners are budgeting for roof repair costs, including the following.

Issue Type

In some cases, the damage to a roof is minimal. Flashing may have come loose over time due to heat and sun and needs to be resealed, or a few shingles could have blown off in the last wind storm. The thing about roof damage is that the minor problems can become massive challenges if they’re not repaired quickly. A leaky seal can rot an entire roof section, which is a much costlier repair.

Repair Type

Depending on what kind of damage the roof has sustained, the cost of repairs can vary significantly. For example, a short hail storm can loosen shingles in a few areas that will need to be patched or replaced. This can cost as little as $200. On the other hand, leaky roof repair costs up to $1,550. A professional roofing company can perform an inspection to determine the extent of the damage and whether it’s better to repair or replace a roof. Roof replacement costs anywhere from $2,800 to $6,000.

Roof Size, Pitch, and Design

Roofers build and repair roofs in 10-foot by 10-foot measurements called squares. If more than one square needs repair, the price goes up. If a roof has multiple levels and edges, it’s considered a complex roof, which means extensive repairs will take longer and cost more. The roof pitch is another factor for a pro to consider when homeowners are soliciting bidding on a roof repair job. If the roof has a steep slope, roofers will need to take extra precautions to work safely. Flat roofs are easier to fix and cost $400 on average to repair.

Roof Material

Roof materials come in all shapes and sizes, which can affect repairs. For example, metal roof versus shingles cost can be similar up front but differ down the road in maintenance and repairs. Asphalt is a common roofing material, but homeowners could also require metal, composite, slate, flat, or tile roof repair. Slate and metal roof repair is the most expensive, but a flat or composite roof is the least costly. It’s a good idea for a homeowner to hire a roofing company proficient at repairing their particular roof material.

Roof Features

A roof that has extra features like a skylight or chimney may have more leaks that need repair. It can be challenging for a homeowner to find the leak in a skylight, so they’ll want to leave this challenging task to a pro who knows what to look for. Repairing a roof around a skylight or chimney could take longer or cost more if either element needs to be replaced or fixed.

Roof Location

While the main roof of the house may be the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to roof repairs, sheds, outbuildings, and porch roofs also need occasional maintenance. In general, a garage or shed roof will cost less to repair (between $100 and $1,000) simply because of its small square footage. Deck, carport, or porch roof repairs are also relatively low starting around $150. The following table shows the roof repair cost for different locations.

Labor 

Labor makes up a good portion of roof repair costs. Most roofing companies charge between $45 and $75 per hour for roof leak repairs. Minor roof repairs typically only take a couple of hours to complete, which gives an average labor price of $90 to $150. Homeowners can look up “roof repair near me” to get a sense of local prices in their area.

Time of Year

Fixing a roof in the winter in an area with snow and ice is a complicated and potentially dangerous task. Icy shingles or a snow-covered roof means the roofers must take extra precautions to avoid slipping. In the case of an emergency roof repair during a snowstorm, the price could increase by up to 100 percent. On the other hand, roofing season tends to slow down in the fall or in areas with milder winters. It may be possible for a homeowner to schedule a roof repair for 10 percent to 15 percent less than normal if the contractor is less busy.

Additional Costs and Considerations

The repairs, materials, and roof design aren’t the only things homeowners will want to consider for roof repair costs. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may be necessary for them to pay for permits, a roof inspection, or emergency roof repair. These and other additional cost factors are explained below.

Permits

In general, a permit is not needed for small roof repairs, but if there’s significant damage the homeowner will want to check with local authorities first. The average permit for roof repair or replacement costs $255 to $500.

Roof Inspection 

If a homeowner is unclear on where the roof damage is or what’s causing it, a roofing company will need to do a roofing inspection. This process includes checking around any roof fixtures, inspecting fascia and gutters, and checking shingles. If the damage is severe, a roofer may also check the attic to see if the wood and insulation have rotted. A roof inspection costs from $125 to $325.

