Roof Repairs: Roof Leak Repair Cost

When it’s time to have a roof leak repair job done on your home, the biggest issue in your mind behind getting this taken care of quickly is probably the cost. Roofs are not inexpensive purchases, and a leak repair is not something that most people plan for in their monthly or yearly budgets. That said, the cost can range dramatically depending upon what type of roof you have, the pitch, the size and type of repair, and whether you do it yourself or hire a professional.

Small DIY Roof Repairs

If the leak was caused by a few shingles that were curling at the corners, you can fix this yourself for the cost of a few nails and a bucket of roofing cement. A bucket of cement can run you anywhere from $30 to $100 depending on the brand and the size of bucket that you need.

If you have missing or cracked shingles on your home, which is causing the leak, your leak repair cost won’t be too much more, either if you can take care of it yourself. You can either purchase a sheet of metal and cut some shingles out yourself for a very inexpensive – albeit temporary – repair, or you can purchase a box of shingles to do the job. 3-Tab and architectural shingles run around $30 per bundle, and if all you have missing is a shingle or two, this will get the job done.

Larger Roof Leak Repair Costs

Sometimes when your roof begins leaking it’s a sign of a larger problem, not just of a missing or cracked shingle or two. If this is the case, then you may need a partial or total reroof. You may also have a few small problems, but don’t want to take on the DIY project yourself, preferring to hire it out to a professional. This is where you may find that your roof leak repair is starting to add up. Because not only do you need to pay for the materials (and in a partial or total reroof, you need more than just shingles, nails, and cement, you also need felt, underlayments, ice and water shield, as well as ridge caps and flashing) you also need to pay for the labor. Remember that the size of the area being repaired, as well as the pitch of the roof and the shingles that you choose are all going to contribute to the overall price, and the only way to get an accurate estimate is to have a professional come out and give you one in writing.

National Roof Leak Repair Cost Averages

The national average price for having a leak repaired is around $926 for the entire job including materials and labor. Depending on where you live and the size of the job, this could range from $200 to $1,500, but most people find themselves paying somewhere in the vicinity of $745 to $1,100.

Take Care of the Problem Right Away

If you do discover a leak in your roof, your best option is to get it taken care of right away, either through a temporary DIY repair patch or by having a professional roofer make the repair. Letting the leak stay in your roof while you attempt to save the money can just make the problem bigger, and more expensive down the line.