No roof lasts forever. Depending on what kind of weather exists where you live, your roof could last anywhere from 10 to 25 years. However, roof repairs can be costly, especially if you’re not sure what you’re dealing with. Make sure you search online to learn about the most common roof repairs and their average costs.
This article will describe five of the most common roofing problems and their estimated repair costs. You’ll be able to see what’s wrong with your roof, how much you should expect to pay to fix it, and how to avoid similar issues in the future. A quick online search will help you find reputable roof repair professionals in your area.
1. Leaks
Leaky roofs can lead to mold, rot, or insect infestations. Waterproofing your roof helps protect against water damage, which will save you money down the road. If you have a leaky roof and need to fix it, waterproofing your roof should be at (or near) the top of your list. Thankfully it’s one of the most cost-effective home improvements you can make — waterproofing costs between $4 and $7 per square foot for typical residential roofs (including labor).
The main cause of leaky roof is often thought to be poor quality (or worn out) flashing. This is an important component in keeping water out of your attic. When it’s missing, there’s no question that leaks are going to happen. For example, improper or broken flashing will allow water into your house. That moisture build up will then create a ton of problems, including rot and mold.
2. Moldy Insulation
If you’re experiencing mold in your attic or crawl space, it’s probably because of wet insulation. This fix will involve removing all of your insulation from inside your home, cleaning up thoroughly, then using a fan to blow fresh air through while you reinstall it.
The average cost to repair moldy insulation is $1,000-to-$2,500. Be sure to purchase top-quality insulation so that you don’t have to repeat these repairs in just a few years.
3. Worn Shingles
Worn or broken shingles are a common roof problem that can lead to leaks, water damage, and high energy bills. If you have chipped or cracked shingles (or suspect your entire roof is in need of an upgrade), hire a contractor to give you an estimate for new shingles. The average cost of replacing asphalt shingles starts at $4 per square foot, but can range from $3 to $10 depending on what type of material you choose. Pricing may vary based on supply and demand too, as many supplies have shot up in price in recent years.
Tile or steel roofs typically cost more than asphalt shingle roofs, since they require more labor and specialized materials. Metal roofs start at about $6 per square foot, but prices vary widely depending on whether it’s flat or corrugated metal and whether it’s painted or galvanized steel.
The average cost to replace an entire roof varies a lot. Depending on the size of your house and what kind of roofing material you choose, replacing an entire roof can cost anywhere between $4,000 and $20,000. Factors like whether or not your home has skylights or windows that need to be covered during installation can also increase costs significantly.
4. Hail Damage
Hail damage happens when large hailstones fall at high speeds. If your roof is struck by hail, you’ll likely need to repair or replace it. While replacing a typical asphalt shingle roof costs around $7,500 on average, most homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $6,200 to $10,000 for repairs — after deducting any insurance benefits.
The cost of fixing hail damage depends largely on where you live. In some states (like Texas), it’s common for homeowners to file insurance claims after getting hit with hailstorms. But in other states (like New York), insurers tend to deny claims unless significant portions of your roof are damaged. The best way to know how much it will cost you? Get an estimate from a local contractor.
5. Issues With Ventilation
A small leak can cause water damage over time, as it leads to a buildup of humidity inside your home. Ventilation problems also lead to uncomfortable living conditions, due to large amounts of moisture building up in your attic.
A leaking roof (or skylight) can be costly to fix — in some cases, between $500-$1,000 or more. However, it’s always best you take care of it sooner rather than later. If a more serious repair is needed, you can expect an average cost of about $2,000.
The Bottom Line
The roof of your home protects you from rain, sleet, hail, snow, wind, and more. As a result, it’s essential to keep your roof in tip-top shape. If you live in an area with heavy snow or rainfall during the winter months, chances are that you might have to repair some damage at some point.
When it comes to average roof repairs, there are many different factors involved that will affect how much work needs to be done. In general, however, most homeowners can expect to pay anywhere between $400 and $1,000 for basic repairs. However, if you need extensive work done on your roof (or if you hire a contractor who charges by the hour), then costs could easily exceed $2,500. Replacing your roof entirely will likely cost $7,500 or more, depending on the size and materials used.
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