How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Flat Roof in Colorado?

Key Factors in Calculating Flat Roof Repair Cost

Flat roof repairs are common in the Denver metro area, but your flat roof repair cost will vary depending on the project. No two roof repair projects will be identical.

Your flat roof repair may be completed quickly based on the extent of repairs needed. For example, we can quickly install a patch over a punctured TPO or EPDM roof membrane to prevent further water penetration. Of course, with a professional roof inspection, our licensed roof inspectors will carefully assess your entire roof to determine what is necessary to repair and enable your roof to function optimally. By contrast, if there are cracks in multiple pipe flashings, loose seams, and punctures in the flat roof, the materials and time required for the repair will increase, thus increasing your flat roof repair costs.

At Metro City Roofing, we are passionate about every roofing project, whether a minor flat roof repair or complete roof replacement. Our licensed roof inspectors and repair crew pay careful attention to correctly assessing your roof’s condition, offering professional recommendations and top-quality flat roof repairs.

There is no defined flat roofing costs calculator you can apply like a roof replacement where you can simply plug in your roof’s square foot and material to get a pretty good idea of roof replacement costs. For flat roof repairs, the costs depend on each roof.

Our company average for flat roof repairs is $1,000, where prices start at $750, including materials and labor.

Our flat roof repair quote includes the following considerations.

Flat Roof Inspection Cost

At Metro City Roofing, we start every project with a free roof inspection. Thus, there is no cost for your flat roof inspection. Unlike other trades like plumbers and HVAC technicians who charge for inspections, most roofers across the Front Range in Colorado do not charge for roof inspections. Further, most roofing contractors will recommend annual roof inspections and more frequently if there is recent storm damage that may affect your roof.

There may be exceptions to every rule, however. While our standard flat roof inspection cost is $0, we must consider factors like frequency of contact and drive-time. For example, if a customer contacts us every time there is minor wind to inspect their roof to confirm the roof is still OK, we must consider a trip charge that factors in time and mileage depending on location. For example, a roof repair in Bailey, Colorado, will cost more than the same flat roof repair in Denver or Aurora, Colorado.

Few homeowners and commercial owners abuse this free inspection offer, but it can happen. This is an exception, and most roofing contractors will gladly provide a free flat roof inspection after each significant storm or annually. Alternatively, some roofing companies offer maintenance plans that include several roof inspections and minor repairs.

It is essential to catch a minor issue early to prevent much more costly flat roof repairs or a complete roof replacement.

Average Labor Cost to Repair a Flat Roof

Each roofing company will establish its hourly roof repair labor cost. Some larger roofing contractors with dedicated repair teams may charge less. In contrast, smaller roofing companies may charge a premium since minor repairs generate less revenue than a roof replacement but can still require labor and time. A roofing company cannot charge $50 for a minor repair that takes 3 hours, including drive time. While homeowners may frown at higher prices, professional roofers are experienced in identifying and solving roofing issues.

It is common for roofing companies to establish a minimum roof repair cost and then calculate a more detailed bid based on the roof’s size, the extent of repairs, materials, and time required. For example, a flat roof coating will likely cost $7.50 per square foot for labor and materials, regardless of the required days.

Contact Metro City Roofing, a professional roofing company with the necessary experience to repair your roof correctly.

Average Materials and Equipment Cost for Flat Roof Repair

Many flat roof repairs will be similar based on damage from wind, hail, age and deterioration, and mechanical impacts. Further, each flat roof material will require its own repair process. For example, repairing a TPO roof will be different than repairing an EPDM roof.

Flat roof materials prices depend on each roof.

A material like silicone is more expensive than acrylic, so a professional roofing company will reflect this in its proposal, whether in the total bid, split by materials and labor, or even detailed by the square foot.

Depending on the extent of flat roof repairs, the equipment needed will differ. A silicone roof coating applied to a small roof area will likely be applied with a brush or roller. Thus, there are minimal equipment costs – cleaner, silicone, brush or roller, and clean rags. In contrast, coating an entire Target or Walmart will likely need to be applied with a professional sprayer that costs much more than a roller. Of course, the roofer will reuse the sprayer but will gain efficiencies and speed with the sprayer.

