How to Find and Fix a Roof Leak

If you notice your roof leaking you need to contact a roofing professional immediately. Roof leaks can lead to irreparable damage and expensive repairs. While you wait for professional repairs you can prevent the spread of damage by patching the leak or placing a bucket to catch any water dripping to protect your floors.

How can you tell if you have a roof leak

The most obvious signs your roof is leaking are water stains on your ceiling or a drip of water coming from your ceiling. If you notice the signs of a roof leak, it’s time to act – fast. A roof won’t repair itself and what appears to be a minor leak can quickly become a major problem causing permanent damage to your home.

8 Signs of a Roof Leak

A roof leak can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare because it can result in costly repairs, structural damage, and mold growth. Early detection of a roof leak is essential to halting further harm and protecting the durability of your roof. We will look at some typical signs of a roof leak in this article so you can act quickly and safeguard your house.

1. Water stains on ceilings and walls

Dirty water is evidence of a leaky roof. If you notice discolored spots or tan stains on your ceiling or walls, it could be water leaking through your roof and making its way into your home.

2. Dripping water

The sound of dripping water within your home, especially during or after rainfall, indicates a leak. It is essential to investigate the source promptly to prevent further damage and minimize potential hazards.

3. Missing or damaged shingles

Damaged or missing shingles can compromise the integrity of your roof, allowing water to penetrate the underlying layers. If you observe curled, cracked, or entirely absent shingles, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent leaks.

4. Granule accumulation in gutters

Shingle granules act as protective layers against UV rays and water. Excessive accumulation of granules in your gutters or downspouts may indicate deteriorating shingles. This can lead to leaks if not addressed, so inspect your gutters regularly.

5. Sagging or drooping roof

A roof that appears to sag or droop in certain areas may indicate underlying structural damage caused by water infiltration. If you notice any irregularities in your roof’s shape, it is advisable to contact a professional roofer for a thorough inspection.

6. Damaged flashing

Flashing is the material used to seal joints and transitions on your roof, such as around chimneys, vents, or skylights. If the flashing becomes loose, damaged, or improperly installed, it can create entry points for water. Inspect the flashing regularly for signs of wear and tear.

7. Mold or mildew growth

Excessive moisture due to a roof leak can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. If you notice any musty odors or see dark spots on your ceilings or walls, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent health risks and further damage.

8. Increased energy bills

A sudden spike in your energy bills without any other obvious explanation can be an indirect sign of a roof leak. When water infiltrates your home, it compromises insulation, leading to increased energy consumption for heating or cooling.

How to Fix Roof Leak?

• Locate the source: Before attempting any repairs, identify the exact location of the roof leak. This may require inspecting your attic, climbing onto the roof, or observing water stains and damage inside your home.
• Temporary fix: If you discover an active leak, it’s crucial to minimize the damage immediately. Place a bucket or any other container beneath the leak to catch dripping water. You can also use a tarp or plastic sheeting to cover the affected area temporarily.
• Clear debris: Remove any debris, such as leaves or branches, from the roof. Debris can trap moisture and accelerate the deterioration of your roof, leading to leaks. Use caution when clearing debris to avoid causing further damage.
• Repair damaged or missing shingles: If you notice damaged or missing shingles, they should be replaced promptly. Carefully remove the damaged shingles, replace them with new ones of the same type and size, and secure them in place using roofing nails or adhesive as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Seal flashing: Damaged or improperly sealed flashing can be a common cause of roof leaks. Inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and other roof transitions. Replace any damaged or deteriorated flashing and seal any gaps or loose areas with roofing cement or an appropriate sealant.
• Address roof sagging: If you observe areas of your roof sagging or drooping, it indicates structural damage that needs immediate attention. Contact a professional roofing contractor to assess the situation and perform the necessary repairs or reinforcements.
• Repair or replace damaged gutters: If your gutters are damaged or clogged, they can contribute to roof leaks. Clean out any debris from the gutters and downspouts, and repair or replace damaged sections to ensure proper water drainage away from your roof.
• Apply a roof sealant: As a preventative measure, you can apply a roof sealant to vulnerable areas, such as around vents, chimneys, or skylights. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and choose a sealant suitable for your specific roofing material.
• Consult a professional: In some cases, roof leaks may require the expertise of a professional roofing contractor. If you’re uncertain about the repairs or if the leak persists after attempting fixes, it’s advisable to seek professional help to ensure the problem is properly addressed.

How long can you wait to contact a professional?

The longer a leak goes unrepaired, the more damage it can cause. Therefore, it’s essential to address the problem as quickly as possible.

Keep in mind: Contractors cannot come out to repair your roof while it is raining, so make sure you take precautions to contain the leak as best you can then call a contractor to make an appointment for when the rain stops.

Even if the leak stops you should still contact your roofing professional. Some leaks with appear to have stopped and ‘fixed themselves’ but will pop up again later. This then leaves your roof at risk of steady, long-term water damage.

What to look for in a contractor?

Before you call a contractor out to repair your roof, you should first check for these things:

• Check to make sure the contractor has their own insurance.
• Don’t hire someone who just happened to be “in the area” after a big storm.
• Hire a local contractor with a good reputation in your community.
• Make sure they communicate with you and are willing to put contract details into writing.

What should you do while you’re waiting for help?

While you are waiting for a contractor to repair your roof, you can contain the leak within the house. In addition, you can put up an emergency tarp to prevent more water from getting inside your house while you are waiting for the professionals to arrive.

How much does it cost to fix a roof leak?

The cost of repairing a roof leak varies and depends on the extent of the damage. Most homeowners can look at paying an average of $650 for the repair, but the cost can range from $300 to $1,000. If the leak is very small and if the repair doesn’t require many materials, the repair could cost as little as $150. If you’d like an estimate of costs, give us a call at (407) 732-7262 and we’d be happy to answer any questions.

Is the leak repair covered by insurance?

Whether or not the leak repair is covered by your insurance depends on what caused the leak. If the damage was caused by a storm, your insurance, provided it doesn’t have a wind or hail exclusion, may cover the cost of the repair.

However, if it’s caused by wear and tear then the repair is considered part of routine maintenance. In this case, it will most likely not be covered. It’s recommended you check your homeowner’s insurance policy to familiarized yourself with what will and will not be covered so you can take any necessary precautions.

If you’re wanting to replace or repair your roof but your insurance company isn’t giving you enough money to cover it, you have the option of signing an AOB. Only sign an AOB with a roofer you trust. Signing an AOB will allow roofers, like us, to use our industry experience to negotiate on your behalf. We’ve recovered thousands of extra dollars from insurance companies for hundreds of our clients.

If your insurance provides coverage for personal property and the roof repair was covered by your insurance, then your belongings should also be covered. However, your belongings may not be covered if the leak was caused by wear and tear rather than a covered event.

Will you need a new roof?

If your roof is relatively new and the damage was caused in an isolated area, a leak repair may be sufficient. However, if the damage is widespread or if it was caused by general wear and tear, it might be time to get a new roof. If there are cracks in the flashing, the roof is sagging, or the shingles are curling or cracked, your roof may need to be replaced.

When you have your roof replaced, be sure to find a reputable roofing contractor by doing research prior to signing any contracts.

How to prevent future leaks

The best way to prevent future leaks is to make sure you regularly inspect and maintain your roof. Regularly check the most common leak locations, such as chimneys, skylights, flashing, gutters, and vents. Also regularly check your attic for mold and damp spots. Then, if you see a problem, you can get it repaired before it actually turns into a leak.