My Roof is Leaking! What Should I Do?

Water dripping from your ceiling, shingles scattered in the yard, or a damp smell in your attic? Roof leaks are stressful for any property owner. The first question most people ask is: Do I patch the problem, or do I invest in a full roof replacement?

The answer depends on the age of your roof, the type of material, the extent of damage, and your long-term goals for the property. Let’s break it down.

Roof Repair: When a Patch Is Enough

Localized damage: A few missing shingles, small flashing issues, or an isolated leak can usually be repaired without replacing the entire roof.
Cost-effective option: Most minor roof repairs fall between $300–$1,200, depending on the material and severity.
Extended lifespan: Repairs can buy you 5–10 more years of use if your roof is otherwise in good condition.
Warranty note: Repairs often come with limited or no warranty. Always ask what’s covered before agreeing.

How Contractors Find the Source of a Leak

A proper repair starts with identifying the exact source of the leak, which isn’t always obvious. Contractors begin with an exterior inspection, checking shingles, flashing, and roof penetrations. If the source isn’t visible from above, the attic is inspected for signs like water stains, mold spots, or black streaks. This step ensures repairs target the actual problem, not just the symptoms.

Why DIY Fixes Can Backfire

While some homeowners are tempted to patch leaks themselves, professional roofers bring the right materials (shingles, underlayment, sealants, and safety gear) to handle the repair efficiently. Using the wrong materials or overlooking underlying issues can void warranties and lead to more leaks.

Roof Replacement: When It’s the Smarter Investment

Age factor: If your roof is 15–25 years old (depending on material), replacing it may be more cost-effective than patching problems year after year.
Extensive damage: Widespread leaks, storm damage, or sagging areas often require a full replacement.
Long-term value: A new roof improves curb appeal, resale value, and energy efficiency.
Warranty advantage: New roofs often come with 10–30 years of warranty protection. At Legion Roofing, every roof replacement includes a warranty.

Typical replacement costs:

Asphalt shingles: $8,000–$15,000 for an average home
Metal roofing: $18,000–$30,000, with lifespans of 40–70 years
Tile roofing: $20,000+, but highly durable and weather-resistant

Repair vs. Replace by Roof Type

Asphalt shingles: If only a few shingles are missing, repair may work. But once granules are worn off or leaks spread, replacement is usually the smarter option.
Metal roofing: Highly durable – small punctures or seam issues can often be repaired. Replacement is only needed after major storm damage or corrosion.
Tile roofing: Individual cracked tiles can be swapped out, but widespread underlayment failure usually means replacement.
Flat & commercial roofs (TPO, EPDM, Modified Bitumen): Small punctures or membrane separations can be repaired. However, if pooling water or large areas of deterioration exist, replacement is more cost-effective.

When Replacing Can Be Cheaper Than Repairing

It may sound counterintuitive, but sometimes insurance coverage makes a replacement cheaper than ongoing repairs. In storm-heavy regions like Florida, wind and hail damage may qualify for full replacement under your policy. In that case, the only cost you face is your deductible.

One more warning sign: if your roof has already been repaired multiple times, new leaks are more likely to appear elsewhere. In those cases, patching again is just delaying the inevitable — and usually costs more in the long run.

At Legion Roofing, we help customers file claims, document damage, and work directly with adjusters to maximize coverage.

Maintenance: The Overlooked Money Saver

Routine maintenance can add years to your roof’s life:

Schedule inspections at least once a year (and after major storms).
Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup.
Trim overhanging trees to reduce debris and shingle damage.
Address small leaks immediately – water spreads faster than you think.

If you’re in the North Florida area and dealing with roof leaks, call Legion Roofing and Construction for a free inspection. We’ll give you honest answers, clear photos of the damage, and a recommendation tailored to your home or business.

Call us today or fill out our contact form. Every job, big or small, comes with a workmanship warranty.

FAQs Property Owners Ask

How do I know if I need a roof repair or replacement?

Get a professional inspection. A contractor can show you photos, explain the damage, and give you options. Always get at least two opinions.

How long does a roof repair last?

Depending on the material, small repairs can last 5–10 years. But if the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, that number drops.

How long does a roof replacement take?

Most residential roofs are replaced in 1–3 days, while large commercial projects may take a week or more.

Will insurance cover my roof replacement?

It depends on your policy and the cause of damage. Storm and hail damage are often covered, while normal wear and tear isn’t.

What signs should I look for before calling a roofer?

Water stains on ceilings, missing or curled shingles, sagging rooflines, excessive granules in gutters, or higher energy bills.

What’s the biggest mistake homeowners make?

Waiting too long. Small leaks can lead to mold, structural damage, and higher repair bills.