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Roof repair vs. replacement: how to decide

The questions that decide it, what each option costs in Columbus, and a simple rule of thumb.

The short version

  • Angi's Columbus averages: about $924 for a repair, about $9,000 for a replacement.
  • Age, how widespread the damage is and repeat leaks decide most cases.
  • Rule of thumb: if repairs pass a quarter to a third of a new roof, consider replacing.
  • Storm damage? Check insurance before deciding.

What each costs in Columbus

Angi's Columbus data puts the average roof repair at about $924, with most between roughly $300 and $1,600. Hail damage repairs run higher, about $700 to $4,000. A full replacement averages about $9,000, with most between roughly $5,700 and $12,800, and larger homes cost more.

Five questions that decide it

  1. How old is the roof? InterNACHI estimates about 20 years for 3-tab shingles and about 30 for architectural shingles. Money spent repairing a roof near the end of its life doesn't go far.
  2. How widespread is the damage? A few missing shingles or one bad pipe boot is a repair. Damage across several slopes points to replacement.
  3. Does it keep leaking? If you've repaired the same roof several times, the problem is usually the roof, not the patch.
  4. What's under it? Soft spots and rotted decking mean the damage has spread below the shingles.
  5. Will a repair match? Shingle colors and styles get discontinued. On an older roof, a patch may stand out.

A simple rule of thumb

If repairs would cost more than about a quarter to a third of a new roof, or the roof is past about 20 years old, replacement usually makes more sense. It's a guideline, not a rule, and your plans matter. If you're selling next year, a good repair may be enough. If you're staying 15 years, a new roof usually wins.

Don't forget insurance

If the damage came from hail or wind, your homeowners insurance may pay for repairs or even a full replacement, minus your deductible. Get the damage inspected and documented before you decide. How roof insurance works in Ohio.

Get both answers

An honest roofer will tell you when a repair is enough. We'll look at the roof, price the repair, and if replacement makes more sense, show you why. Book a free inspection or get a replacement estimate.

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