How Much Does A Roof Repair Actually Cost?

There are many different roof types with varying price points, styles, and strengths based on the climate of your location. For example, asphalt shingles are a budget-friendly option that you can get for as little as $90 per square foot. Alternatively, if you decide to splurge on slate roofing you could be looking at up to $1,250 per square foot! As you consider your roof type, factor in its lifespan, quality, and maintenance needs because this will give you an indication of what to expect when issues arise and repairs need to be made.

Whether you're dealing with leaks due to shingle issues or more serious structural problems, costs range widely. On average, you can expect to pay around $767 per repair. However, minor repairs like leaks can cost around $45 to $75 an hour in labor, while fixing the wooden structure that forms the frame underneath a roof, can cost $1.50 to $4.50 per square foot.

Roof repairs are normal, but you should first determine if you need to repair or replace it. If it has experienced damage beyond repair or has reached its maximum life span — anywhere from 12 to 30 years depending on the type — then it might be better to think about replacing your roof completely. Outside these two occasions, an individual repair can cost anywhere from $348 to $1,186. If you need to replace your shingles, expect to pay from $215 to $1,400 depending on how many are damaged, and up to $2,500 to repair a sagging roof.

Apart from the main costs of labor and materials, there are other expenses to consider such as the inspection and urgency of the issue. An inspection can be around $200, while roofs that need to be fixed immediately will usually cost more. A good way to bring down the costs is to repair specific parts (like the shingles) instead of redoing the whole roof, if possible.

Leaks are one of the most common roof issues. This can happen for several reasons — the gutters might be clogged or the parts of the roof might be holding standing water, which can leak into the building or cause mold or other forms of damage. Various roof parts like the shingles can also get damaged from impact during severe weather conditions or wear and time over time. Problems can also stem from the initial installation and subsequent maintenance. If the roof wasn't fixed well or it hasn't been maintained regularly and properly, you can expect issues to come up constantly.

Certain roof issues are specific to the material. Metal roofs can experience fading, wrinkling, corrosion, rust, or oil canning. Roofs with wood materials can experience water, insect, or mold damage. The slates of slate roofs can chip or break, while the nails used to fasten them can decay or break down. An annual inspection is the best way to keep on top of maintenance and should help avoid any unexpected costs down the road.