Can A Clogged Gutter Really Cause My Roof Leak?
Allstate Exteriors • September 5, 2022
How is the health of your fascia? Like most homeowners, you are probably unaware that the horizontal, decorative boards covering the ends of your rafters are fascia boards. But those fascia boards can tell the tale of clogged gutters and roof leaks.
Gutters and Fascia Boards
Your home’s gutters attach to your house with brackets, gutter spikes, or gutter screws driven into your home’s fascia boards. Fascia trim is usually painted to match the rest of your exterior molding, providing a colorful, horizontal accent at your roof’s lower edge. Fascia boards do more than that, though. Sure, they look good and anchor your gutters, but they also cap the ends of your roof’s rafters and help form your home’s soffits and eaves.
How can these remarkable, often unappreciated bits of molding cause roof leaks? Like this:
- If gutters clog, they overflow
- Overflowing gutters saturate the fascia boards behind them
- Soggy, waterlogged fascia boards rot
- Rotten boards allow water to enter your attic and roof
- Your roof leaks
This is not an overnight process. A clogged gutter may not result in roof leaks for many months. But nothing will reverse the process. No part of your home is self-healing. So:
- Clogged gutters must be cleaned out
- Rotten fascia boards must be removed and replaced
Ohio Homeowners
Our Florida friends may not have to worry about ice dams, but Ohio homeowners certainly do. Clogged gutters can cause ice dams to form in winter. Ice dams occur during freeze-and-thaw cycles and often lead to roof leaks far up away from your roof edge. Then your roof leaks may appear anywhere on your roof.
Sorry, Florida
Before our Florida homeowners hurt themselves patting each other on the back, clogged gutters in the Sunshine state spell problems, too:
- Saturated, weakened foundations
- Insect invasion and damage
- Sagging, loose, or leaking gutters
Solutions
Get in touch with your local, reliable gutter service to prevent clogged gutters from degrading your home, whether in Ohio or Florida. Gleaming new, seamless gutters capped with gutter guards can help prevent clogs. Regular gutter inspections can help prevent fascia boards from rotting and ruining your roof.
Allstate Exteriors & Restoration, with service centers in central Ohio and Cape Coral, Florida, provides complete exterior home services to our clients. Contact us today, and we can help you identify problems with your fascia boards, gutters, and other areas you might not notice. One visit can provide years of peace of mind!
Water Dripping from Your Ceiling? Here’s What It Really Means—and Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Fix It Picture this: you’re relaxing at home when you notice a faint stain on your ceiling… or worse, you hear the slow drip drip drip of water. If you're like most homeowners, your first instinct might be to ignore it and hope it stops on its own. Unfortunately, ceiling leaks don’t go away—they get worse. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you understand what a ceiling leak could mean for your home—and what to do about it before it turns into a much bigger, more expensive problem. What Does a Ceiling Leak Really Mean? A ceiling leak is almost never just a ceiling leak. It’s a warning sign that something behind the scenes isn’t right—and it’s usually related to your roofing system, gutters, or even attic ventilation. Common causes include: Damaged or missing shingles Improper roof installation Clogged or overflowing gutters Worn flashing or cracked vent boots Ice dams (in colder climates) Poor attic insulation or ventilation Regardless of the cause, the longer you wait, the more damage can occur to your ceiling, walls, insulation, and even your foundation. Signs of a Ceiling Leak Even if you haven’t noticed a full-on drip, your ceiling might be warning you that water is getting in. Watch for: Yellow or brown discoloration on the ceiling Bubbling or peeling paint Sagging drywall Musty smells or signs of mold Water stains that seem to grow over time These small signs can lead to big headaches—like mold growth, structural rot, and ruined insulation—if not handled quickly. What to Do if You Spot a Ceiling Leak If you see any of the signs above, don’t panic—but do act fast. Here’s your action plan: 1. Contain the water – Place a bucket under any active drips to prevent floor damage. 2. Protect your belongings – Move furniture, electronics, or anything valuable out of the way. 3. Call Allstate Exteriors – Our team will inspect your roof, attic, and exterior to find the *true source* of the leak—not just patch it up temporarily. 4. Get a detailed, free estimate – We’ll walk you through exactly what needs fixed, why, and how we can prevent future issues. Why Choose Allstate Exteriors? With over 20 years of experience in roofing, siding, and gutter systems, Allstate Exteriors is your trusted partner when your home’s been compromised. We're family-owned and operated, and we treat every home like it’s our own. We offer: ✅ Honest inspections ✅ Fast, professional repairs ✅ Owens Corning Platinum Preferred quality ✅ Insurance claim assistance ✅ Long-lasting peace of mind From small repairs to full roof replacements , we’re here to protect your home—and everything inside it. If you’ve noticed discoloration, drips, or water damage in your ceiling, now is the time to act. A ceiling leak might feel like a small inconvenience today, but it can lead to thousands of dollars in damage if left untreated. 📍 Serving Ohio and Florida homes with expert care and craftsmanship. Call us or request an estimate online—we’ll be there before the next drop falls.
