My Roof is Leaking What Should I Do?

Ah, the unmistakable drip-drip-drip of a leaky roof — it’s as unwelcome as a skunk at a lawn party, right? But don’t you worry, you’re not alone in this. As your residential roofing experts, we’re here to guide you through the steps to take when you’re facing a leak. So grab a bucket for that drip, and let’s get started!

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

First things first: don’t panic. We know it’s easier said than done, but it’s important to take a breath and assess the situation. Can you see where the leak is coming from? Is it a small trickle or a substantial flow? Your safety is paramount, so if there’s significant water intrusion or if it’s affecting electrical fixtures, you’ll need to turn off the power to that area and call a professional roofing company immediately.

Contain the Leak

Grab a bucket or any container to catch the water. If the leak is spreading, you might also lay down some towels or a tarp to protect your floors and furnishings. If you see bulging in your ceiling, that’s trapped water looking for an escape route — carefully poke a hole in the center of the bulge to let the water out and prevent the whole ceiling from collapsing.

Inspect When Possible

If it’s safe to do so, take a look in your attic or crawl space. Bring a flashlight, and keep an eye out for wet spots, mold, or damaged insulation. This can help you or a professional better understand the extent and location of the leak.

Document Everything

Snap some photos of further damage to the leak and any damage. This will be crucial for insurance purposes and for any professionals who may need to see the extent of the problem.

Call the Pros

Now, it’s time to bring in the cavalry — that’s us, your friendly neighborhood residential and roofing contractor and services. Leaks can be tricky; they might not originate from where you see the water. Our trained eyes and expertise are critical in not just fixing the leak but preventing future breaches.

Don’t Delay Repairs

A small leak might not seem like a big deal, but trust us, find roof leaks and it’s like an iceberg — what you see is only the tip of the problem. Left unchecked, it can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and a whole host of other issues. Prompt roof maintenance is the key to keeping a small problem from becoming a full-blown disaster.

Think Long Term

Once the immediate roof leak repair is handled, it’s worth considering the overall health of your roof. Is it getting up there in years? Have you been keeping up with regular maintenance? Sometimes a roof leak is a sign that there’s more work to be done. That’s where comprehensive residential roofing services come in. From repairs to residential roofing installation, Robbins Roofing has the skills to ensure your roof is in top-notch condition.

Choose Quality and Experience

When you’re faced with a leaking roof, you want someone who knows their stuff. That’s why choosing residential roofing experts (like us, Robbins Roofing!) is crucial. With years of experience and a keen eye for detail, we’ll sort out your leak and help you protect your home from prevent future roof leaks and rain-induced headaches.

20 Common Signs That You May Have A Roof Leak(s)

Water Stains: Those unsightly brown stains on your ceilings or walls are like the roof’s version of an SOS signal.

Dripping Sounds: It’s not a new ambient music track; it’s the tell-tale sound of a leak that’s made its way inside.

Mold or Mildew: Especially in the corners of ceilings or exterior walls, this is a sign moisture’s been hanging around.

Musty Odors: That old-book smell might be charming in a library, but in your house, it suggests trapped moisture and decay.

Curled or Buckling Shingles: These are signs that the shingles are past their prime, and roof leaks are inevitable if you leave this problem for too long.

Missing or Damaged Shingles: Like missing puzzle pieces, damaged or missing shingles indicate your your roofing material’s protective layer has been compromised.

Damaged Flashing: Flashing is your roof’s best defense around vents small holes, skylights, and chimneys. If it’s damaged, water may be sneaking in.

Granules in the Gutters: These little bits of your asphalt shingles that can wash off over time, but a sudden increase could indicate major wear and tear.

Higher Water Bills: If you’ve ruled out other causes and your bill is still climbing, unseen leaks might be the culprit.

Sagging Roof Deck: If the roof vents on it looks wavy or saggy, water may be weighing it down.

Daylight Through the Roof Boards: If you can see the sky, it’s a safe bet that water can see its way in too.