High-quality workmanship comes with a higher price tag. Your roof does more than cover your home or building. It keeps out leaks and allows your home to be energy-efficient, keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

Hire a skilled and experienced roofing contractor like Metro City Roofing to correctly assess your roof’s condition and keep it functioning properly. Relying on a professional roofer far outweighs the benefits of saving a few dollars on a less experienced and less expensive alternative.

Common Flat Roof Problems and How Much Does It Cost to Repair Them?

Flat roof problems can result from natural disasters such as hailstorms or windstorms, extreme temperatures, mechanical accidents, or general wear and tear. The repair approach and associated flat roof repair cost are driven by the actual damage and expected time and materials. A minor flat roof repair in one or two specific areas, for example, will cost far less than more extensive damage across a large roof surface area.

So how much does it cost to fix a flat roof? The following are the typical flat roof issues and expected repair costs for each.

Leaking Flat Roof Repair Cost

Leaks on a flat roof can occur from punctures or tears from an accident like dropping a tool on the roof’s surface or hail. Loose seams primarily occur by faulty installation, extreme wind, or age without regular roof maintenance.

For minor fixes, a flat roof leak repair cost will range from $500 to $1,000. Depending on the extent of repairs needed and the size of the roof, this repair price can easily double or triple.

Leaks are typically the most significant cause for concern with a roof, specifically a flat roof where water can sit until it evaporates unless pitched correctly to the gutters. Water can enter the home and cause damage to the roof deck, insulation, ceilings, and walls if left untreated.

A typical flat roof repair for a leak is to install a patch over the affected areas or seal with silicone or similar sealant.

At Metro City Roofing, our leaking flat roof repair cost minimum is $750.

While some homeowners may choose to search for the lowest cost possible, we take pride in being professional roofers who can adequately assess and correct common flat roof issues.

Crack and Holes on a Flat Roof Repair Cost

Like a leaking roof, holes on a flat roof were likely caused by accidentally dropping something on the flat roof surface that punctured the membrane or from hailstones. Cracks and holes on a roof invite water under the roofing surface that finds its way inside your home or building to create a leak.

The flat roof repair cost will be like a leaking roof, repaired with a patch or sealant for $500 to $1,000. With Metro City Roofing, our flat roof crack repair minimum is $750 but can increase depending on the roof’s size, the extent of damages, and anticipated materials and labor needed. Small holes or cracks may be quickly patched or filled in, but larger ones will require additional materials and labor, resulting in higher repair prices.

Water Ponding on a Flat Roof Repair Cost

Ponding water results from improper drainage on the roof following a rainstorm or air conditioner leak. Even when the roof is pitched correctly, any sagging in the roof’s surface can collect water. Worse, water may become trapped on the roof if the gutters and downspouts are clogged. Ponding or pooling water on the roof’s surface increases the likelihood of water seeping into the seams or any flashing, puncture, or tear.

Due to additional labor and materials, flat roof repair costs will be more expensive than patches to address ponding water. Flat roof ponding repair is not a one-time quick repair. Beyond the more obvious gutter cleaning to ensure proper roof drainage, we typically recommend a roof coating, applying silicone or acrylic.

Unlike a TPO patch, silicone is very expensive. Materials are a critical factor in the cost. Further, labor and time play critical roles too. A professional roofer will brush the water off the roof, wait for the surface area to be dry, clean it, and then apply the flat roof coating to the roof’s surface and all flashings.

The cost to repair flat roof ponding will average $7.50 per square foot.

To coat a 1,000 square foot flat roof section, homeowners and building owners can expect to pay $7,500. A small roof section won’t dramatically reduce costs as the roofing contractor will want to coat the entire affected area.

Alligatoring / Blistering on a Flat Roof Repair Cost

Alligatoring is a term used when a flat roof begins to crack and crease due to age, resembling an alligator’s skin. When this occurs, the roof’s membrane has an increased likelihood of ripping, tearing, and leaking. Alligatoring can be unpleasant aesthetically for anyone who can see the roof’s surface from a 2nd story elevation or when walking on the roof.

