Roof leak repair — DIY or professional? The right answer depends on the type of damage, roof pitch, and how quickly you caught it.
Leaks You Can Typically Handle Yourself
- Single cracked or missing shingle on a low-pitch roof
- Resealing around a plumbing vent boot
- Cleaning clogged gutters causing water backup under the eaves
Leaks That Require a Professional
- Any leak involving chimney, skylight, or roof-to-wall flashing
- Sagging decking or widespread shingle failure
- Any structural concern
The Safety Calculation
A 4:12 pitch is walkable with proper footwear. Anything above 6:12 requires a harness, ridge anchor, and roof jacks. Falls from roofs are among the most common causes of serious home improvement injuries.
Temporary Fixes That Buy You Time
Roofing cement and self-adhesive flashing tape can temporarily seal small cracks. Tarping works for larger storm damage. These are bridges, not solutions.
The Cost of Waiting
A $300 repair caught early can prevent $3,000–$10,000 in interior water damage.
📞 Free assessment: Call (401) 681-3578
Full guide: Roof Leak Repair: How to Find It, Fix It, and Prevent It
