ROOFING
How to Estimate a Roof Repair
Contractor method for estimating roof repairs: area, repair type, layers and the disposal line.
Roof repair bids fail on the repair type and the disposal. The area is easy math; a leak patch, a section and a partial re-roof are very different jobs that grow the quote fast.
THE SHORT ANSWER
How do you estimate a roof repair?
Measure the repair area, choose the type and apply the $500 minimum for a small visit, then add layer stripping and disposal. A 100 sq ft leak repair with disposal runs about $680.
Measure the repair area
Measure the area to repair in sq ft and note the pitch. A steep roof adds labor and safety cost. Count the layers you'll strip — two layers add 25%.
- Measure the damaged area, not the whole roof
- Note the roof pitch and accessibility
- Check how many layers are already on
- Inspect flashing and valley condition
Pick the repair type
A small leak patch runs ~$4/sq ft, a roof section ~$5.50 and a partial re-roof ~$6.50, materials and labor included. Confirm the scope on the roof, never from the listing.
Price the layers and disposal
Stripping two layers adds 25% to the labor. Hauling and disposing of the old material adds ~$180 for a typical repair. Use the Roof Repair Cost Calculator to build the full quote.
Check the total
Your installed total should land within 10% of the calculator output before markup. Add flashing and sealant as a separate line if the repair touches a valley or chimney.