Repairing this typically involves applying a TPO or EPDM patch over the affected area. If the extent of damage is too large, a roof coating is a good option, as is installing a new cover membrane.

Flat roofs may blister or bubble like alligatoring, resulting from small pockets of air or moisture trapped between the roof’s layers. These bubbles or blisters will expand and burst from heat exposure when left untreated. Once popped, water can quickly find its way under the roof’s surface. Flat roof bubble repair is the least expensive option.

Homeowners can expect to pay $500 and upwards for their flat roof repair cost. It’s challenging to provide more specifics due to the range from a minor repair patch to a more significant flat roof coating to installing a new cover sheet.

Sagging Flat Roof Repair Cost

Sagging on a roof can be troublesome. It may highlight structural damage where the roof is compromised, and a minor repair is impossible. If sagging is limited to a small section, it may be driven by improper installation or water already penetrating the roof’s surface and eroding the insulation. Trapped water can put excessive weight onto the roof’s surface too.

Frequently, the visible result of sagging on a flat roof is ponding or pooling water. Depending on the extent of damages, a skilled roofing contractor may be able to repair a small section. However, the roofer will likely need to extend the repair coverage area to address the issue satisfactorily. The roof may need new insulation, and a new membrane or a flat roof coating may be a great option. A roof coating will not fix the sagging roof, only ensure the roof’s surface is watertight from allowing water to enter the home at the sagging area.

The flat roof repair cost for a sagging roof will range from $750 to $10,000 or more for a 1,000 square foot repair section.

On the low end, the roofer will install several patches. On the higher end, the roofer will apply a silicone coating to the entire roof surface or install new insulation and a top layer of roofing membranes like TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen.

Hail and Storm Damage Flat Roof Repair Cost

Hail causes flat roof storm damage every year. Hailstones can damage the roof’s membrane and flashings that result in punctures, tears, holes, dents, and leaks. A passing hailstorm will likely affect more than a small area of the roof, and thus the flat roof repair cost will be more expensive than smaller patch repairs. In many cases, the entire flat roof will need to be replaced.

Repairing a flat roof from hail damage will be similar to a coating in cost, at approximately $7.50 per square.

If a total roof replacement is needed, the price will increase based on the material selected, insulation and building code requirements, and the complexity of the roof. A 1,000 square foot roof replacement can double in price with added insulation and a premium membrane.

Many homeowners underestimate the complexity of professionally diagnosing a roof and presenting a flat roof repair to resolve or prevent roof damage. Further, roofers are skilled and charge appropriately for time and materials. At Metro City Roofing, homeowners are sometimes surprised at the costs of professional roof repair. But with education and showing them the damage on the roof (often with photos and video) and the process to repair the roof, they better understand the flat roof repair costs.

The Average Cost for Most Popular Flat Roof Repairs

There’s no single roof issue that a homeowner can expect over a roof’s life. Thus, hiring a qualified and reputable roofing contractor to perform regular roof inspections, maintenance, and roof repairs is the best way to extend the life of your flat roof.

Flat roof repair prices depend highly on the specific issue and repair required, including the extent of damage, coverage area, expected materials, and labor. Some flat roof repairs will be quick and relatively simple, like applying silicone or a TPO patch to a single affected area. In contrast, others can certainly be more extensive and complex, requiring more time and materials.

Let’s explore the average cost to repair flat roofs.

Flat Roof Drain Repair Cost

Roof drains play an essential role in the overall flat roof design. Roof drains effectively move water off the roof and prevent ponding water which can damage the roof and cause interior leaks. Without regular inspections and roof maintenance, roof drains can clog and prevent water from exiting the roof. Professional roofing contractors know what to look for during a roof inspection and will clean clogged roof drains. Further, roofing professionals may recommend replacing the drains if they are too damaged or cracked from hail, extreme temperatures, or age.

Flat roof repair costs will depend on damages, but homeowners and building owners can expect to pay between $500 to $1,000 for flat roof drain repair.

Flat Roof Membrane Repair Cost

A flat roof membrane is the top layer of roofing material that keeps water out of your home or building. Homeowners and building owners have multiple roofing material choices, including TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen, and more.

