Your family's protection depends on knowing the truth. After 15+ years in Rhode Island's roofing industry, we're exposing the secrets that could save you thousands and protect your Rhode Island home.
The roofing industry has secrets. Some contractors would prefer you never discover these insider truths about Rhode Island's unique coastal challenges, insurance loopholes, and cost-saving strategies. But at Mighty Dog Roofing, we believe transparency builds trust - and protects families.
Here are the 10 shocking secrets your Rhode Island roofer might never tell you:
---
Rhode Island roofs deal with coastal wind, salt air, and freeze–thaw cycles that can shorten roof life fast—especially in towns like Newport, Narragansett, Jamestown, Barrington, East Greenwich, and Little Compton.
This updated 2026 guide shares the “insider truths” homeowners need to avoid expensive mistakes, spot red flags, and choose a roofer who actually protects your home.
Need help now? Call (401) 425-4108 or text/call 401-234-2452 to schedule a roof inspection.
Secret #1: “Lifetime” warranties often don’t cover Rhode Island’s real problems
Many warranties sound great until you read the exclusions. In Rhode Island, the most common roof issues are often tied to:
- High winds / nor’easters
- Salt air corrosion near the coast
- Ice dams and winter moisture
- Installation errors (the #1 reason claims get denied)
What to do instead (2026 homeowner move): Ask for the warranty in writing and confirm:
- What counts as “wind damage”
- Whether coastal exposure changes coverage
- Who backs the workmanship warranty (and how long they’ve been local)
Secret #2: “Emergency” pricing can be real—or a markup trap
After storms, some contractors push “emergency” work at 3–5x normal pricing, even when the home is stable.
A real emergency usually means:
- Active leak causing interior damage
- Structural risk (sagging, collapse concerns)
- Missing roof sections exposing the interior
- Safety hazards from loose materials
Smart play: Document damage with photos, then get a clear scope before approving major work.
Secret #3: You can choose your contractor—insurance can’t force their “preferred list”
Insurance networks often prioritize speed and cost control. You still have the right to choose any licensed contractor.
Ask your insurer:
“Can I choose my own contractor?”
“Do I have replacement cost coverage or ACV?”
“Are code upgrades covered?”
“What documentation do you need for approval?”
Secret #4: Coastal code requirements are stricter than many contractors follow
Rhode Island homes—especially coastal properties—often require upgraded practices for wind and moisture.
What homeowners should verify:
- Proper fastening patterns for high-wind areas
- Corrosion-resistant flashing/fasteners where appropriate
- Ice/water protection in vulnerable zones
- Ventilation that prevents moisture buildup and ice dams
Secret #5: Some “free inspections” are just sales scripts
A legitimate inspection should include:
- Photo documentation (or drone imagery when appropriate)
- A written summary of findings
- Repair vs. replacement options
- No-pressure recommendations
Red flags:
- “Price is only good today”
- No photos, no report
- Refusal to explain why a replacement is necessary
- Pressure to sign on the spot
Secret #6: Your roof’s biggest enemy might be ventilation (not weather)
In Rhode Island, moisture + temperature swings can create:
- Mold risk in attics
- Ice dams
- Premature shingle aging
- Higher heating/cooling costs
What to ask in 2026: “What’s my intake/exhaust ventilation plan—and how will you verify it?”
Secret #7: “Matching shingles” rarely match (and it can hurt resale)
Even if you buy the same brand/color, new shingles can look different due to:
- Lot variation
- UV fading on the existing roof
- Discontinued colors
When repair makes sense: small, hidden sections.
When replacement makes sense: visible slopes, multiple repair areas, or selling soon.
Secret #8: Gutters can quietly destroy your roof (and foundation)
Rhode Island’s leaf seasons + winter ice can cause gutters to overflow, leading to:
- Fascia/soffit rot
- Ice dam formation
- Basement/foundation water issues
Minimum best practice: clean/inspect gutters 2–3x per year and after major storms.
Secret #9: Metal roofs last—but accessories still need maintenance
Metal can be an excellent option for coastal resilience, but homeowners should plan for:
- Fastener and washer aging
- Sealant refresh cycles
- Thermal movement over time
Bottom line: metal is often worth it—just don’t assume it’s “zero maintenance.”
Secret #10: Your roofer’s insurance might not protect you the way you think
Before any project, request proof of:
- General liability (ideally $1M+)
- Workers’ compensation
Pro tip: Ask for certificates and confirm they’re current.
Bonus Secret: Most early roof failures come from shortcuts
The most common shortcuts we see:
- Under-fastening
- Poor flashing details
- Skipped ventilation planning
- Rushed install timelines
- Low-grade underlayment choices
How to protect yourself: insist on a detailed scope, photos, and clear materials listed in writing.
FAQs (2026)
How much does a new roof cost in Rhode Island in 2026?
Most projects vary widely based on size, pitch, material, ventilation, and decking condition. The fastest way to get an accurate number is a professional inspection and a written scope.
How fast can you respond for emergency roof repair?
For urgent leaks and storm damage, response is typically 4–24 hours depending on weather and safety.
Do you help with insurance claims?
Yes—documentation and guidance are available so homeowners understand next steps and what to expect.
Do you still offer solar?
No—solar services are discontinued. Our focus is roofing and exterior systems delivered with consistent quality. However, we do offer solar panel detach and reset services for homeowners who need roof work completed beneath an existing solar array, or who are experiencing complications with their solar provider.
Ready for an honest roof inspection?
If you want clarity (not pressure), start with a roof inspection.
Call: (401) 425-4108
Text/Call: 401-234-2452
Rhode Island Service Locations:
Ashaway, Barrington, Bradford, Bristol, Carolina, Central Falls, Charlestown, Chepachet, Clayville, Coventry, Cranston, Cumberland, East Greenwich, East Providence, Exeter, Forestdale, Foster, Glendale, Greene, Greenville, Harrisville,Hope,Hope Valley, Hopkinton, Jamestown, Johnston, Kenyon, Kingston, Lincoln, Little Compton, Manville, Mapleville, Middletown, Narragansett, Newport, North Kingstown, North Providence, North Scituate, North Smithfield, Oakland, Pascoag, Pawtucket, Portsmouth, Providence, Riverside, Rockville, Rumford, Saunderstown, Shannock, Scituate, Slatersville, Smithfield, Tiverton, Wakefield, Warren, Warwick, West Greenwich, West Kingston, West Warwick, Westerly, Wood River Junction, Woonsocket, Wyoming.
Last updated: 2026