What Homeowners Need to Know About Long Island Roof Leaks
Over 35 Years as a Roofer in Long Island
Long Island roof leaks are annoying and unpleasant. At first you may only notice minor roof leaks in heavy rain. But with each rainy season the leaks grow bigger and more frequent. Before you know it, every time it rains water comes into your house.
Left ignored, that minor roof leak can become a major repair. Patching a small hole in your roofing now can save you from ceiling damage or even roof replacement.
How Do You Find
the Source of a Roof Leak?
You can’t repair a leak until you find it. But it isn’t always easy to see damage to your roof. Professional roofers can spot issues that untrained eyes would miss.
The first step is to trace the stains on your ceiling or wall back to their source. That can give you a general idea of where your roof problem lies. You can also examine your attic with a flashlight for signs of dampness, mold growth or water stains.
If you have an older roof, regular roof inspections are a good idea. Roofing professionals are experts in storm damage. They know what high winds can do and they know where to look for problems.
What are the Causes of Roof Leaks?
Here are some of the most common reasons for Long Island roof leaks.
Roof Leaks Caused by Old Roofs
With every season, your roof absorbs a little more damage from the elements. Shingles become brittle with age, as do the sealants used to help hold the shingles on your roof. In time they begin to crack from a wind or from the weight of a snowfall.
Leaks are often the first sign that your roof is showing its age. The sooner you replace your worn shingles with new ones, the less likely you are to face structural water damage.
Patching up leaks every time it rains is just a temporary fix. A new roof can solve you worries and give you peace of mind for up to 50 years.
Roof Leaks Caused by Clogged Gutters
Gutters carry rainwater away from your roof to the ground. But when those gutters are full of leaves and debris, they can become clogged. This results in water pouring down the sides of the gutters onto the fascia and soffit.
As the wall becomes saturated, standing water pools on the roof eaves. This can leak down into your home’s walls and ceiling.
Keeping your gutters clean can be a challenge, especially if you live in a neighborhood with a lot of trees. But it’s a small effort that can save you a lot of trouble later.
Roof Leaks Caused by Leaky Chimneys or Vents
If you notice water coming in around your chimney or heat vents, chances are there is a problem with the flashing. Flashing a chimney properly takes time and requires some skill. Many roofers don’t have that skill and so they leave space where water can seep through.
Roof vents need a roof boot that redirects water onto the shingles and keeps it out of your home. Poorly installed vents can lead to water leaks and seepage.
We have experience both in flashing roof repair and in chimney installation and maintenance. If you’re having trouble with leaky chimneys or vents, give us a call. We’re specialists in emergency roof leak repair and can take care of your problem fast.
Roof Leaks Caused by Ice Dams
Roof Leaks Caused by Wind
Summer squalls and wintertime nor’easters can play havoc on Long Island roofs. The wind pushes against the shingles and lifts them up. In time this can loosen the nails and sealant that attach the shingles to the roof deck.
Wind damage leaks are annoying, but they are easy enough to fix. If you have a roofing expert inspect your roof after a good storm, you can locate the damaged roof material. Your contractor can then take care of the damage.
Roof repair costs for minor wind damage are considerably less than the cost of roof replacement. And if you are looking for a roof replacement, you have many options available for wind resistant shingles.
Roof Leaks Near or Around Windows
If you see water seeping in around your window during storms, there could be several causes. Most involve improper installation. Badly sealed windows don’t just let rain in, they’re also horribly energy-inefficient. We can inspect your window and correct any installation failures.
Leaks around a dormer suggest issues with the roof valley. If your roof installer didn’t seal the valley properly, you may see leakage during rainstorms.
When properly installed, the valley between the dormer and roof should be watertight. The valley directs the water to the gutters. Dormers are a common failure point with less skilled roofers.
Does Homeowner's Insurance
Cover Roof Leaks?
While homeowner’s insurance will cover roof leaks caused by covered perils like storms. Most homeowner’s policies do not cover water damage from a leaking roof caused by normal wear and tear. There may also be limitations or exclusions on the types of damage covered. Talk to your insurance company for details on your coverage.
The best way to avoid damages from roof leaks is to take care of them before they become major issues. Minor repairs can save you a lot of money later on. At County Roofing, we know how to fix a leaking roof. We spot the breach and patch it before it can do more water damage.
We’ve got experience on all types of roofs, including metal roofing. We’ve prevented water from seeping into homes across Long Island and New York City.
County Roofing is your
Long Island Roof Leak Specialist
With over 35 years in the roofing industry, County Roofing understands the unique challenges posed by Long Island’s harsh winters and frequent storms. Our team quickly identifies the source of leaks, whether caused by damaged shingles, ice dams, or poor flashing. We then resolve the issue with minimal disruption to your home.
County Roofing Systems professionals are trained in the latest leak detection technologies, ensuring that even small issues are caught and repaired before they escalate into costly problems. Whether you’re dealing with minor leaks or need a full roof replacement, County Roofing offers tailored solutions to keep your home safe and dry.
People Also Ask...
What causes roof leaks on Long Island?
Roof leaks in Long Island are often caused by aging roofing materials, missing or damaged shingles, clogged gutters, poor installation, and extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, snow, or high winds common to the area.
How can I tell if my roof is leaking?
Signs of a roof leak include water stains on ceilings or walls, damp spots in the attic, peeling paint, mold growth, or a musty odor inside your home. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to address them promptly.
Does the weather on Long Island contribute to roof leaks?
Yes, Long Island’s climate can contribute to roof leaks. The area experiences a range of weather conditions, including heavy rain, snowstorms, and strong winds, which can damage roofing materials and lead to leaks.
How often should I inspect my roof for leaks?
It’s recommended to inspect your roof at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. Additionally, you should check your roof after major storms to identify and address any damage promptly.
Can I fix a roof leak myself, or should I hire a professional?
While minor repairs might be manageable for someone with DIY experience, it’s generally advisable to hire a professional roofer. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively repair roof leaks, ensuring the problem is fully resolved.
How much does it cost to repair a roof leak on Long Island?
The cost to repair a roof leak can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage, the type of roofing material, and the contractor’s rates. On average, homeowners might expect to pay between $300 and $1,000, but significant repairs could cost more.
Does homeowners insurance cover roof leaks?
Homeowners insurance may cover roof leaks if they are caused by a covered peril, such as a storm or falling tree. However, leaks due to neglect or normal wear and tear are typically not covered. It’s best to check with your insurance provider for specifics.
How long does it take to repair a roof leak?
The time required to repair a roof leak depends on the severity of the damage. Minor repairs might be completed in a few hours, while more extensive repairs could take a day or more.
What are the most common types of roofs on Long Island?
Common roofing materials on Long Island include asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, slate, and metal roofing. The choice often depends on the home’s architectural style and the homeowner’s preference.
How can I prevent future roof leaks?
Regular maintenance is key to preventing roof leaks. This includes routine inspections, cleaning gutters, replacing damaged shingles promptly, and ensuring proper attic ventilation. Hiring a professional for regular maintenance can help extend the life of your roof.
In over 3 decades of contracting work on Long Island, we’ve worked with many local home equity lenders. Give us a call and let us help you find financing. The sooner you get your roof leaks fixed, the less likely it is that your roof will sustain serious damage.