Flat roofs are more susceptible to punctures, tears, holes, blistering, cracks, and alligatoring due to their low-slope angle than steeply pitched roofs like asphalt shingles. Damage can occur from natural elements like hail or wind, mechanical or human accidents like dropping a tool onto the flat roof membrane or simply from age and time. These issues invite water underneath the roof’s surface, where trapped water can get inside the building.

Flat roof membrane repair will range from $500 to $1,000 but can escalate quickly in price if a roof coating is required.

An average flat roof coating will cost $7.50 per square foot. Thus, a 1,000-square-foot roof coating will cost $7,500. Similarly, a membrane roof replacement cost will be slightly more expensive, and homeowners and building owners can expect to pay upwards of $10,000.

Flat Roof Seam Repair Cost

A flat roof will consist of a roofing membrane like TPO or EPDM, where rolls are seamed or sealed together. The flat roof seams can be its weakest point due to extreme wind or inferior quality. As the seams loosen and gaps exist, water can penetrate inside and become trapped, eventually finding its way inside the building and causing leaks and other damage like mold.

Flat roof seam repair will include applying adhesive or welding all seams together to create the proper seal to prevent future roof leaks.

Homeowners and building owners can expect their flat roof repair cost to range from $500 to $1,000 by a roofing professional to seal all loose seams.

Flat Roof Flashing Repair Cost

Flashing on a roof is a thin metal material installed at various roof edges, whether the roof intersects with the siding or gutters, to seal the roof’s edges and prevent water damage. Flashing metal is typically steel, copper, or aluminum. While metal flashings will usually outlast the roof when installed correctly, they may also become damaged due to a hailstorm or windstorm.

Flat roof flashing repair from a professional roofing company will include hammering loose or lifted nails and sealing all nail heads with a sealant like roofing cement or silicone.

One can expect that a roof flashing repair cost ranges from $500 to $1,000.

Flat Roof Drip Edge Repair Cost

Drip edge and gutter apron are L-shaped metal pieces positioned at the roof’s edge where the roofline meets the gutters. The gutter apron is frequently called drip edge, but the key difference is that this metal strip is installed above the gutters. Drip edge exists to ensure that water coming off the roof and into the gutters does not rot fascia wood if the gutters are clogged. The metal is strong and should last for as long as the roof but may become damaged during an extreme storm.

Flat roof drip edge repair will range from $500 to $1,000, primarily driven by a roofing contractor’s repair minimum. However, if the drip edge needs repair, it’s a strong indication that additional issues will also need repair, so your flat roof repair cost will be more reasonable.

Flat roof repairs are typically not limited to only one thing. When hiring a professional roofing company, the roof repair quote will typically include addressing multiple issues and all the necessary maintenance and tune-up items to allow your roof to perform optimally. The roof repair amount will be driven off materials and labor, factoring in a minimum of time.

A roof is more than just a covering over your head. A homeowner will likely find someone to do a job for less, but you get what you pay for. You can save money by hiring a Chuck in Truck or hiring the right roofing company.

Flat Roof Repair Cost for Different Flat Roof Materials

The roofing material, the extent of damage, and the roof’s size are top contributors to your flat roof repair cost. Homeowners and building owners have many flat roofing materials like EDPM, TPO, modified bitumen, and built-up-roofing. Different roofing materials have various life expectancies that affect pricing. And some roofing materials are easier to install and repair than others. Modified bitumen is an asphalt-based flat roof material. Ideally, repairs should be made using the same flat roof repair materials, thus an asphalt-based repair.

The following lists the most popular flat roof materials and expected repair costs.

EPDM Flat Roof Repair Cost

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is a popular flat roof material manufactured from oil and natural gas byproducts. EPDM is relatively easy to install compared to TPO but can fail faster. EPDM is typically viewed as a rubber material and is available in various thickness options and two colors, black and white. The black color absorbs heat, while the white color reflects heat.

Once installed, we recommend hiring a professional roofing company to perform regular roof inspections. EPDM roof repair cost is driven by the extent of the damage but is priced comparable to a roof coating at $7.50 per square foot. While a homeowner or building owner may only need minimal repair that may cost less than $1,000, a 1,000 square foot EPDM flat roof repair will likely cost $7,500.