Why That “Too Good to Be True” Price Might Be Exactly That From Allstate Exteriors | Roofing Experts You Can Count On in Florida & Ohio We get it — shopping for a new roof isn’t exactly fun. And when you're staring down a stack of quotes, one of them usually jumps out: 💥 A super low price. Maybe $5,000 for the full job. Sounds like a win, right? Not so fast. At Allstate Exteriors, we’ve had way too many homeowners call us a few years after going with the cheapest bid, saying, “I wish we would’ve known.” And honestly? We wish they would’ve too. So, let’s talk about what’s really going on behind those lowball roofing quotes — and how to protect your home from future headaches. What’s Usually Missing From a $5K Roof? If a quote comes in way lower than the others, there’s almost always a reason — and it usually means something essential got left out. Like: ❌ No Premium Underlayment Quality roofs need a protective barrier under the shingles. Many cheap quotes skip the synthetic underlayment or ice & water shield altogether — opening the door for future leaks. ❌ Old Flashing Gets Reused Flashing is what seals areas around chimneys, vents, and valleys. When it’s reused instead of replaced, it can let water in behind the scenes. ❌ Ventilation? What Ventilation? Proper attic airflow is critical to a roof’s lifespan. A lot of budget contractors won’t even check your vents, let alone upgrade them — which can cause mold, heat damage, and early shingle failure. ❌ Cover-Ups Instead of Tear-Offs Some roofers just install new shingles over the old ones to save time and labor. It’s faster, cheaper, and totally voids most manufacturer warranties. No thanks. ❌ Questionable Crews We’ve seen some shockingly low quotes come from crews with no insurance, no licensing, and no long-term plan to stick around. That’s not just a risk — it’s a liability. What That Cheap Roof Can Actually Cost You Let’s say you go with the $5,000 roof. It looks fine at first. But within a few years: The shingles are curling Water starts leaking in during storms You find soft spots in the decking The original roofer? Gone. No warranty. No support . Now you're looking at a $15,000 tear-off and redo — on top of the original cost. That “cheap” roof just got very expensive. What a Quality Roofing Quote Should Actually Include At Allstate Exteriors, we don’t cut corners to win bids. We build roofs that last — and we’re transparent about everything included. When you get a quote from us, here’s what’s part of the package: ✔️ Full tear-off (no cover-ups!) ✔️ Ice & water shield in all the right places ✔️ Premium synthetic underlayment ✔️ Upgraded ventilation and intake systems ✔️ Brand new flashing and drip edge ✔️ Manufacturer-compliant install (to keep your warranty valid) ✔️ Our 2-year workmanship warranty We’re not here to be the cheapest. We’re here to be the most trusted. Smart Questions to Ask Any Roofer Before You Hire Whether you go with us or not, here’s what you should always ask: What underlayment are you using? Will the old roof be torn off or shingled over? Are you upgrading attic ventilation? Will all flashing and drip edge be replaced? What kind of warranty comes with the work? If they hesitate, dodge, or brush you off — trust your gut. Final Thought: Pay Now or Pay Later A new roof is a big investment — and it should be one you only have to make once. A bargain quote might feel good today… until the leaks, the rot, and the bills start adding up. So take a breath. Ask the right questions. And choose a roofing partner who’s in it with you for the long haul. 📞 Schedule your free roof inspection with Allstate Exteriors today — and let’s build something that lasts.
