Most roofs do not need replacing when something goes wrong. A few missing shingles, a cracked vent boot or loose flashing can often be repaired quickly, and fixing them early stops water from damaging the roof boards, the attic and the ceilings below.
Sifixit is a free referral service. Call the number on this page and you will be connected with an independent roofing provider where one serves your area. Calling costs nothing and you are never obliged to hire anyone.
Signs your roof needs repair
Look for these from the ground, in the gutters and in the attic.
- A drip or stain on a ceiling after rain
- Missing, cracked or curled shingles
- Shingle granules collecting in gutters
- Loose or rusted flashing around a chimney or skylight
- Damp insulation or stains on the attic roof boards
- Nails that have backed out and lifted shingles
What to do right now
Do not climb onto the roof, especially when it is wet, windy or icy. Work from inside and let a professional go up.
- Put a bucket under any drip and protect the floor
- Move belongings away from the leak
- Check the attic, if safe, and note where water is coming in
- Take photos of the damage inside and out
- Ask about an emergency tarp if rain is expected
- Call a roofing provider
What usually causes roof leaks
Damaged shingles
Wind, hail and age can crack, lift or tear off shingles and expose the roof below.
Flashing
The metal around chimneys, vents, skylights and walls can loosen, rust or lose its seal.
Vent boots
The rubber seals around plumbing vent pipes crack in the sun and let water run down the pipe.
Clogged gutters
Water that cannot drain can back up under the edge of the roof and into the walls.
How a professional repairs a roof
- The roofer inspects the roof and the attic to find the real source of the leak.
- Damaged shingles are removed and replaced with a matching type where possible.
- Flashing is resealed or replaced, and vent boots are swapped out.
- Any soft or rotten roof boards found under the damage are replaced.
- The roofer checks the attic and ceilings for water damage that needs drying.
How to make repairs last
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear
- Trim branches that hang over the roof
- Have the roof checked after hail or strong wind
- Make sure the attic is well ventilated
- Fix small problems before the next rainy season
Questions to ask before you hire
- Can you show me photos of the damage you found?
- Will the new shingles match the old ones?
- Did you find any soft or rotten roof boards?
- What warranty do you give on the repair?
- Will you check the attic and ceiling for water damage?
Frequently asked questions
How long does a roof repair take?
Most small repairs take a few hours. Larger repairs, or ones that need matching materials, can take longer.
Can a leaking roof be repaired in the rain?
Permanent repairs usually need dry weather. In the meantime, a roofer can put a tarp over the damaged area.
Is it worth repairing an old roof?
If the roof is near the end of its life and has several problems, replacement may make more sense. Ask the roofer for an honest opinion.
Does insurance cover roof repair?
Sudden storm or hail damage is often covered. Wear and tear usually is not. Take photos and call your insurer early.
Learn more
Our main roofing guide covers the wider picture, including what affects the cost and when to call a professional.
Sifixit is a free referral service and does not provide home services. Calls may be answered by a partner call center or connected directly to independent local providers, who are solely responsible for their work, pricing, licensing and insurance.