In this roof repair cost guide we will explain how much it costs to undergo the most common types of roof repairs.
Our goal is to give you transparent information so you are able to make an informed decision when it comes to fixing your roof.
It can be a very stressful time when something goes wrong with your roof. You need to account for many different factors. This guide will alleviate those concerns by discussing each type of roof repair and how much it typically costs.
How much does a roof repair cost?
One of the most important factors to consider when researching your options for a roof repair is how much it is going to cost?
With so many variables involved roof repair costs can vary from just a few hundred pounds to several thousands of pounds.
The average cost of roof repairs in the UK can range from between £250 and £2500. However this could be over £5000 depending on the required repair works to be carried out.
These figures can feel overwhelming so let’s break them down and look at some of the various prices of roof repair costs.
| Type of roofing work | Average cost of work in the UK |
| Gutter Cleaning | £80 – £250 |
| Replace one missing ridge tile | £100 – £200 |
| Replace up to six ridge tiles | £200 – £400 |
| Repair or replace up to six damaged tiles | £200 – £400 |
| Fitting a new vent | £200 – £500 |
| Install lead flashing around chimney | £300 – £900 |
| Install flat roof on a garage | £1000 – £4000 |
| Install flat roof on a conservatory | £1000 – £4000 |
| Replace soffits and facias | £1000 – £3000 |
These prices are accurate as time of writing and provide a rough estimate of what to expect when repairing your roof.
| Type of Roof | Average Roof Repair Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Flat Roofs | |
| Bitumen | £100 – £150 per m2 |
| Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) | £140 – £200 per m2 |
| EPDM (Rubber) | £130 – £180 per m2 |
| Pitched Roof | |
| Clay Tiles | £120 – £180 per m2 |
| Concrete Tiles | £100 – £130 per m2 |
| Natural Slate (Spanish) | £160 – £240 per m2 |
| Fibre Cement Tiles | £100 – £180 per m2 |
Additional costs to consider
While the previous tables give you a good idea of what it is going to cost to repair your roof, there are also many other variable factors to consider.
These include labour and material costs, the price to hire scaffolding, hiring skips and waste disposal.
Other common variable costs you will need to be aware of are ease of access to the property, and in what part of the country you are located in.
What causes a leaking roof?
A new roof should last more than 20 years. However, we all know that plans don’t always work out, and you may need to repair your roof.
The majority of the time a roof will need repairing once you have noticed a leak. Several factors can cause a roof leak. The following are some of the more common causes of a leaking roof.
Broken roof tiles
Roof tiles can easily become damaged or completely removed in high winds or over many years. A broken roof tile will usually result in a leak to your roof. Broken roof tiles are one of the most common causes of a leaking roof, and you should address them immediately.
Missing and damaged flashing
The lead flashing that surrounds chimneys and skylights can often become compromised. This will allow rain water to enter your property if left unattended.
Loft conversions and other roofing jobs
It is not uncommon for some damage to occur during a loft installation or other routine roofing works. These issues are usually minor and may involve just a few broken tiles, which the roofer should replace on the spot.
Roof pitch
If a new roof has not been built with an adequate pitch then rain water may not flow away as intended. This will in turn cause a leak to the roof.
Sealant deteriorating
Often sealant is used to secure piping and venting. Over time this can become damaged and water will find its way in through the gaps.
Ice and weather
Ice and harsh weather conditions will cause numerous problems for a roof. This could be damage to tiles or a buildup of ice, which prevents water from flowing away from the roof through the gutters.
Cost to repair different types of roofs
What a roof is comprised of can vary greatly which can impact the roof repair cost. A felt roof can present challenges different to those created by slate so it’s important to examine how different types of roofs are repaired.
Cost to repair flat roofs
Flat roofs have been popular in residential and commercial buildings for several years. The nature of their design does unfortunately tend to lead to issues and leaks. Modern flat roofs have improved and are now built with a slight incline to reduce problems.
Fortunately, flat roof repairs are relatively inexpensive. If the flat roof is regularly leaking it may be worth considering replacing the roof entirely. A flat roof replacement will usually start at around £1000.
Cost to repair tiled roofs
Tiled roof repair costs can vary depending on the type of work required. The process of replacing damaged tiles is relatively simple and the roofer will be able to quickly replace a small amount of tiles in just one day.
Hopefully only a few of the roof tiles need replacing. In which case expect to pay around £100 – £200 per square meter.
If the felt is damaged the cost of the new felt must be included in the quote.
Cost to repair slate roofs
While offering a striking look, slate roofs can also be more costly than other types of roofs to replace. The type of slate your roof consists of will also affect the repair cost.
As a general rule of thumb, the cost to repair a slate roof is usually between £200 – £300 per square meter. If the slate is a bespoke product, then these costs are likely to be significantly higher.
Cost to repair GRP roofs
GRP roofs – or Glass Reinforced Polyester – are becoming more popular due to their easy installation and low maintenance costs.