Roofing FAQs: What Homeowners Are Asking in 2025 Roofing isn’t something most homeowners think about—until there’s a leak, missing shingles, or storm damage. At Allstate Exteriors , we talk to homeowners every day who have questions about their roofs. To make things easier, we’ve rounded up the top roofing FAQs of 2025—and our expert answers to each. 1. How do I know if I need a new roof or just a repair? Look for signs like: Missing or curling shingles Water stains on ceilings Granules in your gutters Visible sagging or soft spots If your roof is over 15 years old, it may be time for a replacement. Our team offers free inspections to help you decide. 2. How much does a new roof cost in 2025? Costs vary based on roof size, materials, pitch, and complexity. On average, a roof replacement can range from $8,000 to $20,000+ in 2025. Insurance may cover storm damage—ask us about your options. 3. What roofing materials are best for my home? It depends on your location and budget. In 2025, these are the most popular: Asphalt shingles: Affordable and durable (especially Owens Corning Duration®) Metal roofing: Great for longevity and energy efficiency Architectural shingles: Stylish, layered look with better performance We’ll help you compare the pros and cons during your estimate. 4. Does homeowner’s insurance cover roof damage? Usually—if it’s caused by a sudden event like hail, wind, or falling debris. Wear and tear over time isn’t typically covered. If you’re unsure, we can help you understand your policy and assist with the claims process. 5. How long does it take to replace a roof? Most homes can be re-roofed in 1–2 days, depending on the size and weather. Our crews are quick, clean, and efficient—minimizing disruption to your home and routine. 6. How long does a new roof last? Average lifespans: Asphalt shingles: 20–30 years Architectural shingles: 30–50 years Metal roofing: 40–70 years Proper installation and ventilation make a big difference—so does choosing a certified roofing contractor like Allstate Exteriors. 7. What is a roofing warranty , and what does it cover? There are typically two types: Manufacturer’s warranty: Covers defects in materials Workmanship warranty: Covers installation issues We offer both—including options backed by Owens Corning for added peace of mind. 8. What should I ask before hiring a roofing contractor? Ask about: Licensing and insurance Local experience References or online reviews Warranties offered Whether they work with your insurance company. (Pro tip: Allstate Exteriors checks all those boxes.) 9. Can I finance my roof replacement? Yes! We offer flexible payment options and financing plans to fit most budgets—plus guidance on using insurance or grant programs when available. 1 0. What time of year is best to replace a roof? Spring and fall are ideal, but our crews work year-round. In emergencies (like leaks or storm damage), we act fast no matter the season. Got More Roofing Questions? We’ve Got Answers . At Allstate Exteriors, we believe in keeping homeowners informed. Whether you need a full replacement, a small repair, or just a second opinion, we’re here to help. Book your free estimate
When most homeowners think about a roof, they picture shingles—and for good reason. Shingles are the most visible part of your roof, and they play a huge role in protection and curb appeal. But here at Allstate Exteriors , we know that a roof is only as strong as the system beneath it. Let’s break down all the unseen heroes of your roofing system—and why each one matters for keeping your home safe, dry, and protected for the long haul. 1. Roof Decking: The Foundation of it All Before we can install a single shingle, we need a solid foundation. Roof decking is the plywood or OSB layer that’s nailed to your roof trusses. It’s what every other roofing component is attached to. Why It Matters: If your decking is soft, rotted, or uneven, it can’t hold nails properly, leading to shingle blow-offs, leaks, and structural issues. That’s why we always inspect—and replace decking when needed—to give your roof a strong start. 2. Ice & Water Shield: Your First Line of Defense Ice & water shield is a self-adhering waterproof membrane installed in the most leak-prone areas of your roof—like eaves, valleys, and around penetrations (chimneys, vents, skylights). Why It Matters: It acts as a barrier against wind-driven rain and ice dams, which can cause water to back up under your shingles and into your attic. Especially in Ohio’s snowy winters or Florida’s hurricane season, this layer is crucial for preventing water damage before it starts. 3. Synthetic Underlayment: A Secondary Shield Beneath your shingles sits a layer of synthetic underlayment. Think of it as your roof’s backup plan—if water gets past the shingles, this layer is there to stop it. Why It Matters: Unlike outdated felt paper, modern synthetic underlayment is stronger, more breathable, and resistant to tearing or wrinkling, especially in high heat and wind conditions. 4. Flashing: The Unsung Hero Around Penetrations Flashing is the metal installed around chimneys, skylights, roof edges, valleys, and vents to direct water away from vulnerable areas. Why It Matters: Poor or rusted flashing is one of the most common causes of roof leaks. At Allstate Exteriors, we make sure it’s installed right—and replaced if it’s compromised. 5. Ventilation: The Key to a Healthy Roof (and Home) Proper roof ventilation allows hot, moist air to escape from your attic. This helps regulate temperature and reduces condensation, mold growth, and ice dams. Why It Matters: A poorly ventilated attic can shorten the life of your roof, increase energy bills, and lead to moisture damage inside your home. We design every ventilation system to keep airflow balanced year-round. 6. Ridge Cap Shingles & Starter Strips: Small Details, Big Impact Starter strips help prevent wind uplift along the edges of your roof Ridge cap shingles finish the job with a clean look and added protection along peaks Why They Matter: They might be small, but these components ensure your roof is sealed properly—and look great doing it. Why a Complete Roofing System Matters At Allstate Exteriors, we don’t just slap on shingles and call it a day. We install complete roofing systems using the best materials, expert craftsmanship, and proven installation methods. Every component we use is designed to work together to: Prevent leaks Improve energy efficiency Extend the life of your roof Maximize your warranty coverage Let’s Build a Roof That Lasts Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, age-related wear, or planning ahead, we’re here to make sure your next roof is more than just pretty—it’s protected, top to bottom. 📞 Call today for a free, no-pressure roof inspection!
