Roofs come in many different materials, including metal, asphalt and slate. In many cases, the more expensive the roofing material, the more expensive the repair. But factors like the roofing material’s weight, size and availability can also affect costs.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are among the most popular roofing materials. They’re relatively affordable and durable, but they can blow off with strong winds. They also have a tendency to come loose around chimneys and skylights, which can lead to leaks. The lifespan of asphalt shingles heavily depends on the manufacturer, climate and style.
Current national average cost for repairs: $875
Common repairs: Curled corners, cracks, and missing or damaged shingles.
Composite Shingles
Composite shingles comprise a mixture of fiberglass and asphalt. They typically last for around 30 years, which is less than some other materials, like slate, but their repairs are usually relatively straightforward and inexpensive.
Current national average cost for repairs: $900
Common repairs: Curled corners, cracks, and missing or damaged shingles.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs come in various alloys and pure metals, but steel and aluminum are usually the most affordable. Metal roofs are highly durable and wind- and water-resistant, usually lasting for 40 to 70 years or more with proper maintenance.
Current national average cost for repairs: $1,580
Common repairs: Corrosion, oil canning and stress wrinkling, scratches, scuffs and color fading.
Wood Shakes
Wood shakes or shingles can provide a traditional aesthetic to your home, but they’re notoriously difficult to install and maintain. Depending on the wood species, these shingles can last anywhere from 30 to 60 years. However, this roofing material is particularly susceptible to rot, moss and insect damage. The good news is that repairs aren’t usually as costly as they are for many other roofing materials.
Current national average cost for repairs: $750
Common repairs: Moss growth, insect damage, rot, mold and other water damage.
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs come in many different styles and materials, including clay, concrete and terracotta. Clay and concrete tiles are usually the most durable, lasting for up to 50 years. Tile roofs in general are fairly easy to maintain, but they can break when stepped on so repairs are generally best left to pros who know how to navigate them without inflicting damage.
Current national average cost for repairs: $1,350
Common repairs: Broken or missing tiles, brittleness, cracking and leaks.
Slate Roofs
Slate roofs are among the most expensive roof types, but they’re also the most durable and by far the longest lasting: They have a lifespan of up to 200 years with proper maintenance. However, slate is incredibly heavy so it’s not a fit for all homes, and in some cases, you might need additional reinforcements to support it.
Current national average cost for repairs: $1,625
Common repairs: Chipped, broken or loose tiles.
Flat Roofs
Flat roofs are often made of more affordable materials than many other roofing types, including ethylene propylene diene monomer, thermoplastic polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride, built-up roofing (a special type of roofing system) and modified bitumen. These materials are generally light and easy to install, but they have the shortest lifespan of all materials, ranging from 15 to 30 years, depending on the type.
Current national average cost for repairs: $400
Common repairs: Pooling water, tearing and wrinkling.