R&W Roofing Cambridge, MA

Emergency Storm Repair

Cambridge, MA storms can be brutal. High winds can lift shingles, and hail can crack them. If you have storm damage, we offer emergency roof repair. We will tarp the damaged area immediately to stop water intrusion. Then, we perform a permanent repair that matches your existing roof as closely as possible.

Common Leak Sources

We fix the "hard" leaks that handy-men miss.

• Pipe Boots: The rubber gaskets around plumbing vents rot over time. We replace them.
• Chimney Flashing: If the metal flashing pulls away from the brick, water pours in. We re-flash and seal chimneys.
• Valleys: This is where high volumes of water flow. We repair rusted or punctured valleys to ensure smooth drainage.

The "Don't Caulk It" Philosophy

Many amateurs try to fix roofs with a tube of caulk. This is a temporary band-aid that often traps water and makes the rot worse. We fix roofs the right way—by removing the damaged material, repairing the underlayment, and installing new shingles and flashing integrated properly with the roof system.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can you fix a leak without replacing the roof? In many cases, yes. If the roof is relatively young and the damage is localized (like a bad pipe boot), a repair is perfectly sufficient.
• How do you find a leak? We check the attic for water trails on the underside of the deck. We also check the roof surface for "shiners" (nails that missed the rafter) and damaged flashing.
• Is roof repair covered by insurance? If the damage is from a storm (wind/hail), yes. If it is from wear and tear or lack of maintenance, typically no. We can help you determine the cause.
• What is a skylight leak? Skylights often leak due to failed flashing kits. We can re-flash the skylight or replace the entire unit if the seal has failed.
• How much does a repair cost? It varies, but it is a fraction of the cost of a replacement. We have a minimum service charge that covers the diagnosis and minor repairs.