HOW DOES A ROOF LEAK HAPPEN?
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O U R Q U A L I F I C A T I O N S
Homeowners in Connecticut love the idea of "having a roof over their head" but when your roof is leaking or showing signs of damage, that roof over your head isn't so comforting. In fact, it should raise a lot of valid fears and concerns about the stability and safety of your home, so whenever you have doubts about the quality of your roof, follow your gut and investigate those misgivings.
Have a leaky roof? Get help today by calling 1-203-527-5338. Storm damage may qualify you for an insurance claim.
How Does a Roof Leak Happen?
Because of its constant exposure to outside elements, your roof can spout leaks from a variety of reasons. Here are the ten most common reasons why a roof leak may happen:
As you can see from this list of ten reasons why a roof leak may occur, only a few items are completely beyond your control, thanks to Mother Nature. But many of the possible reasons why your roof may begin to leak are easily prevented by using common sense and regularly inspecting your rooftops (without tramping all over them!).
However, once in a while, you will encounter a roof leak, so knowing how to repair or stop a roof link should also be in your homeowner's black book of home maintenance tips.
How to Repair or Stop a Roof Leak
Not all roof repairs or leak stoppages require bringing in a professional roofer. We have provided you with three roof repair or leak stopping tasks which you can perform on your own, using basic tools. As always, be certain to follow all safety procedures when working on your rooftop, beginning with a stable ladder which extends fully to your roof for easy access.
Repair Tip #1: Fix Asphalt Shingles
The best way to determine if there is a leak among your asphalt shingles is to inspect your ceilings (or attic). If you see water damage, then there is a leak in your asphalt shingles. Please note that if your roof is slanted, it's likely that the leak may occur somewhere above where the water damage appears.
Next, inspect your roof and find where the shingles are damaged (possibly cracked or curled) or missing. If there are just a few shingles requiring replacement, you can do this on your own. However, if a visible patch is damaged, it's probably time for a roof replacement.
Perform your repairs as follows:
Repair Tip #2: Replace Damaged Wood Shakes
Just like you would with shingle roofs, check your ceilings (or attic) for water stains. Once you identify the leak, look for the damage on the exterior corresponding to the identified interior stain.
Since wood shakes are made of wood instead of asphalt, you will follow a similar procedure to repair or replace your wood shakes. First, carefully split damaged wood shakes with a hammer and chisel; this makes them easier to remove using a pair of pliers.
Next, use a hacksaw to cut off nails which secured the old shake. Finally, trim the new shake so it will snugly slide into the slot made by removing the old shake. Finally, hammer the shake in with two galvanized nails, and cover the nail heads with roofing cement for that last layer of protection.
Repair Tip #3: Seal Leaky Joints
Any spots on the roof where two or more surfaces are joining should be carefully inspected to ensure they are property sealed against leaks. Keep your eye out for small gaps (less than 1/4" across) in any of these junctions; when found, treat them immediately with caulk or roof sealant. Also, any loose flashing can usually be fixed with a bead of roof cement, when is then pressed back into place.
For larger pieces of flashing needing repair, first pry off the portions of unsound flashing. Measure the area you need to cover and, using tin snips, cut out a new section of flashing which will overlap the replacement areas by at least 4 inches on each side. Seal with roof cement or caulk and, if there are nail holes in the edge of the flashing, hammer in galvanized nails.
For more extensive roof repair or sealing, it's time to call in a professional roofer to ensure the job is done thoroughly and completely.
Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Roof Leaks in Connecticut?
Insurance companies are highly aware of the possible damages a roof can experience, as well as the costs incurred to repair it. Because of this, most insurance policies do not cover what is considered normal wear and tear of the roof of a home. Some policies will have a clause which covers common perils, which are defined as fire, wind, or hail damage. This can even cover your roof if the neighbor's tree collapses and crashed onto your roof.
Be sure to check your policy carefully though, as some homeowners opt out of wind or hail damage through an exclusion which saves them money on their policy. Under such conditions, certain perils are no longer covered.
As you can see, for Connecticut residents, you may or may not be covered for certain roof leaks. You should check with your insurance agent and carefully review your homeowners policy as it concerns coverage for your roof. We always recommend that you do not save money by adding a wind or hail damage exclusion to your policy; the modest savings you experience can be wiped out by one damaging storm!
What Is the Cost of a Roof Leak Repair?
According to Home Advisor, the average cost of a roof leak repair is $857, with most homeowners paying between $351 and $1,387 for their repair. This includes about $150 to $400 in labor costs, at average hourly rates of between $45 to $75.
Keep in mind that you can manage many minor repairs and avoid other repairs through regular care and maintenance of your roof. This means with a little luck and a good amount of attention you can likely avoid any roof repair bills and enjoy a sturdy, waterproofed overhead shelter for your home and its belongings for years to come.
Knowing When to Call a Contractor
There are certain circumstances when it's all too clear you need to bring in a professional roofing contractor. This would include severe damage from extreme weather conditions or wear-and-tear which goes well beyond a simple patch up.
While such situations are unfortunate, they can and will occur in time. What is fortunate for Connecticut homeowners is having access to Armor Shield, Connecticut's Restoration Experts. We are available 24/7, for emergencies and normal servicing; contact us today for any of your roofing needs.
