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Roof Leak

How to Spot and Fix a Roof Leak Before It Becomes a Bigger Problem

A roof leak might start as a small drip or water stain, but left untreated, it can turn into a major headache. From damaged ceilings and insulation to mold growth and structural issues, a leaky roof is something you should never ignore.

In this guide, we’ll help you understand:

  • How to spot signs of a roof leak early

  • What causes roof leaks

  • The most common areas for leaks

  • Step-by-step instructions to fix a roof leak

  • When to call a professional roofer

Let’s protect your home—and your wallet—by tackling this issue head-on.


🔍 How to Know You Have a Roof Leak

Not all leaks are obvious. Some hide behind walls or above ceilings. Look out for these signs:

  • Water stains on ceilings or walls

  • Dripping water during or after rain

  • Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper

  • Mold or mildew smell

  • Dark or damp spots in the attic

  • Missing or curled shingles on your roof

The sooner you notice the signs, the easier and cheaper the repair will be.

🛠️ What Causes a Roof Leak?

Understanding what causes a roof leak helps you prevent them in the future. Common culprits include:

  • Broken or missing shingles
    High winds or old age can break shingles, leaving your roof exposed.

  • Clogged gutters
    When gutters fill with debris, water backs up and can seep into the roofline.

  • Damaged flashing
    Flashing is the metal strip sealing joints around chimneys, skylights, or vents. If it’s corroded or loose, leaks follow.

  • Cracked vent booting
    Pipe boots (those rubber collars around vent pipes) dry out and crack over time.

  • Ice dams
    In winter, melted snow can refreeze at the roof edge, pushing water under shingles.

  • Poor roof installation
    Low-quality work or materials almost always result in leaks over time.

🧱 Where Roof Leaks Typically Occur

You’ll most often find leaks in these vulnerable spots:

  1. Around chimneys

  2. Skylights and roof windows

  3. Valleys where two roof slopes meet

  4. Under damaged or missing shingles

  5. Near vent pipes or HVAC units

  6. At roof-to-wall transitions

Use a flashlight in the attic after heavy rain to trace water paths back to their source.

🛠 Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Roof Leak (DIY)

Warning: Some repairs are safe for DIY, but others are dangerous. Always use a ladder safely, wear non-slip shoes, and avoid roof work in wet or windy weather.

Step 1: Locate the Leak

Start in the attic. Follow any water stains or damp insulation back to their entry point.

Step 2: Mark the Spot

Use chalk or tape to mark the location. Then, inspect the roof from the outside to match the interior leak location with your roof's surface.

Step 3: Remove Damaged Materials

Remove any cracked or missing shingles with a pry bar. Lift nails carefully and set them aside.

Step 4: Apply Roofing Cement or Patch

Cover the leak area with roofing cement or a patching membrane. For larger holes, cut a piece of flashing or shingle to size and fasten it in place.

Step 5: Replace Shingles

Reinstall new shingles and seal the edges with roofing sealant.

📅 Book Online – Fast & Easy Scheduling with Ocean County Roofing

Ready to fix that roof leak, replace your old shingles, or start a new roofing installation?
Now, booking your roofing service is just a click away.

At Ocean County Roofing, we make it simple to schedule appointments online. Whether you need roof repairs, a full roof replacement, or a free estimate for metal roofing installation or a slate roof, our expert team is ready to help—on your schedule.

📍 Serving Elizabeth, NJ & Nearby Areas

📞 Need Help Booking? Call Us: 732-582-4145

🌐 Prefer to book online? Visit: www.greenappleroofing.com

Ocean County Roofing

Elizabeth, NJ 07206

+1 732-582-4145

http://www.greenappleroofing.com/

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