Looking for high-quality roofing in Cape Coral, FL? Discover how our expert roofers are transforming homes with durable, weather-resistant roofing solutions tailored for Florida’s climate.
When a major storm rolls through Florida or Ohio , your first thought is likely about keeping your family safe — but once the skies clear, your next priority should be checking your home for damage. Roofing issues are some of the most common (and costly) storm-related repairs, and the good news is your homeowner’s insurance may help cover the costs. Filing a roofing insurance claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with stress after a storm. That’s why we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process with confidence — and get your home back to pre-storm condition as quickly as possible. Step 1: Inspect Your Roof for Visible Damage Start with a visual inspection. You don’t need to climb up on the roof — in fact, we recommend you don’t. From the ground (or with binoculars), look for: Missing or curled shingles Dents in metal flashing or gutters Granule loss or bald spots on shingles Pieces of shingles or roofing debris in your yard Water stains on ceilings or in the attic In Florida, hurricanes and heavy winds can rip shingles off or loosen flashing. In Ohio, hail and tornado-force winds can cause both visible and hidden damage. Step 2: Document Everything Take clear, dated photos of any damage you notice — and if it’s safe, get interior shots of leaks, water stains, or ceiling damage. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be. Pro tip: Snap photos from multiple angles and save them in a digital folder titled by storm date. This makes it easy to submit to your insurance provider later. Step 3: Contact a Local Roofing Company for an Inspection Before calling your insurance company, have a reputable roofing contractor (like Allstate Exteriors 😉) perform a free storm damage inspection. This ensures: You know exactly what damage was caused by the storm You’re not relying solely on the insurance adjuster’s findings You have a written inspection report and estimate for repairs A good roofing company will also walk you through the insurance claim process — and in many cases, even meet with your adjuster to make sure nothing is missed. Step 4: File the Claim with Your Insurance Provider Once you’ve confirmed there’s storm-related damage, it’s time to officially file your claim. Most providers allow you to do this: Online via your insurance portal, t hrough a mobile app, or b y calling their claims department. Be prepared to provide: Your policy number Date and time of the storm A general description of the damage Photos and inspection report (if available) Step 5: Meet with the Insurance Adjuster After filing, the insurance company will schedule an adjuster to inspect the damage in person. It’s crucial that your roofing contractor is there too. This helps: Advocate for all damage to be noted Prevent missed or overlooked issues Ensure you get a fair, full estimate for repair or replacement At Allstate Exteriors , we meet adjusters on-site to represent your best interest — so nothing falls through the cracks. Step 6: Review the Insurance Estimate Once the adjuster completes their report, you’ll receive a damage estimate and coverage breakdown. This will include: What’s covered and what’s not, y our deductible amount, and t he total payout you’ll receive. If something seems off or missing, your contractor can help you supplement the claim with additional documentation. Step 7: Schedule the Repairs After approval, you’re free to move forward! Choose a licensed and insured roofing company to complete the repairs or replacement. Keep all invoices and receipts — your insurance provider may need them for final reimbursement. * Bonus Tip: Keep Records of Everything* From emails and texts to photos and receipts, hold onto all communication throughout the claims process. This protects you in case of disputes or delays. Dealing with storm damage can be stressful, but filing a roofing insurance claim doesn’t have to be. With the right steps (and the right roofing partner), you can restore your home quickly and confidently. Whether you’re facing hurricane aftermath in Florida or hail damage in Ohio, our team at Allstate Exteriors is here to help. We’ve worked with countless homeowners through the insurance process — and we’re happy to do the same for you. Need a free storm damage inspection? Schedule yours today and let us handle the hard part.