Diligent homeowners are often able to avoid some of the most expensive and inconvenient home repairs by preparing ahead with home maintenance, timely repairs and adequate insurance. As any long-time homeowner knows, there's always a chance something can go wrong. Homeowners and property owners should follow recommended routine roof repair and maintenance for their properties. By understanding the most common causes of a leaky roof, you may be able to avoid the cost and time-consuming hassles of roof repairs before they start.

If you have questions like "can backed-up gutters cause roof leaks," you've come to the right place. Here's a closer look at what homeowners should know about the causes of a leaky roof to keep your property in the best possible shape.

Are Leaky Roofs a Big Cost for Homeowners?

Roof repair and maintenance are important when you own a property. While the expense can feel large at the time, preventative maintenance like roof repairs can save you even more money in the long run if you can avoid a leaky roof.

According to the home improvement website Angi, the typical cost to replace a roof ranges from $8,700 to $22,000. The cost varies widely based on your location, size of your home and the project's complexity.

For example, the estimated cost to replace a roof on a 1,000-square-foot home may be less than $10,000. Large homes with roofs over 3,000 square feet may require more than $30,000 for a full replacement. If you are looking to repair or replace your roof, it can be a good idea to shop around and get quotes from several contractors or experts to ensure you get a good deal. Consider checking references if you're worried about the quality of their work.

Common Causes of a Leaky Roof

Common causes of roof leaks are important to be aware of, so you can take steps to avoid them. While it's not an exhaustive list, it can help you get on track to keeping your roof in tip-top shape.

• Clogged gutters:Can backed-up gutters cause roof leaks? Yes, they can. Keeping your gutters clear of debris so water can flow away from your home protects your roof and foundation from water damage. If you live in an area with lots of trees and brush, you may need to clean out your gutters multiple times a year, especially in the fall or times when gutters in your region tend to back up.
• Holes in the roof:If you can look up and see sunshine peaking through your roof on a clear day, it shouldn't surprise you to see water leaking through those same spots during rain or snow.
• Excess moisture:Excess moisture can come from a variety of places, including the air (if you live in a very humid area), a broken pipe or a misbehaving appliance. Keep a look out for moisture buildups. Quickly solving those problems can prevent more serious damage. Checking for any moisture is particularly important if you're going to be away from the home for longer than a few weeks.
• Missing shingles:A single missing shingle may not cause problems immediately, but you should replace missing shingles as soon as possible. Shingles play an important role in deflecting rain and other moisture from your roof.
• Damaged flashing:Flashing is a thin metal strip that lines the edge where roof shingles end. For example, flashing may line where your roofing meets your chimney or the roof's edge. Flashing directs water away from places where it could easily pool and cause trouble, so make sure to repair any damaged flashing.
• Your roof is just old:In most cases, homes don't get the same benefit from age like a fine wine. When houses get older, things tend to wear out and break. After years of storms, wind, rain and perhaps an occasional football or kite on the roof, shingles and other roof parts may break down. Homeowners must replace even the best-maintained roofs periodically. The typical roof lasts between 20 and 50 years depending on the material.

How Homeowner's Insurance Helps When you Have a Roof Leak

Homeowner's insurance policies often include features to help with repair costs from damage to your home or personal property, which may include coverage for damages or repairs from a leaky roof. Coverage and limits depend on your policy and the cause of the leak.

If you're not sure about your coverage for a leaky roof, reach out to a Westfield agent today to get help evaluating your current coverage. Make sure you're set for the future, including a possible leaky roof.

When you stay on top of roof repair and maintenance, you're in the best position to avoid leaks from the start. But if water does manage to get through, you'll be glad to have the right insurance for your unique needs.