Emergency Roof Repair

Roof emergencies can disrupt a home and potentially be dangerous to its residents. It’s a good idea for a homeowner to call a roofing pro as soon as possible to get the roof repaired. Most emergency roof repairs cost at least $100 to $300 more than usual. Homeowners insurance may cover the cost of emergency repairs due to a storm, so the homeowner will want to be sure they check their policy first.

Homeowners Insurance Coverage

Homeowners insurance may cover some or all of the cost of roof repair if the damage was caused by a covered peril. Some common examples are fallen trees, severe storms, and fire damage. However, if the roof is crumbling due to age or neglect, repairs are not likely to be covered by a home insurance policy. Specific coverage will vary from policy to policy, and homeowners are advised to check their policy to make sure they understand what is and is not covered.

Warranty Coverage

If the roof has a warranty that is still viable, it’s worth it for homeowners to look into how much of the repair cost can be covered under the contract. In addition, home warranties can cover roofs, usually as an add-on to an existing policy. Unlike homeowners insurance, warranties are not limited to specific perils and can cover regular wear and tear. However, homeowners will want to keep in mind that home warranties don’t typically cover complete roof replacement. Another common stipulation is coverage that applies only to parts of the roof that are protecting inhabited parts of the home (i.e., not porches or sheds). Homeowners can look into the best home warranty companies for roof coverage, such as American Home Shield and Choice Home Warranty, to find a home warranty plan that suits their needs and budget.

Roof Cleaning

If a roof has a significant amount of algae or dirt buildup or lots of leaves that need to be cleared, this will have to be dealt with before the actual repairs can take place. This is a service that will add to the overall repair cost. Roof cleaning costs $450 to $700. Some homeowners opt to have their roofs cleaned regularly, as too much debris can be unsightly and age or damage the roofing material. Scheduling regular appointments with one of the best roof cleaning services can help extend the life of the roof.

Types of Roof Repairs

Roof repairs come in all shapes and sizes, from simple to complex. Repairing a roof can take less than an hour or a full day if the roof needs a partial replacement. There are over a dozen kinds of roof repairs, from shingle repair and roof patching to dormer or truss repair.

Chimney Flashing Repair

Flashing is a small metal strip that’s secured around the edges of chimneys and other roof fixtures. It helps prevent water from leaking into the cracks between the roof and the element installed in the roof. Over time, flashing can warp or loosen from extreme temperatures and break the watertight seal. Old flashing will need to be pried off the roof so new flashing can be nailed in its place to strengthen the seal around the base of the chimney. Repairing chimney flashing costs $200 to $500 on average.

Dormer Repair 

Any structure that alters the direction or integrity of the roof is at risk of leaks or damage over time. Dormers make for an attractive feature that allows more natural light into a house with extra windows, but they have a higher risk of leaks. Repairing a dormer can cost $250 to $1,000 on average.

Hail Damage Repair

Some hailstorms are so intense that hail can quickly clog or overburden weak gutters. Other storms rain hail that’s the size of golf balls, and this kind of hail can do severe damage to a house and roof by punching through weak shingles, destroying tile, or damaging skylights. Powerful hailstones can also crack flashing and fascia. A hail-damaged roof costs $700 to $4,000 to repair, but it’s a good idea for a homeowner to see if their insurance will cover any of this cost (if it doesn’t, it may be time for the homeowner to search for policies offered by some of the best homeowners insurance companies like Lemonade).

Hole in Roof 

A hole in the roof is about as helpful as an umbrella that won’t open in a downpour. If it seems as if there could be a hole in the roof, homeowners will want to call a professional quickly so the hole can be repaired before it gets any bigger. Holes can be small or big, but repairing them often comes with high costs. Roofers can patch a small hole for around $200 or so, but a large hole that requires replacement materials could cost up to $1,100.

Leak Repair

Roof leaks aren’t always extensive or caused by blown-off shingles. Sometimes flashing cracks, a skylight leaks, or the gutters get clogged. Cracked vents are the cheapest to repair, averaging $75 to $250. Skylights that leak could cost $300 to $800 to repair. Cleaning gutters as a DIY project can be free for those who already have the equipment, or it’ll cost about $162 for a professional service. If the house is prone to ice dams in the winter (melted snow that refreezes and weighs down the roof), a roofer or ice dam service can remove them for $500 to $700. In general, roof leak repair costs $360 to $1,550.

