Average Cost

On average, homeowners can expect to pay around $719 for professional roof repair. Depending on the type of roof, the square footage of the damage, and the type of damage, some homeowners pay as low as $323.21 while others may need to pay over $1100.

Types of Roofs

The type of roof you have is a determining factor in how much you're going to pay for roof repair. While all roof materials are subject to normal wear and tear, leaks, and bad flashing, how professionals fix those problems is determined by what type of material it is.

• 

  Asphalt Shingles

  Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material in the United States (1). In many cases, asphalt shingle roofs are easy to fix will cost less than other materials.

• 

  Wood Shake

  Shake shingles are the precursor to asphalt shingles and give the home a unique and rustic look. However, shake shingles need more regular maintenance than asphalt.

• 

  Slate Shingles

  Slate Shingles are made out of a sedimentary rock, making them very durable and long-lasting. They generally need very little maintenance, however repairs can be more expensive than asphalt shingles.

• 

  Metal

  Metal is an incredibly common material for roofs, however it can be up to three times more expensive than other roofing materials. That being said, metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity.

• 

  Tile

  Tile roofs are often seen in deserts as they don't burn under scorching sunlight. Tile roofs, while extremely long-lasting, can be fragile and the material placed under the tiles will need to be repaired or replaced every ten years or so.

Leaking Roofs

Leaks are a common problem for roofs, no matter what material they're made out of. While a leaking roof may seem more like nothing more than an inconvenience to many homeowners, it can actually cause serious damage to your roof and home. If only a small area of your roof is damaged by water and causing leaks, it may only cost you an average of $100-$200. However, if you do not get the leak repaired as soon as possible, you'll end up paying over $1000 in repairs or even $6,600 or more (2) for a completely new roof.

Back to top

Broken Shingles

There are many different situations that could cause shingles to crack, break off completely, or become pulled up. From heavy wind and rain storms to falling tree branches, there are many ways your shingles can become damaged. Damaged shingles can lead to having a leaky roof as well as many other problems. Getting your shingles fixed can be relatively inexpensive, with most homeowners paying only around $100 for a standard square of shingles.

Back to top

Bad Flashing

Flashing is a thin sheet of material that is used in waterproofing homes (3). It is generally installed at roof hips and valleys, around skylights and chimneys, and at roof penetrations. Flashing can be made out of a few different materials, each with their own pros and cons.

• • Aluminum - Aluminum flashing is inexpensive, durable, and easy to form. However, if left in contact with certain materials, it will corrode very quickly.
• • Galvanized Steel - Galvanized steel is also very inexpensive, but it is not as durable as other materials.
• • PVC - PVC is pretty inexpensive for a flashing material and since it's not affected by treated wood, it makes for a great material to use in deck building.
• • Copper - Copper flashing is the most expensive type of flashing. It is extremely durable, though it is more difficult to form than aluminum.

Back to top

Chimney or Skylight Flashing

The flashing around your chimney or skylight can be damaged by many of the same factors as damaged shingles. However, since flashing around the chimney and skylight needs to be so precise, the most common cause of damage is from poor installation. When the flashing around your skylight or chimney is damaged, you'll notice leaks, drafts, and many other signs of damage. It's important to get these damages repaired as soon as possible.

Back to top

Ice Dams

If you live in an area that gets snow in the winter, ice dams are a serious problem (4). Ice dams are usually caused by improper air sealing or installation of insulation in your home. This causes your attic space and your roof to be at different temperatures in different spots. When snow accumulates on your roof, the part of the roof that is the warmer temperature will start to melt the snow, which causes the snow water to travel down your roof and freeze at the edge where your attic and roof are colder. Ice dams can cause rot, leaks, mold, paint peeling, and they cause giant icicles to form, which can hurt or kill anyone they fall on.

Back to top

References

1. Formisano, Bob. "Asphalt Shingles for Your Home". The Spruce. Retrieved 30 May 2017.
2. "New Roof Cost". CostHelper. Retrieved 30 May 2017.
3. "All About Roof Flashing". The DIY Network. Retrieved 30 May 2017.
4. "How to Get Rid of Ice Dams". This Old House. Retrieved 30 May 2017.

Back to top