A heavy rainstorm just passed last night in Clinton Township MI. When you’ve gone to inspect your roof the next morning, you’ve seen some asphalt shingles out of order. Some were even blown away due to the severe wind. You conclude that you need a minor roof repair service. However, further online research confused you further. Is there such a thing as minor roof repair?

All types of roofs have respective shortcomings that maintenance can resolve. In turn, it effectively prolongs their lifespan and performance. There is such a thing as minor roof repair

What Counts as a Minor Roof Repair?

These are common minor roof problems any roofer aside from Miller’s Home Improvements can attest to:

  • Roof leaks and moisture

  • Blow-offs, tenting, reduces wing uplift resistance, and billowing

  • Poor installation and unsatisfactory workmanship

  • Lack of maintenance

  • Ponding water

  • Punctures and the addition of penetrations post installations

  • Safety

  • Improper repairs

Within our experience as reputable roofers in Clinton Township, we can agree that these are relatively minor roof problems. It is true that roofing maintenance can these roofing issues at an affordable rate. However, if you’ve had roof leaks, ponding, or punctures for quite some time, you require more than just minor roof repairs.

These issues might seem negligible and something you can put off for later, but they can evolve into bigger problems. For example, you can use buckets to contain roof leaks and moisture every time it rains. What most homeowners do not see is the leak holes becoming bigger each time it rains and as water passes through it.

How Much Does It Cost?

Thumbtack reports that the average price for minor roof repair is $220-$350 excluding material prices. While minor problems often require less time to address, it’s possible some “minor” issues have become more problematic. In turn, it leads to more labor time on behalf of contractors.

In addition to its estimate, Thumback even lists down minor roof repair costs per material type. This list is handy especially if you’re trying to estimate how much you’re going to spend if you’re planning to have minor repairs for clay tiles, metal roofs, and other roofing materials.

Roof Repair Costs by Material Type

The cost of the roof shingles or tiles directly affects the cost of roof repair. Common roofing materials include:

Asphalt shingles: $5 to $10 per square foot to repair. Typically the least expensive type of roofing material, with 3-tab shingles costing less than dimensional or architectural shingles. Because asphalt shingles are made with petroleum, they may become more expensive if oil prices increase.

Cedar or other wood shingles: May be more expensive than asphalt shingles, depending on the type of wood.

Clay tiles: More expensive than asphalt shingles, clay and terracotta tiles are common in the Southwestern states and coastal communities. They are very durable, especially against the salt and sand found in coastal areas, and can withstand high winds.

Slate tiles: Roughly $15 per square foot to repair. Slate roofs often carry warranties of 30 years or longer.

Metal roofs: $5 to $15 per square foot to repair loose seams or damaged fasteners on a metal roof (Source)

Should You Just Go For Major Repairs or a Full-On Roof Replacement?

A minor roof repair is easy to spot. However, it can be difficult to separate the symptoms that indicate your roof requires major repairs or a full on roof replacement.

Major repairs involve a huge part of your roofing material already in a state of disrepair. For example, about three or more panels of rusting metal roof is due for major repairs. Often, this involves using life-prolonging spray polyurethane foam or acrylic roof coating. However, if the percentage of rusted roof is too high, then your trusted roofing contractor may decide to opt for a full-on roof repair.

Using a contractor is a time and money-saving option to know whether you need repairs or replacement for your roof. Most reputable roofers provide roof inspections free of charge.

Angie’s List has a great list of symptoms that may indicate you definitely need a new roof.

1. Roof age

How old is your existing asphalt shingle roof? Most experts agree that a typical roof will last between 20 and 25 years. It also depends on whether the old roof was removed and you only have one layer of shingles, and if it is properly ventilated. If the roof was installed over another layer or several layers and it is older than 20 years, chances are you need a new roof.

2. Shingles curling and buckling

Shingles that are curled or buckling are another sign that you may need a new roof. Look at the slopes of your home that get direct sunlight and if you notice the shingles are curling and losing granules, it could mean the shingles are past their life expectancy. There could also be a possibility that the roof is defective. Contact a licensed roofing contractor to see if you could be eligible for reimbursement.

3. Roof valleys

If your roof shingles are falling apart or missing in this area, it’s a definite sign you need a new roof. Valleys are one of the most important areas of your roof. Snow and rain flow through valleys and into gutters. If the valley is compromised, you could be susceptible to roof leaks.

4. Missing shingles

These are another sign your roof could be failing. Check to see if all of the shingle “tabs” are intact. (Source)

Remember, a minor roof repair might not be what your roof needs. It’s possible major repairs or a full-on replacement is necessary. Call on Miller’s Home Improvement and get your roofing needs sorted in no time. Contact us today!