TPO Flat Roof Repair Cost

TPO is a popular commercial grade flat roof material, available in multiple thicknesses. Although most installations are white, it is available in numerous colors, promoting heat reflectivity.

Like most flat roofs, a professional roofing contractor will inspect the entire roof looking for troublesome areas like ponding water or loose seams. The first step in any TPO flat roof repair is to know where the repairs are needed.

Punctures, tears, or holes caused by dropping a tool onto the roof’s surface or by hailstone impact can be effectively repaired or patched. Many roofing supply distributors sell TPO tape that can be cut into pieces and adhere to the existing TPO roof.

A minor roof patch repair will be more cost-effective than a flat roof replacement.

Loose seams can be sealed by a TPO patch or liquid adhesives like silicone or a heat weld, where the seams are bonded together.

Depending on the damages, TPO flat roof repair costs range from $500 to $1,000. But if a roofer will need to remove and replace an entire section of the TPO roof, this range will increase substantially.

Modified Bitumen Flat Roof Repair Cost

Modified bitumen is a popular, affordable asphalt-based roofing material for residential flat roofs, especially since most homeowners can find the matching color for the asphalt shingle roof. Modified bitumen is known for its resistance to extreme temperatures and UV rays but is typically at risk of damage from tree branches and hail. When installed correctly, any flat roof is not flat but rather at a low pitch that allows water drainage. Any ponding water can impact the modified bitumen roof’s life and find its way into the seams or punctures, or tears.

Like a TPO patch, most modified bitumen roofs can be repaired. This is undoubtedly cost advantageous compared to the cost of modified bitumen roof replacement. Modified bitumen requires a base and cap sheet, with the base sheet sold in 200 square foot coverage. The cost of modified bitumen roof repairs for a small project will need to include these 200 square feet in materials. The most basic modified bitumen roof repair cost will likely be $1,000, with $400 in materials and labor, plus labor and time.

The multiple roofing materials have distinct pros and cons and associated installation and flat roof repair costs. Further, manufacturers and roofing professionals highly recommend making any necessary flat roof repairs using the same material type. Thus, repair an asphalt roof with an asphalt-based repair product.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Flat Roof by Repair Method

Professional roofers have various options to consider when repairing a flat roof. The decision will be based on the roof’s size, the extent of damages or condition, and existing roofing material.

The cost of repairing a flat roof depends on the above factors, plus anticipated materials, labor, and time. Traditionally, a roof repair by a professional roofing company will range between $500 to $1,000, but this is a very generic range dictated by the above.

Material prices have continued to soar during COVID with labor and supply chain shortages.

Some materials have increased only 25% while other construction materials have increased 500%+. For example, a 32-square-foot sheet of OSB (commonly called plywood) costs $10 – $12 pre-COVID. That same sheet is currently priced at Home Depot or Lowe’s at $55, reaching $80 in 2021.

If you have any questions about material costs that impact your flat roof repair, speak with a reputable roofing contractor.

Homeowners and building owners are responsible for keeping their homes properly functioning. A flat roof is no different. Regular roof inspections, proper maintenance, and repairs will extend your roof’s life. Unfortunately, all roofs age, and there will come a time when your roof can no longer adequately be repaired, and you will need to decide when to replace it.

When to Replace a Flat Roof and When to Repair It

Homeowners and building owners can extend their roof’s useful life with regular flat roof repair. With age and a lack of routine maintenance, what may seem like a minor repair issue can quickly escalate to a need for flat roof replacement.

Roof repairs will typically start at $500 and can increase tenfold or more. But flat roof replacement costs can quickly begin at $7,500 for a 1,000 square foot roof for a commercial grade TPO or EPDM roof. Depending on your roof’s age and local building code requirements, most notably for insulation, this starting point can escalate quickly.

Before determining whether to repair or replace your flat roof, it’s best to speak with one or more professional roofing contractors and know how much longer you intend to live in or own the property. For example, if your roof is 15 years old or older, you may be best served to absorb the cost of flat roof replacement rather than patch it. By contrast, the flat roof repair cost will likely be more attractive if you intend to sell your home or building soon.

