Kansas City is no stranger to severe weather, and when major storms pass through, your roof can become damaged. High winds, hail, heavy rain, snow, and ice can all impact your roof and cause it trouble. Mature trees can topple over and puncture your roofing, allowing water to seep through and soak your drywall, carpeting, and ceiling.
If roofing problems are left unaddressed after a storm, the cost to repair your roof could skyrocket if your warranty or insurance don’t cover the problem. Being prompt to repair roof issues with a reputable roofing company can prevent bigger problems and keep your cost down on repairs.
If water has seeped into your home, swift steps need to be taken to stop the leak and prevent further damage like mold and mildew.
If your home roofing has more subtle damage after a storm, it should show up with a simple inspection you can do yourself by crossing your street and looking at your roof through binoculars. Look for missing shingles or broken gutters. Inside your home, take a look at the ceilings on the top floor of your home to see if there are any water stains or other signs of moisture damage.
Primary Factors that Influence Roof Repair Cost after a Storm
1. Roofing materials
The materials are your biggest cost contributor in repairing your roof after a storm. This includes visible elements you see such as shingles or tiles, but also materials used to waterproof and protect your roof deck, cover ridges and vents, and more. Materials vary in cost based on what type of roofing you have, how much damage occurred, and how long it’s been since the severe storm occurred. Roofing materials vary in price:
Asphalt shingles—Prices differ on this shingle type based on your specific need for 3-tab asphalt shingles (the most cost effective) or architectural and dimensional asphalt shingles (the more luxurious type).
Metal roofing—These highly durable roofs rarely get damaged by storms. As the longest lasting roofing material choice, an investment is made when these are installed, and the benefits go on for decades. If there is occasional damage from a storm, it’s typically only cosmetic and won’t compromise your roof’s integrity—so you will likely bypass the major roof problems your neighbors may experience from storms.
Cedar/wood shingles—Repair costs depend on the kind of wood and how readily accessible it is in your region of the country. Specialized installation professionals are needed to install this type of shingle. At Christian Brothers Roofing, we will make repairs for wood shake roofing, but we really recommend a full replacement to asphalt or metal roofing.
2. Roof components
Your roof’s size and the complexity of its design will all impact the overall cost of roof repairs or replacement. If your roof has a steep pitch, it will take more labor and possibly more materials than a traditional roof, which will contribute to the cost for roof repairs or replacement after a storm.
Roof design elements that require more labor and impact the overall cost include:
- Dormers
- Roof valleys
- Skylights
- A steep pitch
- A chimney
3. Labor for roof repairs
Roofing contractors will either charge by the hour or by the job, and prices can vary even within the same city. Factors that influence labor needed include:
- The extent of your roof damage
- Number of workers needed to repair your roof after a storm
- The time it takes to complete your roof repair
- Customary hourly rates in your area
4. Insurance
Insurance claims are important to initiate after your roof has been damaged by a storm. Contact your insurance company immediately if you suspect roof damage. Your insurance company may pay for all or most of the roof repair after a storm. If their inspection results indicate you need a new roof, your cost should be your pre-established deductible.
Here are some things to keep in mind about insurance coverage for your roof repair or replacement:
- Insurance coverage varies from roof to roof
- Your roof’s age will impact coverage
- Your roof’s size will contribute to the results
- The amount of damage affects the equation
- Insurance typically covers damage from severe weather, fire, or vandalism
- Note: problems due to poor installation are not typically covered by insurance companies
5. Roof warranty
Your roof’s warranty may help cover things your insurance doesn’t cover on roof repair or replacement after a storm. The reason your roof needs to be repaired will determine how your cost for repair is covered.
- Roof warranties often cover repairs needed due to manufacturer defects that cause the roof to break down sooner than it should.
6. Permits
When roof repairs require extensive work after a storm, a permit may be needed in your area to do the work. Prices for permits can vary. Cost can be based on the size of the repair or simply be a flat rate fee that’s customary for your region.
When it’s time for a new roof, there are a variety of ways to get financing for your roof replacement.
A Reliable Storm Damage and Roof Repair Company
Excluding severe storm damage, many roofing problems aren’t the result of materials, but rather the result of poor installation. It’s vital you hire a reputable roofing contractor with a track record of proven results.
At Christian Brothers Roofing, we take the stress out of the roof installation process. If you need roof repairs, we get them done promptly and thoroughly. If your home requires a new roof, we keep you informed throughout our inspection, roof removal, repairs, ice dam protection, roof paper and drip edge installation, flashing, shingle, and ridge vent installation—and we leave a clean jobsite daily.
We’re here for your before, during, and after your roof installation or storm repairs. We’ll give you tips on dealing with insurance claims to make sure you get the help you need when you need it. We’ll also help you understand how to avoid roof damage from pests like squirrels.
When storms hit, contact us for your roof repair needs.
