Ever had that “uh-oh” moment when you spot a water stain on your ceiling? Maybe it started as a tiny discoloration, but now it’s spreading, and you’re wondering, “Is my roof leaking?” Here’s the thing—roof leaks don’t fix themselves. If left alone, that small stain can turn into water damage, mold, or even structural issues.
At MAD Roofing, we’ve seen it all—roofs with missing shingles, improperly sealed chimneys, clogged gutters, and even leaks caused by tiny cracks invisible to the untrained eye. The good news? Most leaks can be traced back to a handful of common issues. Knowing what to look for can help you catch problems early and prevent costly repairs.
So, let’s dive in. Here are the most common causes of roof leaks and what you can do to stop them.
Damaged or Missing Shingles
When shingles go missing, leaks move in. Think of shingles as your roof’s armor. When high winds, hail, or old age cause shingles to crack, curl, or disappear, the layer beneath is exposed, allowing water to seep into your home.
Some of the most common warning signs include:
- Bare spots where shingles are missing
- Granules piling up in your gutters
- Curled or lifted edges
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
MAD Roofing installs high-quality asphalt shingles designed for durability and always reinforces vulnerable areas with ice and water protection to prevent leaks. If your shingles have seen better days, we’ll make sure your roof is properly sealed and built to last.
Flashing and Sealant Failures
Flashing is the metal barrier that seals gaps around chimneys, skylights, vents, and valleys. If it’s cracked, rusted, or installed incorrectly, water can sneak in and cause significant damage to your home.
Common flashing issues include:
- Loose or missing metal strips
- Dried-out sealant around vents and skylights
- Water stains around your fireplace or ceiling edges
Our team carefully inspects and secures all flashing with professional-grade sealants, ensuring water stays where it belongs—outside. By following strict manufacturer guidelines, we make sure your roof remains leak-free for years to come.
Clogged Gutters: The Hidden Leak Maker
Your gutters aren’t just for decoration. They redirect rainwater away from your roof and foundation, preventing water from pooling where it shouldn’t. When leaves, dirt, and debris clog them up, water overflows and soaks the edges of your roof, leading to slow and sneaky leaks.
Signs of gutter trouble include:
- Water overflowing during rainstorms
- Sagging or pulling gutters
- Ice buildup in winter
In Salt Lake City, where snowfall can be heavy, clogged gutters can contribute to ice dam formation and severe roof damage. MAD Roofing offers seamless gutters, box gutters, and gutter guards to keep water flowing smoothly. If your gutters are working against your roof instead of protecting it, we can help.
Ice Dams and the Freeze-Thaw Effect
Winter weather can take a serious toll on your roof. In Salt Lake City, fluctuating temperatures cause snow to melt and refreeze, leading to ice dams that prevent proper drainage. When water backs up under the shingles, it can lead to hidden leaks that may not be noticeable until serious damage has occurred.
Ice dam warning signs include:
- Icicles hanging from your roof
- Water stains on ceilings after a snowstorm
- Uneven melting patterns on your roof
We install high-grade ice and water protection in key areas to prevent ice dam formation. Proper attic insulation and ventilation also play a big role, and we’ll check that too.
Roof Valleys: The Weak Spot You Didn’t Know Existed
A roof valley is where two slopes meet, guiding rain and melting snow downward. If this area isn’t properly sealed, it becomes a prime spot for leaks.
Signs of a valley leak include:
- Water stains following a diagonal path on your ceiling
- Excessive granule loss in valley areas
- Loose or missing materials in the valley
Our team reinforces valleys with durable underlayment and strategic overlapping, ensuring water flows away from your home instead of into it.
Skylights and Chimneys: Beauty or a Beastly Leak?
Skylights brighten up a room, but if they aren’t sealed properly, they can allow rain to seep into your home. Chimneys are another common weak spot. If the mortar deteriorates or the flashing isn’t tight, water can enter your attic and walls, leading to damage over time.
We inspect and re-seal skylights and chimneys to stop leaks before they start. If we spot damage, we reinforce these areas with high-quality flashing and waterproof sealants.
An Aging Roof
If your roof is over 20 to 30 years old, natural wear and tear can lead to leaks—even if everything looks fine on the surface. Poor installations also speed up the aging process, especially if corners were cut on materials or sealing techniques.
Some of the most common warning signs include:
- Recurring leaks
- Sagging roof areas
- Higher energy bills due to poor insulation
MAD Roofing uses advanced inspection technology to pinpoint weak spots and offer the best replacement options. With our Owens Corning Preferred Protection Warranty, your new roof will be covered for 50 years.
Don’t Let a Small Leak Turn Into a Big Problem
A leaking roof doesn’t just go away—it gets worse. Whether it’s damaged shingles, faulty flashing, or winter ice buildup, ignoring the issue will only lead to more costly repairs down the road. If you’re searching for the reasons your roof is leaking, addressing the problem sooner rather than later can save you time, money, and stress.
If you notice signs of roof damage, now is the time to act. Call MAD Roofing today at 801-900-3296 or email info@madroofers.com to schedule an inspection. Our team is ready to protect your home with expert roofing solutions that last.
