Roof Repair and Leaks: What to Do

First steps when your roof leaks

• Move belongings, put a bucket under the drip and protect floors.
• If water pools in a ceiling bulge, carefully pierce it to drain it into a bucket and reduce damage.
• Take photos for your insurer.
• Do not climb on a wet, icy or steep roof. Call a professional.
• Call your insurer if the damage is sudden (storm, fallen tree, wind).

Most common causes of roof leaks

Flashing failures around chimneys, skylights, vents and walls are the number one cause. Missing or lifted shingles after a windstorm come next. In winter, ice dams push water under shingles at the eaves (see our ice dam guide). On flat roofs, open seams, blisters and clogged drains cause most infiltrations.

Repair or replace?

A localized problem on a roof that is less than 15 years old is usually worth repairing. Consider a full replacement if the shingles are curling, cracked or losing granules everywhere, if there are several leaks, or if the roof is near the end of its expected life.

What a roof repair typically costs

Simple repairs such as replacing a few shingles or resealing flashing often cost a few hundred dollars. More complex work like rebuilding chimney flashing or repairing rotten decking can reach $1,500 or more. Emergency calls in winter cost more.