Roofing guides

Real answers, written for homeowners. No scare tactics and no pretending every problem needs a new roof.

Example photo: a ceiling stained and blistered by a roof leak after heavy rain

Roof Leaking After Heavy Rain: What To Do Next

Catch the water, move your things, take photos, and get the roof inspected. Do not climb up on a wet roof.

Example photo: a brown water stain on an interior ceiling beside a chimney

Water Stains On The Ceiling: Roof Leak Or Something Else?

If the stain only grows when it rains, look at the roof. If it grows any day of the week, look at the plumbing.

Example photo: shingles lifted and missing from a roof after a wind storm

Missing Shingles After Wind: Repair Or Replace?

A few shingles gone in one spot is usually a repair. Lifted seals across several slopes usually points to replacement.

Example photo: a roofer inspecting a shingle roof up close

Roof Repair Or Replacement: How To Decide

Repair when the damage is in one area and the roof is otherwise sound. Replace when the roof is worn out everywhere or the wood underneath is going.

Example photo: a single broken slate being replaced on a slate roof

Slate Roof Leaks: When Restoration Is Possible

On most leaking slate roofs the slate is still good. The copper flashing and the nails are what gave out, and those can be restored.

Example photo: old shingles torn off down to the bare wood deck

Roof Replacement Cost: What Changes The Estimate

Size, the number of old layers, the deck underneath, the material and the number of details are what move the price. Anyone quoting you before seeing the roof is guessing.