Local roof repair for Providence homes

Providence homes, up close

Winters bring nor'easters and freeze-thaw cycles, and summers turn humid, which is hard on old wood framing, roofs and mechanical systems. Washington Park and South Providence sit close to the port and I-95, with many two- and three-family homes on narrow lots.

Providence is the state capital, and its housing ranges from Victorian single-family homes on the East Side to rows of wood-frame triple-deckers in neighborhoods like Elmwood and Olneyville. Older homes may have several layers of shingles, chimneys that need flashing work and gutters that have been patched many times.

Flat and low-slope roofs are common on Providence triple-deckers, and water tends to sit after heavy rain. Mention a flat roof when you call so the right roofer is matched. The Fox Point Hurricane Barrier was finished in the 1960s after the hurricanes of 1938 and 1954 put downtown under water.

Rules and utilities worth knowing

Residential roofers in Rhode Island must register with the Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board, and commercial roofers need a separate state license. Check the registration online. Reroofing jobs in Providence usually need a permit from the city's Department of Inspection and Standards.

What usually goes wrong

You may want a roofing contractor if you notice any of these:

• Leaks around a chimney or skylight
• Ice dams in winter
• Sagging or soft spots

What to have ready

Take photos of the leak inside and any visible damage outside, and note when the leak shows up, such as during rain or snowmelt.

What happens after you call

1. Give us a short description and a good callback number.
2. A local roofing contractor who works in Providence gets your request.
3. They confirm timing, price and any fees with you directly.