Plain answers for homeowners about roof leaks, storm damage and repairs, with a source for every fact and real homeowner voices.
Water is coming in, or was, and you want to know where from and who should fix it.
Repair or replace is on the table.
Flashing, vents, valleys, decking: a problem often starts at one part.
The trouble shows up inside: a stain, a sagging patch, water by a light, or mold.
You are about to pay someone to work on your roof.
A storm just passed and you are not sure what it did to your roof.
Your insurer is involved, or might be.
Hail hit your area and the roof may look fine from below.
You want to know what shape the roof is in.
Something needs attention now: a hole, a fallen tree, or water pouring in.
Most new roofs are designed for about 20 years of useful service; a metal roof can last up to 50 years or more. A design figure is not an expiry date.
Contain and dry: catch the drip, move belongings away, and dry wet areas and items within 24-48 hours. Look in the attic for stains and damp insulation.
A drip edge is a piece of sheet metal flashing along the roof edge. Its lower lip sticks outward to control the direction of dripping water.
Rake snow off the eave from the ground, never from a ladder, since using a rake or shovel on a ladder greatly increases the risk of falling.
Look from the ground at the A/C unit, gutters, metal flashing, downspouts and patio furniture for impact dents.
Replacing a few damaged shingles is a standard repair, but unless you are experienced, hire a professional roofer for this work.