How much does roof repair cost?

Roofs protect you from external elements. But it's one of those house features that homeowners take for granted until signs of damage start showing. While roof repair can be costly, it is less expensive than roof replacement, so it is best to address roof issues as soon as possible. 

Minor roof repair costs can be as low as $150, and major ones can be up to $7,000. The cost will depend on factors like roof material, features, pitch, and design. This guide can help you set your budget as your roof develops wear and tear over time.

Average roof repair cost per roof type

There are three categories of roof repairs: minor, major, and replacement. It’s best to determine which type your roof needs before shelling out for the repair.

Types of roof repairs

Minor roof repairs

You can spend between $150 and $1,500 on small repairs. These repairs mostly require basic equipment and supplies, and neither specific skills nor expertise is needed to complete them. Hiring a professional for this task is still advised because if you overlook an important detail or carry it out improperly, a minor roof repair could quickly turn into a major one. Typical minor fixes include:

• Washing and repairing gutters

• Repairing minor roof leaks

• Replacing shingles that are damaged or missing

• Patching a hole or puncture

• Removing stagnant water

• Flashing (small holes, corroded spots, resealing)

Major roof repairs

Major repairs can cost between $1,500 and $7,000 because they need specialized equipment, materials, and labor can be higher if it's a more complex job. These repairs require significant electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or engineering work. Depending on where you live, they might also need permits and inspections throughout the repair process. 

Any changes to your roof or home's structure - repairs for structural failures (both anticipated and actual) and the steps are taken to address safety issues classify as major repairs. Other significant repair jobs include: 

• Fixing faulty electrical wiring

• Fixing major water damage

• Addressing problems created by the environment (mold, gas, etc.)

• Fixing roof slumping or roof shrinkage

• Repairing chimneys

• Flashing (total replacement)

Roof replacement

A roof that is in good condition can last for more than 30 years. But if yours is older than 20 and has sustained significant or recurring damage, you may need to replace it entirely. This can cost you more than $8,000.

To save money on roof repairs in the future, ensure you perform regular roof maintenance to identify or prevent more significant roof issues. 

Factors that affect roof repair cost

Roof material

The cost of roof repair will also depend on the roof material, such as metal or shingle. The cost per square foot increases with how expensive and challenging the material is to install. For instance, slate roof repair costs and metal tile roof repairs are often more costly than wood or asphalt shingles and flat roof repair prices.

Roof features

Some components on your roof have the potential to leak, rust, corrode, or require other repairs. Depending on the size and location of the damage, roof leak repair costs and other charges can vary. The typical price ranges for a few common feature repairs are as follows:

Pitch and design

Roof pitch, or the slope of your roof, and design will also impact the total cost. While flat roofs are simpler and less expensive to repair, steep roofs require more work and are, therefore, more costly. That's because traditional roofs have intricate ridges, valleys, and verges, whereas flat roofs don't. 

Simply put, a roof with many levels and features—especially one many stories up—will cost the most to fix. 

Labor and permits

The majority of the expense of roof repair goes to labor. Repairing roof leaks typically costs between $45 and $75 per hour. Minor roof repairs usually take a few hours and cost between $150 and $400. While these don’t typically require a permit, it's best to consult with your local council if you need permission for major roof repairs. A permit typically costs $75.

Time of year

Winter roof repair in a snowy, icy environment is challenging and often hazardous. The roofers must take extra caution and tools to prevent sliding if the shingles are icy or the roof is covered in snow. 

The cost of an emergency roof repair during a snowfall may double. It tends to wane in the fall or regions with warmer winters. If the roofer is less busy, you may be able to schedule a roof repair for significantly less than usual. 

Location

Labor rates and roofing material prices can differ depending on the cost of living in your area. Your overall roof repair cost may be greater if you reside in a major city like New York or Los Angeles than elsewhere in the country.

Additional costs and considerations

Roof inspection

If you don't know where the roof damage is or what's causing it, you can do a roof inspection first. Checking around any roof fixtures as well as inspecting fascia, gutters, and shingles are all part of this process. 

A roofer may also inspect the attic to see if the wood and insulation have rotted due to severe damage. The average roof inspection costs around $200, but they can range from $99 to $375.

Emergencies

Emergencies on your roof might cause disturbance and possibly endanger your family. You should get in touch with a roofing expert immediately to fix the problem. Emergency roof repairs often cost $100 to $300 more than regular repairs. Check your policy first, as your homeowner's insurance may cover the cost of emergency storm-related repairs.

Post a task for roof repair

Now that you know the variables influencing roof repair costs, you are now prepared to create your Airtasker listing for roof repair! You should be specific about your requirements and what you believe the job requires. Include the following information to get the best offers:

• Your budget

• Your preferred time window 

• Your location and whether you anticipate any problems or difficulties brought on by your roof problem

• The roof material, features, pitch, and design

The more information you provide, the faster it is for a roofer to make a precise offer. Remember that most will use your listing as a guideline when they arrive to do the task, so be accurate and transparent. Then, all that is left to do is wait for the offers and compare to choose a trusted roof repair professional for the job. 

Building or repairing a roof to last for years requires skill and expertise. If you need a roof repair and want it done right the first time to save money, energy, and time, a reliable roofer can help. So, post a task to find an expert now!