Quick Answer
Okay, so here's the quick version. You got one or two shingles that blew off in a storm? Yeah, you can probably handle that yourself for under $100 if you're comfortable on a ladder. It's a simple fix. But the second you see water stains on your ceiling, big patches of damage, or anything that looks like the roof is sagging, just stop. Don't be a hero. Your roof is not the place to learn a new skill. Messing it up can lead to thousands in water damage, and a fall is no joke. When in doubt, call a pro.
Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Start inside. Go into the attic with a flashlight and look for water stains, mold, or wet insulation directly above the area of the indoor leak.
Step 2
Walk around the outside of your house. Use binoculars to scan the entire roof from the ground for missing shingles, damage, or loose flashing around chimneys and vents.
Step 3
Check your gutters and downspouts. If they're clogged with debris, that could be the source of water backing up under the roof edge.
Step 4
If you can do so safely on a low-slope, one-story roof, use a sturdy ladder to inspect the surface up close for cracked sealant, popped nails, or damage you couldn't see from the ground.
Step 5
To pinpoint a stubborn leak, have a helper use a garden hose on the roof while you watch from the attic. Start low and work up until you see the drip. This confirms the entry point.
Step 6
Assess the overall age and condition. If the whole roof looks worn and it's over 20 years old, a small repair might just be a temporary fix for a roof that needs replacing.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
Replacing a few missing shingles | $20-100 | $250-450 | 1-2 hours |
Applying roof sealant to cracks/vents | $10-30 | $150-400 | 30 mins |
Cleaning gutters and downspouts | $0-20 | $150-300 | 2-4 hours |
Patching small holes with roofing cement | $30-70 | $300-600 | 1-2 hours |
When to Call a Professional Roofing
- The roof is on a two-story building or has a steep pitch.
- You find any signs of sagging, soft, or spongy spots, which indicate rotted wood.
- The damage covers a large area (more than just a few shingles).
- The repair involves metal flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights.
- You are unsure of the leak's source or how to fix it properly.
- The damage might be covered by your homeowner's insurance, as a pro can help navigate the claims process.
Prevention Tips
- Clean your gutters and downspouts in the spring and fall to make sure water can drain properly.
- Trim any tree branches that hang over or touch your roof to prevent falling limbs and debris buildup.
- Do a visual inspection from the ground after every major storm to catch missing shingles early.
- Make sure your attic has proper soffit and ridge vents to prevent heat and moisture from destroying your roof from the inside out.
Frequently Asked Questions
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