Patching 

Patching a roof is similar to repairing a hole in the roof. The average cost to patch a roof is $200 to $1,000 and depends on the area that needs to be restored. Replacing a few shingles will cost less than having to replace and reseal a skylight. Patching a roof is a quick way to repair roof damage, but sometimes it’s only a temporary option, and eventually the roof will require repair or total replacement.

Ridge Capping Repair 

All roofs have at least one ridge where the slope changes positions. These ridgelines are capped with triangular pieces that cover any cracks between the roof materials below. If a ridge cap is damaged or a crack appears underneath it, water can leak into the roof and under the shingles or tiles. It usually costs $250 to $750 to repair ridge caps, including applying fresh mortar.

Roof Eaves Repair 

Roof tails form the foundation for the eaves built to hang over the edges of the house to keep water from running down the sides of the house. These helpful features are expensive roof repair elements, with an average cost of $1,500 to $1,700. They’re a complex structure that may involve repairing the shingles, fascia, trusses, or any other damaged part that forms a sturdy eave.

Roof Fascia Repair

Most roofs have fascia attached to the roof’s edges to provide extra support for the roof materials and for aesthetic purposes. These long boards can warp or crack from extended exposure to sun and rain. It costs between $600 to $6,000 to repair fascia depending on how many fasciae there are and if they’re custom made.

Roof Tail Repair

Roof tails, or rafter tails, are the boards that extend beyond the walls of a house to form the eaves. Soffits and fascia are attached to these tails. Excessive moisture or insects can damage these boards over time and cause more significant problems if they’re not repaired in a timely manner. It could cost between $300 and $3,000 to repair roof tails, depending on if the damage extends into the trusses.

Roof Truss Repair

When a roof truss needs repair, it may also be worth the homeowner considering new roof cost options. Homeowners will want to have a roofing contractor inspect the damage to the trusses to determine if they can be repaired or not. Since trusses are the structures that define and support the roof, they’re a critical piece that should be fixed as soon as rot, insects, pests, or storms damage them. Homeowners can expect to pay around $500 to $5,000 for roof truss repairs.

Roof Valley Repair

A roof valley is where two roof lines dip down and meet at a lower point. Gravity works to bring water and snow to this lower point on the roof, which means it’s an area that needs special attention. A buildup of water and snow can cause this area to sag or crack and expose the roof’s interior. The cost to repair a roof valley averages $350 to $1,000, depending on the severity of the problem.

Roof Vent Repair

Roof vents are used to allow excess odors and hot air to escape an unfinished attic. Since they’re fully exposed to the elements, they wear out over time, especially in climates with extreme temperature shifts. It typically costs $75 to $250 to repair roof vents. They usually need to be replaced by cutting them out, installing a new one, then sealing around the edges to prevent leaks.

Roof Verge Repair 

It costs $250 to $750 to repair the verge of a roof located on the edges or sides of the roof. Roof materials are more exposed to the elements here, so it’s not uncommon for this area to need repairs. When the roof is installed, the materials on the verge are usually anchored more securely, but wind and weather can still damage or expose the roof underneath.

Sagging Roof Repair

Roofs are constructed to be flat from edge to edge. If there is a dip anywhere along the roof, this indicates a sagging roof problem that will need to be repaired soon. An isolated sag in the roof may not require a complete roof replacement if it’s caught early. Sagging roofs usually happen from a buildup of snow or water that weighs down the shingles and boards underneath. If a homeowner doesn’t know how to fix a sagging roof themselves, hiring a pro will cost $1,500 to $7,000.

Shingle Repair

Making repairs to a shingle roof is one of the most common roof repair costs. Though asphalt shingles have a low up-front installation cost and can withstand high winds if properly installed, they can sometimes blow off in strong winds or come loose around chimneys or skylights, leading to leaks. If the roof has many shingles that need repair, homeowners can expect to pay $150 to $800 on average.