Peeling or Bubbling Paint: When water gets under your paint, it separates it from the surface, leading to peeling or blistering.

Stained Attic Ceilings: The attic will show signs of leaks first, so check for water stains on the underside of the roof.

Wet Insulation: If your insulation is soggy, it’s not just ineffective—it’s likely a sign of leaks.

Pooling Water: Especially on flat roofs, pools of water can indicate a depressed or damaged area where water is seeping through.

Algae or Moss Growth: These green guests love moisture, and their presence can indicate trapped water.

Clogged Downspouts: If water isn’t flowing freely from your downspouts, it can back up under your shingles.

Ice Dams: In colder climates, these ridges of ice can form at the edge of the roof and prevent melting snow from draining.

Popping Nails: Sometimes nails can pop out of place, allowing water to enter around the hole.

Energy Bills Spiking: Unexplained spikes in your heating or cooling bills could be due to outside air entering through leaks.

If you’re nodding along and ticking off these boxes, it’s time to call in the cavalry — that’s us, Robbins Roofing! We’re the residential roofing experts who’ll swoop in, assess the damage, and give you the peace of mind you deserve. A leak-free home is a happy home, after all.

When to Call in a Professional Roofing Contractor for Your Leaking Roof?

Knowing when to call in a professional roofer is crucial, not just for your own professional roofer’s sake, but for your safety, too. So here are a few scenarios when it’s time to pick up the phone:

When the Leak is Playing Hide and Seek

If you’ve spotted signs of a leak but can’t locate the source, it’s time for the pros. We have the know-how and the tools to play detective and track down where that water is coming from.

If the Leak is More Like a Flood

When your bucket is filling up as fast as you can empty it, this isn’t a drill—it’s an emergency. A big leak can quickly cause structural damage, and that’s when you need our emergency response services, stat.

When You See Significant Damage

If your shingles are in shambles or your flashing has flown the coop, these are signs that the leak might be part of a bigger problem. Professional contractors, like your buddies at Robbins Roofing, can assess and address the damage efficiently.

If There’s Been a Storm Recently

Post-storm damage can be deceptive. Even if you think your roof weathered the storm, hidden damage can lead to leaks down the road. An expert eye can spot roof leaks and fix these issues before they escalate.

When the Roof is Getting on in Years

Age isn’t just a number when it comes to your roof. If your roof’s older than the latest pop sensation, it’s wise to have professionals take a look. We can give you an honest assessment of your roof’s condition and life expectancy.

If You’ve Made Repairs, But the Leak Persists

If you’ve tried to fix it and you’re still hearing ‘drip, drip, drip,’ it’s time to call in the cavalry. There’s no shame in it; some leaks are just stubborn.

When Safety is a Concern

If there’s any risk involved—like the need to climb on a high or steep roof—please, leave it to us. Your well-being is worth more than any roof.

Before the Damage Spreads

Water is a sneaky adversary. It can travel far from the initial leak and cause problems you can’t see. Before a small leak becomes a big headache, get professional roofers to take a comprehensive look.

When Peace of Mind is Priceless

Sometimes, you just need the assurance that comes from professional service. Sleep easy knowing that the repair is done right when you trust the task to a roofing professional.

If you’re experiencing any of these situations, or if your gut is telling you that something’s just not right, reach out to Robbins Roofing. We’re not just roofers; we’re your residential roofing experts, your allies against the elements, and your partners in keeping your home safe and dry.

Remember, roof leaks may be common, but they’re not invincible—not on our watch. We’re here to help, with all the expertise, experience, and elbow grease needed to fix the problem and fix it good.

Remember, a leak isn’t the end of the world, although it might feel like it at the moment. With quick action, a level head, and the right team on your side, you can turn a potential disaster into a mere blip on your radar.

If your roof has decided to let in more than just sunshine, reach out to Robbins Roofing for the best roofing repair services. We’re here to ensure your peace of mind, from the first sign of a leak to the final shingle of a whole new roof installation. Give us a call, and let’s get your home back to being the cozy fortress it should be.