Why does a roof start leaking?
Roof leaks can occur for various reasons. Sometimes worn roofing is to blame; in other cases it is incorrectly installed flashing, a damaged seal or mechanical damage.
Common causes include damaged roofing, leaking flashing, damaged waterproofing, loose fixings, storm damage, blocked drainage and ageing materials.
Important: the place where water is visible indoors does not always match the actual location of the damage. Water can travel beneath the covering and along structural elements. Roof repairs therefore begin with identifying the cause.
Common roof leaks and their repair
Roof leaking around a chimney
Chimney flashing is where the roof covering meets a vertical structure. Correctly installed flashing elements and waterproofing ensure watertightness. Over time, the joints can lose their seal.
Signs: damp in the attic around the chimney, water marks on the chimney, ceiling stains or leaks during heavy rain.
Possible repairs: repairing or replacing flashing elements and renewing waterproofing. The chimney masonry and top must also be checked, as the leak may originate there.
Roof leaking around ventilation outlets
Ventilation outlets and pipes pass through the roofing, so they require watertight flashing suited to the roof material. Leaks can occur when seals age or crack.
Signs: damp around the pipe, water marks on structural elements, cracked seals, leaks after rain or snowmelt.
Possible repairs: replacing damaged seals or flashing, checking fixings and repairing waterproofing with suitable materials.
Roof leaking around a roof window
A roof window needs a correct connection to the roofing and drainage system. Water may enter due to damaged flashing, incorrect installation, blocked drainage or defects in the window.
Signs: damp around the window opening, dripping along the frame, damp finishes, leaks during wind-driven rain.
Possible repairs: checking the flashing, repairing or replacing damaged parts and restoring proper drainage. The window itself is not always at fault.
Roof leaking in a valley
A roof valley is where two roof slopes meet and rainwater is concentrated. Even minor damage can cause a leak.
Common causes: damaged waterproofing, incorrect joints, mechanical damage, accumulated leaves and branches, or worn materials.
Possible repairs: checking valley elements, repairing damaged roofing or waterproofing and restoring drainage.
Roof leaking at a wall abutment
Roof connections to walls, dormers and other vertical structures must protect the building from water ingress. Damaged flashing can channel water beneath the covering.
Signs: damp patches near external walls, damaged finishes, visible cracks or detached flashing elements.
Possible repairs: repairing metal flashing, seals or waterproofing as appropriate to the structure.
Damaged roofing
Wind, hail, branches, improper walking on the roof and long-term wear can damage roofing. Bitumen shingles may be lifted, broken or missing; metal roofing may have corrosion or leaking joints; tiles may be cracked or displaced.
Possible repairs: replacement of damaged elements or localised repairs, where the technical condition of the particular roofing system permits.
Leaking flat roof
Continuous waterproofing, correct drainage and high-quality flashing are essential for flat roofs. Leaks may be caused by damaged seams, mechanical damage, aged roofing or problematic flashing.
Signs: ponding water, visible waterproofing damage, damp patches indoors, leaks after precipitation, damage near penetrations or parapets.
Possible repairs: after an inspection, localised waterproofing repairs, seam renewal or more extensive work can be considered. The method depends on the existing roofing system.
Roof leaking around screws and fixings
On some roof coverings, fixings are exposed to rain and snow. Seals can age, screws can loosen, or damage can develop around fixings.
Signs: water marks around fixings, cracked seals, corrosion or leaks during rain.
Possible repairs: checking fixings, replacing damaged elements and restoring watertight joints.
How are roof repairs carried out?
- 1. Contact. Describe where and when the roof leaks and send photos if possible.
- 2. Inspection. We assess the signs of damage, the condition of the covering and possible points of water entry.
- 3. Choosing a solution. We determine whether localised repairs, replacement of elements or more extensive work is suitable.
- 4. Repairs. We carry out the agreed work in accordance with the roof structure and materials.
- 5. Assessment of results. We check the completed work and, where possible, the condition of the repaired area.
Emergency roof repairs – what to do if your roof leaks?
If a serious leak suddenly develops in your roof, first limit the damage caused by water:
- Place a container beneath the drip if it is safe to do so.
- Move belongings away from the damp area.
- If water is near electrical wiring, do not use affected appliances and contact a qualified specialist if necessary.
- Do not climb onto a wet, icy or steep roof.
- Photograph the damage and contact a roof repair specialist.
Sometimes a temporary solution is needed before permanent repairs can be carried out. Contact us and describe the situation. We do not promise a specific emergency call-out time without a separate agreement.
Can a leaking roof be repaired without replacing the entire covering?
In many cases, leaks are caused by specific damage: leaking flashing, a damaged shingle or a damaged area of waterproofing. If the remaining covering is in good condition, localised repairs may be economically justified. In cases of widespread wear or recurring leaks, more extensive repairs or replacement must also be considered.
General information: Roof repairsWhy choose us?
Experience from 400+ roof jobs. Our experience in roof cleaning, maintenance and repairs also helps us assess the overall condition of a roof.
An individual approach. Every roof and every leak is different.
Roof maintenance in one place. We offer roof repairs, moss removal, gutter cleaning and other roof maintenance services.
Roof moss removalGutter cleaningA responsible approach. We aim to be the best.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the roof leak only during heavy rain?
Water may enter through a joint that becomes problematic when there is more water or wind from a particular direction. The exact cause needs to be checked.
Why does the roof leak in winter but not in summer?
The cause may be snowmelt, ice blockages, damaged joints or condensation. Not every damp patch means the covering is leaking.
Can a roof leak be found without removing the covering?
Sometimes yes, during a visual inspection. More complex cases require a detailed investigation or exposing individual elements.
Can a roof leak be fixed with sealant?
In some cases, a suitable sealant may form part of the repair, but filling a crack does not always address the cause of the damage.
Will the leak definitely stop after roof repairs?
Repairing correctly identified damage can resolve that particular leak. However, the roof may also have other damage that is not initially visible.
Roof leaking? Contact us!
Do not let a small roof leak turn into extensive moisture damage. Send photos of the roof, state the building’s location and briefly describe the problem.
Kārtība Tīrība — clean work and a clear conscience.
Phone: +371 26006111
Email: info@kartibatiriba.lv