Skylight Repair

Though skylights provide extra light to the house’s interior, they are also at a higher risk of leaks. Water and ice can collect around the edges and wear out the seals along the roof. They need to be inspected often to check for leaks before the leak becomes serious. Repairing a skylight usually costs $300 to $800.

Do I Need Roof Repair?

Roof repair costs are usually unplanned expenses. Fortunately, they’re cheaper than replacing a roof, but it can still be a big pill to swallow to spend money on a roof repair. In some cases, it’s unavoidable to ignore a roof repair, like when a major storm or earthquake causes damage. If any of the following signs of roof problems are present, it’s time for the homeowner to have their roof repaired.

Visible Roof Damage

Visible roof damage is a clear sign that the roof needs attention. Some damage may be apparent, but smaller damage may be less visible and will require inspection. Homeowners will want to look for missing or wet shingles, shingle granules in gutters, blistering or peeling paint, sagging, water stains on the exterior or attic walls, light in the attic, and noticeable wear and tear of roof features like chimneys. If they see any of these signs, it’s wise to call a professional roofing company to assess the damage and make a plan to fix it.

Leaks and Other Signs of Moisture

Since the whole point of having a roof is to keep water from getting into the house, any leak on the top level of the home is a reason to check for roof damage. Water leaks could be as subtle as water stains on walls or ceilings, whether in the attic or just under the eaves. A wet patch of shingles also indicates that moisture has collected under the shingles. Any visibly wet or rotting boards are a big indication that there is a roof leak.

Sagging Roof Deck

A sagging roof deck is a major indication that the roof needs to be repaired. If the roof is old or it wasn’t installed well, the decking may not be strong enough to support the heavy weight of snow or water in certain areas. The excess weight will push down into the attic between the trusses and cause a sagging appearance. It can be small at first, perhaps only a couple of feet wide, but it could grow so large that the roof will have to be replaced if left unchecked.

Increasing Energy Bills

Attics are a collection point of excess air, both hot and cold. If energy bills start to climb suddenly and the homeowner has ruled out problems with the HVAC system, the problem may be a roof leak. Warm air and cool air can escape out of a roof leak and cause the HVAC system to run more to compensate.

Clogged Gutters

Gutters need to be cleaned regularly to prevent debris and water from pooling at the edge of the roof. When pests have access to the roof and a pile of debris, it can spell disaster for the roof, as this combination can encourage an infestation that could cause a leak. Rather than figuring out how to get rid of roof rats or birds’ nests down the road, homeowners are advised to have the gutters cleaned in a timely manner. Additionally, keeping an eye on the debris that’s in the gutters while cleaning them out provides homeowners with an opportunity to look for shingle granules collecting in the gutters. Worn-out shingles begin to disintegrate when they need replacing.

Roof Repair: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

Keeping gutters free and clear is a necessary part of home maintenance. Taking care of this task as a DIY project is certainly an option for homeowners who are comfortable using ladders and getting on the roof. Still, a professional gutter cleaner may be better equipped than homeowners who have a complex or steep roof or physical limitations. Some homeowners may even be comfortable applying a fresh sealant to a skylight that started leaking, and they can certainly do some visual inspections of the roof and attic if they suspect they have a roof leak. However, beyond these more straightforward tasks, repairing a roof is a risky job that’s best left to professionals who are experienced and comfortable doing it. The last thing anyone wants is an injury from falling or stepping through a weak part of the roof. Instead, homeowners are advised to let insured roofers take care of the dangerous job of roof repairs.

Working on a roof requires balance and skill—all without a fear of heights. A steep roof pitch is no laughing matter, and roofers may use special equipment to stay safe while working at a steep angle. Beyond the general safety concerns, building or repairing a roof so it lasts for years takes skill and expertise. Some roof repairs require more than one item to be repaired. For instance, a roofer can inspect the damage around a chimney and discover that the roof is soft for several feet around the chimney. As a result, they can determine that the decking and even a truss may also need repair. The best roofing companies will know exactly what materials are required to do any kind of roof repair; homeowners can search for “roof replacement near me” to find a pro who can help.

