Roof Repair Guide
Identify problems, understand costs, and know when to call a pro.
Common Roof Repairs
Missing/Damaged Shingles
$150 - $400Individual shingles blown off, cracked, or curling. Common after storms.
Warning Signs:
- Visible bare spots
- Shingles in yard
- Granules in gutters
- Curling corners
Roof Leaks
$200 - $1,000Water entering through damaged areas. Can cause major interior damage if ignored.
Warning Signs:
- Water stains on ceiling
- Dripping water
- Musty smell in attic
- Mold growth
Flashing Repair
$200 - $600Metal seals around chimneys, vents, skylights deteriorate and leak.
Warning Signs:
- Rust on flashing
- Separated seams
- Water stains near features
- Visible gaps
Sagging Roof
$1,000 - $8,000+Structural issue indicating damaged decking, rafters, or water damage.
Warning Signs:
- Visible dip in roofline
- Bouncy feeling walking on roof
- Cracked ceiling
- Doors not closing
Damaged Gutters
$150 - $500Gutters pulling away, leaking, or damaged affect roof drainage.
Warning Signs:
- Visible separation
- Overflowing during rain
- Water pooling near foundation
- Rust spots
Skylight Leaks
$300 - $800Seals around skylights fail over time, causing water intrusion.
Warning Signs:
- Water around skylight
- Foggy glass
- Visible sealant cracking
- Staining around frame
Ice Dam Damage
$500 - $2,000Ice buildup at edges causes water backup under shingles.
Warning Signs:
- Icicles at edges
- Ice ridge at roof edge
- Interior water damage in winter
- Shingle damage
Ponding Water (Flat Roof)
$300 - $1,500Standing water on flat roofs accelerates deterioration.
Warning Signs:
- Visible puddles 48+ hours after rain
- Algae/moss growth
- Membrane bubbling
Roof Emergency? Follow These Steps
Contain Water Damage
Place buckets under leaks. Move furniture and valuables. Lay down tarps to protect floors.
Document Everything
Take photos and videos of damage inside and out. Note date, weather conditions. This is crucial for insurance.
Temporary Protection
If safe, apply a tarp over the damaged area. Secure with weighted objects or boards. Never work on a wet roof.
Call a Professional
Contact a licensed roofer for emergency repair. Get temporary fix done quickly to prevent further damage.
Contact Insurance
Report the damage to your homeowner's insurance. Provide documentation. Get multiple repair estimates.
Prevention Tips
Annual Inspections
Have a professional inspect your roof yearly, especially before winter. Catch small issues early.
Cost: $100-$300/year
Keep Gutters Clean
Clean gutters 2-4 times per year. Clogged gutters cause water backup and ice dams.
Cost: $100-$200/cleaning
Trim Overhanging Trees
Branches can damage shingles and drop debris. Keep branches 10+ feet from roof.
Cost: $200-$500
Address Moss/Algae
Growth holds moisture and damages shingles. Install zinc strips or schedule cleaning.
Cost: $200-$600
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Adequate attic ventilation prevents heat/moisture buildup that damages roof from inside.
Cost: $300-$1,000
Check After Storms
Visually inspect for damage after major storms. Look for debris, missing shingles, fallen branches.
Cost: Free
Frequently Asked Questions
Signs include: missing, cracked, or curling shingles; water stains on ceilings; granules in gutters; visible light in attic; higher energy bills; moss or algae growth; sagging areas; and age (15+ years for asphalt). Have a professional inspection if you notice any of these signs.
Simple repairs like replacing a few shingles are possible for confident DIYers with safety equipment. However, most repairs are best left to professionals due to safety risks, complexity, and warranty concerns. Professional repairs also maintain your home's insurance coverage and resale value.
Minor repairs (shingle replacement, small leak fix) take 1-4 hours. Moderate repairs (flashing, larger sections) take half to full day. Major repairs or partial replacement can take 1-3 days. Weather delays are common. Emergency tarping can be done same day.
Insurance typically covers sudden damage (storms, hail, fallen trees) but not gradual wear and maintenance. Document all damage with photos. Age of roof affects coverage—some policies don't cover roofs over 20 years. File claims promptly and get multiple estimates.
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