Flat Roof Maintenance to Reduce the Need for Roof Repairs

Regular roof inspections and flat roof maintenance is the best way to minimize costs and avoid more significant issues. While some homeowners may choose to inspect their own roofs, we recommend that homeowners find a trusted and professional roofing contractor on which they can rely for regular roof inspections, ideally annually and following extreme storms.

A skilled roofer will look for problematic areas like sagging sections that can create ponding water issues, flashing issues, blistering, bubbling, alligatoring, punctures, tears, holes, cracks, loose seams, and more. A reputable roofer will document all assessed flat roof repair issues with photos and video so homeowners and building owners can see exactly what’s happening on the roof.

Consider acting on your trusted roofing professional’s recommendation for your flat roof maintenance to reduce the need for more costly repairs in the future if left untreated and the issues worsen.

Ideally, your roofer inspects immediately following a recent rainstorm or snowstorm to check for ponding water before it melts. Strong winds can also blow tree branches and debris onto the roof, which could cause damage directly onto the flat roof surface or clog the drains that prevent water from exiting the roof timely. Of course, regular maintenance should include trimming trees near or above the roof, which can damage a roof, creating a puncture or tear with strong winds.

Homeowners and building owners can expect flat roof maintenance costs between $500 to $1,000, depending on the roofing contractor, the extent of damage requiring maintenance, and roof size. Unlike pitched roofs, flat roofs will collect more dirt and debris. It is essential to keep your flat roof clean, not only for aesthetic reasons but also for protective reasons. Excessive dirt and debris could lead to accelerated deterioration and damage to the roof’s membrane.

Tips on How to Save Money on Flat Roof Repair

The best way to save money on flat roof repair is to catch and address any issues early. Some roof repair costs may be inexpensive relative to other home maintenance costs, like a new air conditioner at $5,000 to $10,000. Still, flat roof repair is not something many homeowners plan and budget for.

Consider the following tips to save money:

• Schedule regular roof inspections annually or following any major storm
• Perform any recommended maintenance or repairs like sealing flashings and patching punctures or tears
• Contact more than one roofing company to understand their assessment and repair recommendations and bid
• If your flat roof is damaged due to recent storm damage, contact your insurance company to learn whether your homeowners insurance policy may cover repair costs
• Speak with your selected roofer about local building code requirements that may affect your flat roof repair costs

Flat roof repair prices continue to increase due to material price increases. Still, it’s best to save money by repairing an existing roof than replacing the entire roof.

Flat Roof Repair Cost: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Roofer

Some homeowners choose to address minor flat roof repairs themselves versus hiring a professional roofer. Depending on the extent of damage and the homeowner’s skills, this DIY route may be acceptable. For example, applying silicone sealant at flashings may be quite simple for some homeowners, which can remedy an issue. However, most homeowners are untrained at the best solution for flat roof repairs for more complex problems where there may be more than one issue identified during a professional roof inspection.

At Metro City Roofing, we recommend that homeowners and building owners consider roof repairs and maintenance like any other service issue like HVAC. Whatever the flat roof repair cost with a professional roofing contractor is typically a smart investment for many homeowners if they have researched the roofing contractor and understand the extent of flat roof repairs.

Flat Roof Repair Contractor at Affordable Price in Denver and Nearby Areas

Even with regular maintenance and repairs, a flat roof will eventually present signs of concern. Unlike pitched roofs like asphalt shingles roofs, flat roofs are more susceptible to punctures, tears, holes, cracks, loose seams, ponding water, and poor drainage.

Worse, once the roof’s top layer or membrane becomes damaged, the insulation below can become compromised, requiring more extensive and expensive flat roof repairs.

At Metro City Roofing, we are a professional flat roof repair contractor in Denver and across the Front Range in Colorado. We recommend that our customers schedule regular roof inspections and perform necessary roof repairs at least annually and following an extreme storm. Addressing a minor repair early can save tremendously and avoid a more costly complete roof replacement.

Contact the experienced team at Metro City Roofing to schedule your free inspection and flat roof repair cost estimate. We can expertly diagnose your roof’s condition and recommend the proper roof repairs to extend the life of your flat roof.