A roof leak occurs when there is an opening on your roof that allows water from the rain or melting snow and ice to leak into the building.  Roof leaks are generally caused by some kind of damage.  When water leaks through the roof, it gets absorbed in the surrounding building materials, including wood, drywall, insulation, and ceiling tiles, which allows the water to spread.  The affected materials will become rotted and weakened as they absorb more water which increases the risk of a roof or ceiling collapse.

Reacting quickly to a roof leak will help limit the spread of the water and prevent the water damage from becoming severe enough to cause a collapse.

You must be able to identify the signs of a roof leak so you can act quickly and prevent serious damage.  The main signs of roof water damage include the following:

• Leak in the ceiling from the roof
• Water damage in the attic
• Skylight leaks in heavy rain
• Dark or wet spots on ceilings
• Mold on exterior walls or ceilings
• Damage to the shingles or roof

Knowing the main causes of roof leaks will help you better protect your roof from water damage.  The following are the main causes of roof leaks and water damage:

• Holes in the roof
• Missing or damaged shingles
• Problems with gutters
• Damage to the flashing
• Wear and tear on older roofs
• Shallow or flat slope
• Peaks and valleys in the roof design
• Improperly sealed vents, skylines, and chimneys
• Attic condensation
• Damage from debris on the roof

For emergency roof water damage repair, call (888) 915-7197 to find an insured and bonded water damage restoration contractor near you.

The goal of roof water damage restoration services is to remove the water and restore the damage it caused.  Restoration professionals will first stop the spread of the water and address the water source to prevent further damage.  They will then thoroughly dry the affected areas and materials and restore the resulting damage.

Roof water damage repair services include the following steps:

• Identify and address the source of the leak
• Inspect the damage
• Water extraction
• Drying and dehumidification
• Content cleaning
• Reconstruction
• Restoration and repair
• Disinfection and cleaning

For a free consultation, call (888) 915-7197 to get in touch with a roof water damage restoration specialist in your area.

The cost of repairing water damage from a roof leak will vary depending on factors such as the extent of the damage, the source of the leak, and the type of roof.  A leaking skylight may cost between $300 and $800 to repair while a leaking vent can cost between $75 and $250 to repair.  Repairing leaks from damaged shingles can cost around $350 on average.

The overall cost of a roof leak repair ranges from $360 on the low end to $1550, but costs may go higher depending on the extent of the damage and materials involved.

Homeowners insurance will cover water damage from a roof leak if the leak was caused by a covered peril.  Covered perils include a sudden severe storm, poor installation of shingles and other roof features, and accidental damage or cracking.  In these cases, homeowners insurance will cover the water damage the leak caused inside your house, but will not cover the damage to the roof.

Homeowners insurance will not cover water damage from a roof leak if the leak is the result of neglect or lack of maintenance.  For example, if you have neglected to have old worn-out shingles replaced and the leak is caused by damage to the shingles, your insurance will not cover the damage.

It is possible to temporarily patch a roof leak from inside your home and stop more water from leaking.  The following steps will help you fix the leak:

• Remove the water: Start by mopping up excess water and moisture and removing water damaged materials like insulation. You should also be careful to avoid putting weight on water damaged surfaces like walls and floors.
• Find the leak: You can locate the leak by following the path of the water you see leaking back to the roof.
• Patch the leak: Once you find the hole, apply a layer of roofing tar or bitumen paint to the hole using a putty knife. Press a shingle to the area and apply more of the tar or paint around the edges to keep the shingle in place.  The area should be dry before you attempt to patch it.

Remember that this solution is temporary and will help stop the leak until it can be repaired by a professional.  You should always call a water damage restoration professional when dealing with a roof leak.

To talk to a roof water damage contractor near you, call (888) 915-7197 to set up a free consultation.