GRP roofs are much cheaper to repair than slate roofs, usually costing between £80 – £150 per square meter.
Cost to repair felt roofs
If the felt on the roof is damaged it will need to be repaired. When tiles cover the felt, you will need to remove them before repairing the felt.
This is a labour intensive process and therefore an average felt roof repair will cost between £250 – £350 per square meter
Where to look for roof leaks
Although different roofs each have their own characteristics very often leaks and damage will occur in the same places. Therefore, we must examine these common areas so you know where to keep an eye on in the future. We shall also look at some common costs associated with each repair.
Chimneys
Most roofs will have a chimney. Chimneys are secured by flashing and masonry caulk, both of which can erode. The cost to replace chimney flashing is around £30 – £40. If the mortar is damaged the roof is likely to leak and will need repairing.
Valleys
A valley is created when two roofs meet. Roofers seal these with lead flashing, which can become damaged and require replacement.. A professional will need to replace a sheet of flashing for a valley, which will cost around £30 – £40. If there are any gaps in the flashing water will work its way into the roof space.
Flashing
Roofers use lead flashing at various points to seal roofs. The cost to repair lead flashings is usually determined by several factors.
Skylights
Several factors can cause a leak around the skylight. Usually it is a simple case of replacing the silicone sealant around the window. If the flashing has corroded, you will need to replace it. If there is a crack in the window, you may need to replace the glass.
Different types of roof repairs
As well as the type of roof you have what type of roof repair work you require is also going to affect the total cost. Some roof repair work is relatively simple and can be completed in just a few hours while other jobs take much longer and require more materials.
The following are some of the more common types of roof repair work.
Tile replacement
Cracked and damaged tiles are common on all roofs. They allow water to penetrate the protective layer of your roof and will eventually cause leaks. Remember the leak does not always appear directly below a damaged tile so the larger area will require inspection.
Lead flashing and sheeting repair
Roofers use lead flashing and sheeting to form a seal between the roof and walls, chimneys, and skylights. When damaged, water can flow freely into the roof space, so you must repair it immediately.
Guttering repair
Guttering and drainage are essential to move water away from your roof. Damaged gutters can cause water to overflow and lead to significant damage to the roof.
Facia and soffit repair
Fascias and soffits are essential in protecting your roof. Without facias and soffits, your drainage system will be compromised so you should repair them immediately.
When to fully replace a roof
Unfortunately, roof repairs sometimes are not enough and the whole roof will require replacing. The leak may have progressed into something much worse or the issues may be much more sever than just a simple leak. In such cases it may require a complete roof replacement.
- Replace Surface Materials: If the structure like rafters is in good condition you can simply replace the felt, battens and tiles.
- Full Structural Rebuild: Should those rafters be compromised a more invasive approach will be required.
A complete re-roof is generally only needed for very old properties. Usually, bends or irregularities to the pitch of the roof are the first indicators of a problem.
Government schemes for roof repairs
Fortunately, in the UK there are several grants and schemes available to help ease the financial burden associated with a roof replacement.
These are often available through local councils to both homeowners and tenants with specific needs such as a disability or low income.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme
The ECO scheme is mainly focused on improving energy efficiency but if your roof repair includes insulation improvements you may be eligible for this program.
At the time of writing this scheme offers up to £5,000 over three years for vital home repairs including roofing. In order to be considered you must usually meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Be 18 or older and receive benefits like Income Support or Pension Credit.
- Have a disability or illness with qualifying allowances.
- Be aged 60 or over.
Another option available is to contact your local council who can provide you with detailed information about available grants and eligibility.
Despite these options being available they very often do not cover the full cost of a roof replacement. We therefore recommend fully researching who will be carrying out the roof replacement and obtaining multiple quotes from reputable companies.
Other points of consideration
Find roofers with the right expertise
It is important to choose a company with the relative skills and experience to the work you require. If you have a slate roof, look for companies with previous experience of working on lead roofs in the past.
Check for recent reviews from past customers
Checking customer reviews is crucial in choosing a reputable roofing service. Always choose a company that can provide numerous customer reviews. Photo evidence of previous work they have completed is always a good qualifier.
Assess professionalism in roofers
A professional roofer should offer a free consultation and quote. They should always provide you with all the information needed to make an informed decision. Never feel pressured into accepting a quote and we recommend getting at least three comparative quotes before making any decisions.
Avoid the lowest cost estimate
While it is important to not pay more than you should for a repair repair job, it is also important to remember that cheapest quote is very rarely the best.
Choose a nearby roofing service
Very often selecting a local roofing company will be best. This has distinct advantages as it will mean any follow up services and future repairs will be much easier.
Beware of cold callers
Be cautious of roofers who make unsolicited cold calls as they are very often not very reputable.
Speak our Expert Roofers at BNL Roofing
BNL Roofing provides roof repair services in West London and surrounding counties.
If you are located within this catchment area and would like us to provide you with a free quote then please get in touch with our management team today.