Factors That Affect Your Roof Repair Cost

Whether you’re in need of a minor repair or a major roof replacement, the price of your roofing project will depend on a variety of factors. The type of material your roof is made from, its age, and the complexity of the job all play a role. Click here for more info.

For example, metal roofs cost more to repair than asphalt shingles because they’re harder to work with. In addition, certain repairs require specialized equipment and safety gear.

Labor

A large portion of your roof repair cost is labor. The labor costs associated with your roof repair will depend on a number of factors, including the type of repair, the materials used for the repair, and the extent of damage to the roof.

The repair type has the most significant impact on your roofing repair cost. A minor repair, such as replacing a few missing shingles, will cost less than a more extensive repair, like a structural repair to the trusses.

Depending on the materials used for the roof, repair costs may also be influenced by the pitch of your home. A steep roof is more difficult to navigate, which adds time and labor costs for the roofer.

Other components that may need to be repaired include fascia and soffits, which support gutters. These areas are also important for ventilation, so if they’re damaged, the cost can be high. Vents, which allow gas or exhaust to escape, can be prone to leaks if they’re not properly sealed and protected from water.

Materials

The materials used for roof repair are the biggest factor in its cost. Lighter roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles or flat single-ply membranes, are less expensive to repair than heavier roof types like slate and metal.

Besides the type of material, roof repair cost also depends on the size of the roof. A small leak may require a repair that only involves replacing a few shingles, while a larger problem needs more structural work.

Another major component of roof repair is the flashing. This thin piece of metal, which is installed around vent pipes and along skylights and chimneys, keeps water from getting into places it shouldn’t be.

The rake edge, which is the thin metal that runs along a gable roof’s eaves, also helps keep rainwater from getting into the gutter system. Repairing or replacing a rake edge can cost $200-$500, depending on the extent of damage and the type of material used.

Insurance

Your roof acts as the primary defense against the elements, so your home insurance company will likely pay for repairs or replacement if it is damaged by certain perils. These include hailstorms, heavy snowfall, and tornadoes.

The type of roof you have also determines how your insurance company will handle the roof repair cost. For example, if you have an older roof that is depreciating in value, most insurance companies will not pay for a roof repair unless you have replacement cost coverage.

However, if you have an older roof that has been well-maintained, you may be able to get it covered by your insurance company. Some policies will insure your roof based on actual cash value (ACV), while others will pay you the roof’s replacement cost, less your deductible.

Other things that will affect the amount of your roof repair cost are its age and condition. Some homeowners insurance policies only cover a roof if it’s 20 years or older, while others will offer full roof coverage with a claims settlement basis of replacement cost value. Click here for the next blog post.