How to Save Money on Roof Repair Cost

Though roof repair costs aren’t as expensive as some repair costs, they’re still an unexpected expenditure that could have been used for something more exciting. To keep costs low, consider these tips for how to save money on a roof repair project.

• Keep up the maintenance. Stay on top of any roof problems so you only have to pay for a roof repair instead of a new roof.
• Be vigilant. Inspect the roof’s exterior and attic after every major storm to check for any leaks or damage.
• Check your insurance policy. If the damage comes from a natural disaster, homeowners insurance may cover or assist with roof repair costs.
• Shop around. Don’t hesitate to get more than one quote for roof repair costs.
• Wait for the offseason. If the repair isn’t critical, consider waiting until demand is lower.
• Do your research. Look into how the parts of the roof work together so you can make an informed decision after an inspection and pay only for the repairs you need.
• Check for government rebates. Some rebates may apply if the repairs make your house more energy efficient.
• Choose pros wisely. If the repairs will be covered by your insurance, use a company from the insurer’s approved list.
• Check local community assistance programs. If a recent storm damaged many homes in your area, you may be able to have the roof repaired at a discount. Check the USA.gov website for programs or search online for programs in your state.
• Keep an eye out for discounts. Sign up for newsletters from roofing companies. They may offer specials that aren’t otherwise advertised.

Questions to Ask About Roof Repair

Most people aren’t comfortable getting on a roof to make repairs, so it’s essential that they hire a trusted roofing contractor. Because roofing is a high-risk industry, a reputable roofing company must have a license and insurance, so the homeowner will want to ask about that first. It’s also wise for a homeowner to inquire about warranties or guarantees the company offers for roof repairs. Homeowners can ask a roofing contractor any of the following questions to help them feel confident in hiring the right roofer.

• Do you accept my homeowners insurance?
• How long have you been in the roofing business?
• Can you provide references?
• Do you have any specials or discounts?
• What happens if you or an employee falls from my roof?
• Will you send fully trained employees to repair my roof?
• How will you protect my property while you remove damaged roof materials?
• When will you repair my roof, and how long will it take?
• How much do you charge for a complete roof inspection?
• Are you proficient at handling my roofing materials?
• What if you discover more damage once you’re working on the visible repair?
• What steps should I take to keep my roof in good condition?

FAQs

Don’t get bogged down by the many aspects of roof repairs. In most cases, roof damage caused by normal wear and tear is relatively simple to fix, and insurance may cover major problems. If there are any remaining uncertainties about roof repair costs, review the answers to these frequently asked questions.

Q. What’s the average cost to repair a roof? 

The average roof repair costs $1,060. The typical range of repairs is between $379 and $1,758.

Q. How do you fix a leaking roof? 

The steps to fix a leaking roof are as follows:

• Inspect the attic for visible signs of light or water stains.
• Inspect the roof for wet shingles, holes, damaged flashing, or other areas where water could penetrate the roof.
• If the leak isn’t identifiable on a sunny day, check the attic during a rainstorm.
• Put caulk or sealant around any pipes, vents, or other openings that should be sealed.
• Replace any damaged or missing shingles.
• Hire a professional to repair any damaged tails, trusses, eaves, or other roofing materials.

Q. How much does it cost to patch a roof? 

If the only repair needed is a patch to a broken seal around a pipe or gutter, a homeowner can purchase sealant and fix the issue themselves for minimal expense, provided they have the skills and comfort level to complete the task. If the patch required is more extensive, a roofer can repair the damage for $100 to $1,000. The bigger the patch, the more labor and materials are needed.

Q. Are repairs for a leaking roof covered by my homeowners insurance? 

It depends on the cause of the leak. Most roof repairs are not covered by insurance for everyday wear and tear caused by age or poor maintenance. Fire damage and storm damage like hail or fallen tree branches may be covered under certain conditions, so be sure to read the policy carefully. You may still be responsible for the deductible. In most cases, if the claim is filed after too much time has passed, coverage will be lost.

Sources: Angi (1 and 2), HomeAdvisor, Fixr, This Old House

 

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