Factors that Influence the Cost of a Roof Repair in the UK
No one wants to have a damaged roof. Therefore, because it is your first line of defence against the elements, it is crucial to keep your roof in tip-top shape to ensure that your loved ones and personal possessions are well-protected. This is why it is so important that you act quickly if you notice any signs of leaks, sagging or other common roof problems.
If you do spot a problem, then in all likelihood the first thing that will come to mind is the cost of a roof repair in the UK. Depending on the size and extent of the damage, the cost of the repair work could be anything from £150 to £1100. Certain factors can also affect the overall cost of your roofing project. Here are just a few.
1. Roof material and size
The material used on your roof will have a significant bearing on the total repair costs. Every material is priced differently. For example, here are some estimated prices of common roofing materials per square metre based on an average three-bedroom semi-detached residential property with a gable roof:
- Clay tiles – £125
- Thatch – £100
- Slate – £75
- Felt – £40
- Concrete – £35
The roof’s size may also affect the overall cost. For instance, if a significant portion of the roof needs to be repaired, you may have to purchase more supplies and materials. However, if you are just replacing a handful of tiles or patching up a few holes here and there, you won’t need to spend much on labour and materials.
2. Scaffolding
If it is difficult to access your roof, scaffolding may be required. In this case, repairing a few tiles or slates may cost you £400–£500. This reflects the additional labour and time needed to erect the scaffold.
3. Type of repair
The cost of a roof repair in the UK will also depend on the type of repair involved. Similar to the roofing materials mentioned above, the prices can vary dramatically.
a. Tile replacement
Replacing damaged or missing tiles is perhaps the simplest type of repair work and will only take a few hours to complete. On average, the cost will be approximately £200 as professional roofers will only need a few tiles/slates and cement for this type of job.
b. Tiled roof repair
The cost of fixing a tiled roof will often depend on the extent of the damage. For example, if the repair work entails replacing a couple of tiles, it may cost no more than £200. However, if the work is more complicated, you will probably have to pay much more.
c. Flat roof repair
Fixing a flat roof usually costs several hundred pounds. However, if it has been repaired several times before, it may be advisable to replace the entire roof. Flat roofs become more susceptible to water leaks as they get older. Replacing the roof in its entirety will give you added protection and greater value for your money.
d. Flashing repair
If the flashing is missing on your chimney or around your skylight, you must act quickly as this can cause rainwater to seep between your roof tiles and chimney stack and then into your property. It usually costs around £100–£200 to repair one metre of damaged flashing.
e. Roof Repair Northampton
The cost of a roof repair often depends on the cause of the damage. For instance, if your roof is sagging due to extra weight, the roofers will have to install support joists or rafters. Depending on the number of support joists needed, the repair work could cost you around £1,000–£2,000.
Meanwhile, if the sagging is due to waterlogging, you will probably have to replace the entire roof. This could cost you between £5,000 and £12,000 depending on the size of your home.
4. Cost of labour
It is always prudent to hire professional roofers, such as Kingsley Roofing Services, to repair your roof. Not only will this be quicker, but it will also be safer and more cost-effective. In most cases, professional roofers charge their clients per project rather than by the hour. For this reason, it’s best to ask them for a quote or estimate so you will have an idea of the overall cost of using their services.
5. Timing of the repairs
The cost of a roof repair in the UK is generally lower in the autumn and winter months as most roofers are not busy at this time of the year. However, this also carries with it some risk as bad weather may cause delays to your roofing project. This may increase the time needed to finish the repairs which could in turn result in higher costs.
Other Factors
Besides the issues discussed above, there are also other factors that could affect the total cost of your roof repairs:
- How accessible your roof is.
- How difficult it is to source replacement materials.
- Whether the tiles are cemented in place.
- Whether your property is listed or located in a conservation site. If this is the case, the roofer may need to procure replacement tiles from architectural salvage yards to ensure a good match.
Always Do Your Research
Carrying out some research before getting your roof repaired will undoubtedly be beneficial. It will enable you to plan your roofing project prudently and avoid spending more money than you should. Remember, if you are planning to hire a roofer, make sure you ask them for a quote or estimate. This will help you determine precisely what you are paying for when you book their services.
If you are looking for high-quality roof repairs, Kingsley Roofing Services will only be too happy to help. We serve the Northampton area and beyond, providing high-quality commercial and residential roofing services to local property owners. Contact us today so we can discuss how we can be of assistance.