What to do if my roof is leaking

When our teams respond to a leaking roof, they often find that the source of the problem isn’t directly related to the roof itself.

What appears to be water infiltration may actually stem from a plumbing issue, a blocked rainwater column, poorly sealed windows, or damaged exterior siding.

So, how can you tell if it’s your roof that’s leaking or another source of moisture?
To help you react quickly and call the right professional, here are a few tips from our experts.

How to identify a leaking roof

Where is the water infiltration located?

The exact location of the moisture is a first clue. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Are the moisture marks concentrated in a single spot?
• Are they located in a bathroom, kitchen, or directly below those rooms?

If the infiltration is located beneath a room with plumbing installations, the issue is likely coming from the pipes rather than the roof.

Which floor is affected by the water infiltration?

Water infiltration from the roof typically begins on the top floor.
If moisture is found in the basement or on the ground floor, with no signs on the upper levels, chances are the leak is due to a plumbing or drainage problem.

In fact, a blocked rainwater column can cause water to back up and seep into the building.

Are the walls showing signs of moisture?

Visual signs such as:

• Peeling or bubbling paint
• Black spots in the corners
• Water streaks along the walls

May be caused by a leaking roof, but also by poorly sealed windows or damaged exterior siding.
If the infiltration worsens during rain with wind, the issue may be with your windows’ waterproofing.

Leaking roof in winter: specific causes

During the cold season, several factors can lead to a leaking roof:

• Ice and snow buildup: Ice dams block the normal flow of melting water, forcing it under the shingles.
• Excessive condensation: Poor attic insulation or ventilation can create high humidity, resulting in leaks.
• Expansion and contraction of materials: Temperature changes weaken joints and membranes, allowing water to penetrate.

What to react if your roof is leaking ?

If your observations confirm that the leak is indeed coming from the roof, here’s what to do:

Identify the precise leak area: Check if the water is running in line with the rainwater column—an obstruction could be the cause.

Inspect roof drains: A blocked drain can cause water to accumulate and back up.

Call a roofer: A professional can assess the condition of your roof and carry out the necessary repairs.

Prevention: stop leaks before they appear

• Perform regular roof maintenance: Inspect and clean drains and gutters before and after winter.
• Check insulation and ventilation: Poor ventilation promotes condensation buildup.
• Seal vulnerable areas: Flashings, joints, and cracks should be inspected and repaired as needed.

Contact our experts if you have an emergency!

As roofing specialists, Les Couvreurs Duro-Toit respond quickly to diagnose and repair any roof leak.
Whether it’s an emergency, a preventive inspection, or a renovation project, our skilled team provides long-lasting, effective solutions.

Contact us today for a free evaluation and take advantage of our professional roofers’ expertise. We do everything we can to ensure your roof’s waterproofing and durability, no matter the type of building.