How to Prevent and Fix Roof Leaks

When considering a professional, be sure to shop around. The process of receiving an estimate from a contractor is actually an education for the homeowner—a lot can be learned about the roof and its parts by listening to a contractor explain what needs to be done for repair. If a homeowner does not feel comfortable going up on the roof to be walked through the repair steps by the contractor, ask the contractor to take digital photos of the roof damage and repair areas. Resist the temptation to shop by price alone. Some states do not require licensing of roofing contractors, which can mean the market will have its share of shaky practitioners who charge far less than the competition—and deliver just that as well. Where the cost of a whole roof installation or replacement is usually calculated by square foot, a roof repair that involves replacing shingles or flashing is most often determined by material and time. Different roofing surfaces will incur different costs for repair—wood shakes and tile is more expensive than asphalt shingles, for example. Before signing a contract with a professional, be sure the company or contractor has both general liability insurance and worker’s compensation. A call to the contractor’s insurer will ascertain that the premium has been paid on time and that the company is in fact insured. A copy of the insurance certificate should be requested, too. It is a good idea to consider a roofing contractor who specializes in roofs. Check to see how long the company or contractor has been in business and if the company is local. One current trend in the roofing repair industry has seen out-of-state “storm chaser” contractors travel into storm afflicted areas to do cheap (and often inadequate) repairs on roofs. When selecting a contractor, be sure to have every repair step in writing. This should include how many layers of the roof will be removed (if necessary), what will be repaired or replaced and how much it will cost for each repair. Ask the contractor to be as specific as possible. Ask about the materials being used in the repair. Many manufacturers offer warranties on their products. In some instances, if a contractor has become certified to install certain products through a manufacturer, the manufacturer will back the labor warranty on the repair, covering installation and product defects. To assist in the process of selecting a professional roofing contractor, the NRCA offers a residential roofing contractor pre-qualification form available to download. The form is designed to be filled out by all prospective roofing contractors as a way for the homeowner to compare and narrow down the options. Roofs might be meant to last 20 years or more, but that doesn’t mean they will. Leaks can happen for any number of reasons; when gone unnoticed, they can wreak serious havoc on the interior of the home. Routine inspections of the roof and attic space add a measure of relief to the homeowner. Upon discovery of a leak, immediate action—whether through homeowner remedy or professional repair—will prevent more expensive damage in the future.

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