It is the question we get asked more than any other. Should I fix this roof, or is it time for a new one?
The honest answer depends on three things we look at on every inspection. How old the roof is, how much of it is damaged, and whether the problem keeps coming back. Here is how we think it through, with real Ottawa pricing so you can do the math yourself.
When a repair is the right call
Most roofs we get called out to do not need replacing. If the damage is in one spot and the rest of the roof is healthy, a repair is almost always the better value.
A repair usually makes sense when you have a few shingles lifted or torn off after a windstorm, a leak around one vent, chimney or skylight where the flashing or a vent boot has failed, or minor ice dam damage along one section of the eaves. The same goes for a roof that is still well within its lifespan with plenty of granules left on the shingles.
Our roof repairs start at $350 for small jobs like replacing a few shingles or resealing a vent. Flashing work, valley repairs and sections of soft decking cost more, and we give you a firm price once we have been up on the roof.
If water is coming in right now, read what to do if your roof is leaking first, then call us.
When it is time to replace the roof
Replacement starts to win when the problem is the whole roof, not one spot. These are the signs we look for.
- The shingles are 20 years old or more, or they are curling, cracking or losing granules across most of the roof
- You have had leaks in more than one area, or the same leak keeps coming back after repairs
- The roof deck feels soft or spongy, or you can see sagging
- There are already two layers of shingles on the roof
- Damage covers a large part of the roof, like after a bad hail or wind storm
Asphalt shingle roofs in Ottawa usually last somewhere between 15 and 25 years. Our winters, freeze-thaw cycles and summer heat are hard on them, and poor attic ventilation can shorten that even more. Our roof lifespan guide goes through how long each material lasts here.
What repair and replacement cost in Ottawa
Repairs start at $350. Most small repairs land in the hundreds, and bigger jobs involving flashing, decking or several problem areas can run into the low thousands.
A full asphalt shingle replacement runs about $4 to $6 per square foot of roof. As a rough example, a roof with 2,000 square feet of surface would come in around $8,000 to $12,000. Where you land in that range depends on
- the pitch of the roof, since steep roofs take longer and need more safety equipment
- how many layers have to come off
- how much of the roof deck needs replacing once the old shingles are off
- chimneys, skylights and valleys that need new flashing
- the shingle line you choose and whether you go with a registered warranty
Metal roofing costs more up front but lasts much longer. Our guide to the different types of roofing in Ottawa compares the options.
A simple way to think about it. If repairs over the next few years are going to add up to a big chunk of what a new roof costs, or the roof is near the end of its life anyway, you are usually better off putting that money toward replacement.
How the warranty changes the decision
A repair fixes one problem. A new roof resets the clock and comes with real coverage.
Every roof we install comes with our own 20-year workmanship warranty. On CertainTeed shingle roofs we can also register a 4-Star warranty, which covers materials, tear-off and labour for 50 years non-prorated if the shingles fail. The 5-Star keeps that and adds 25 years on workmanship. It requires replacing all the flashings so it costs more, but it is the strongest coverage you can get on a shingle roof. Our roofing warranty page explains each level.
If you are planning to stay in the home for a long time, that coverage is a big part of why replacement can be the better value even when a repair would technically work.
What about replacing in winter?
If the roof is failing, you do not have to wait until spring. Shingle roofs can be replaced in cold weather with the right methods, although very cold or stormy days slow things down. We go through the pros and cons in our article on replacing a roof during winter in Ottawa.
Get a straight answer on your roof
The fastest way to know is to have someone look at it. A basic roof inspection from us is free, and a detailed written report with photos starts at $199. We will tell you honestly whether a repair will hold or whether you are throwing money at a roof that needs replacing.
If it is time for a new roof, our roof replacement team can walk you through materials, timing and warranty options. You can also book a free estimate online.
