Fixing a roof isn’t like fixing a leaky faucet. You can’t just grab a wrench and call it a day. When your roof starts leaking, sagging, or shedding shingles, the cost can swing from a few hundred dollars to over $10,000 - and that’s not counting hidden damage you didn’t know about. So how do you know what’s fair? Let’s cut through the noise with real numbers, real situations, and what actually drives the price.
What’s the average cost of roof repair?
In 2026, most homeowners in Canada pay between $500 and $3,500 for a standard roof repair. That covers things like replacing a few damaged shingles, fixing flashing around chimneys, or patching a small leak. But if your roof is older, poorly maintained, or has structural issues, you could be looking at $5,000 or more. The key isn’t just the size of the hole - it’s what’s underneath it.
Here’s a breakdown of typical repair jobs and what they cost in Ontario and Quebec:
- Replacing 5-10 damaged shingles: $200-$500
- Fixing flashing around a chimney or vent: $300-$800
- Repairing a small leak (under 10 sq ft): $400-$1,200
- Replacing damaged roof decking (wood under shingles): $800-$2,500
- Full section replacement (100-300 sq ft): $2,000-$5,000
These prices include labor, materials, and disposal. But here’s the thing: roof repair costs aren’t set in stone. They change based on three things - location, materials, and how fast you act.
Why location matters more than you think
Roofing isn’t a national standard. In Burlington, Ontario, where winters are harsh and snow loads hit 30-40 pounds per square foot, roofers charge more because they need heavier-duty materials and specialized tools. A simple shingle replacement here might cost $75 per shingle. In Toronto, it’s $65. In northern Ontario, it’s $90 - and that’s before travel fees.
Why? Because roofers in colder regions need to use ice-and-water shield underlayment, reinforced decking, and metal flashing that won’t crack in -30°C weather. They also deal with more insurance claims, so their overhead is higher. If you’re in a rural area, expect to pay $100-$300 extra for travel time and fuel.
And don’t forget permits. In many municipalities, including Burlington, you need a permit for any repair that involves replacing more than 25% of the roof. That adds $150-$300 to the bill. Some contractors include it. Others don’t. Always ask.
What materials are you paying for?
Not all shingles are created equal. Asphalt fiberglass shingles - the most common type - cost $80-$120 per square (100 sq ft). But if your roof uses architectural shingles, you’re looking at $140-$200 per square. Metal roofs? $250-$400 per square. Wood shakes? $300-$500 per square.
But it’s not just the shingles. Underneath them is underlayment, which protects against ice dams and wind-driven rain. Synthetic underlayment costs $10-$15 per square. Felt paper? $5-$8. If your roofer skips the synthetic version to save money, you’re setting yourself up for water damage in three years.
Flashing matters too. Aluminum flashing lasts 10-15 years. Copper lasts 50+. If your chimney flashing is aluminum and it’s rusting? You’re not just paying to fix a leak - you’re paying to fix a mistake that should’ve been avoided.
How fast you act changes everything
Roof leaks don’t stay small. Water doesn’t just drip. It travels. It soaks into insulation. It warps floor joists. It breeds mold. A $500 repair today can turn into a $7,000 repair in six months if you wait.
I’ve seen it happen. A homeowner in Oakville noticed a small stain on her ceiling. She thought, “I’ll get to it next month.” Three months later, her attic was full of wet insulation, two ceiling joists were rotted, and the drywall had to be ripped out. The repair cost jumped from $800 to $6,200.
That’s why timing matters more than price. If you see:
- Water stains on ceilings
- Missing or curling shingles
- Granules in your gutters
- Dark spots on attic insulation
Call a roofer within 48 hours. Most reputable contractors offer free inspections. Don’t wait for rain to prove there’s a problem.
When repair isn’t enough - and replacement is cheaper
Here’s the hard truth: if your roof is over 20 years old and you’re spending more than $1,500 on repairs, you’re probably just delaying the inevitable. A full replacement in 2026 costs $8,000-$15,000 for an average 2,000 sq ft home. That sounds steep - until you realize that a 25-year-old roof with repeated repairs could cost you $12,000 in repairs over five years.
Think of it like a car. You wouldn’t keep replacing the transmission, radiator, and brakes on a 20-year-old vehicle. You’d replace it. Roofs are the same. If your roof is nearing 20 years, and you’ve had three repairs in the last five years, replacement is the smarter financial move.
And here’s something most contractors won’t tell you: some municipalities offer rebates for energy-efficient roofing. In Ontario, the Home Energy Savings Program gives up to $5,000 back if you install a cool roof (reflective shingles) or add attic insulation during replacement. That cuts your net cost by 30-40%.
Red flags that you’re being overcharged
Roofing scams are real. Here’s how to spot them:
- They show up uninvited after a storm. Storm chasers often overcharge and use substandard materials.
- They ask for 100% upfront payment. Legit contractors ask for 30-50% deposit.
- They say your roof “needs replacing” but won’t show you the damage. Ask for photos.
- They don’t have a physical address or local license. Check with the Ontario Home Builders’ Association.
- They use “special discounts” that disappear after 24 hours. Real discounts don’t expire.
Always get at least three quotes. Ask each one: “What’s included?” “What’s the warranty?” “Will you remove the old materials?” “Do you carry liability insurance?”
How to save on roof repair without cutting corners
You don’t need to pay full price. Here’s how to cut costs smartly:
- Bundle repairs. If you’re replacing shingles on the south side, ask if they can fix the east side too. Labor stays the same - materials are cheaper in bulk.
- Wait for off-season. Roofers are slower from November to March. You might get 10-15% off.
- Ask about manufacturer warranties. Many shingle brands offer 25-50 year warranties. If your roof is under warranty, you might get free labor.
- Check with your insurance. If damage was caused by wind, hail, or ice dams, your homeowner’s policy may cover it.
One homeowner in Hamilton saved $2,100 by filing an insurance claim after a hailstorm. Her roof had 18 damaged shingles - the roofer said it was “minor.” The insurance adjuster found 72 damaged shingles and covered the full replacement.
What to expect during the repair
A professional repair takes 1-3 days. You’ll see:
- Drop cloths to protect your yard and driveway
- A dumpster for old shingles and debris
- Workers wearing safety harnesses and using ladder stabilizers
- A final inspection with photos of the repaired area
They should leave your property cleaner than they found it. If they don’t, that’s a red flag.
After the job, get a written warranty. It should say:
- What’s covered (materials, labor, leaks)
- How long it lasts (minimum 2 years for labor, 10+ for materials)
- Who to call if it fails
And keep all receipts. You’ll need them if you sell your home.
Final advice: Don’t guess - get a real inspection
Roof repair costs vary because every roof is different. But you don’t need to guess. Get a certified inspector. Look for someone with RCI (Roof Consultants Institute) certification or a NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association) license. They’ll use infrared cameras to find hidden moisture, measure deck rot, and tell you exactly what’s failing - not what they think you need.
A good inspection costs $200-$400. It’s not a repair - it’s insurance. For the price of a new set of tires, you’ll know exactly what your roof needs - and how much it’ll cost. No surprises. No scams. Just facts.
