After a heavy rainfall passes, you may notice a stain on the ceiling or detect a musty odor in the attic. These are some signs of a roof leak, and various factors can cause it. Learn about the most common causes of roof leaks after heavy rain and discover effective ways to prevent them.

How to Detect a Roof Leak

A leak from heavy rain — if left unrepaired — can lead to serious damage. Detecting it early can help prevent this from happening. Keep an eye on the following signs:

  • Sagging areas on the roof
  • Overflowing gutters
  • Little or no water coming from downspouts
  • Wet spots in the attic
  • Brown or yellow stains in the drywall or ceiling
  • Bubbling or peeling paint
  • Persistent musty odor

What Are the Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks After Heavy Rain?

The common causes of roof leaks after a storm include:

  • Damaged or missing shingles: This is often the main culprit. Shingles can be damaged by prolonged sun exposure, hail and high winds. A compromised shingle can create roof leaks after heavy rain.
  • Clogged gutters: When your gutters are filled with debris, rainwater cannot drain properly during a heavy downpour. The water may pool along the roof’s edge and seep underneath the shingles.
  • Cracked vent boots: Plumbing vents or pipes that protrude from your roof are sealed by a rubber boot. Over time, it can become brittle and crack, breaking the seal and allowing water to leak down along the vent pipe.

What to Do After Discovering a Roof Leak?

Catch and contain leaking water with buckets, pans, or towels under drips to protect the floors. Move your belongings away from the leak’s direction and cover them with plastic. Use fans and dehumidifiers in the area to prevent mold growth. 

If it is safe and dry outside, cover the roof with a waterproof and UV-resistant tarpaulin for temporary protection. Select a size bigger than the damaged area. Use wooden boards or other heavy items to secure the tarpaulin in place.

When You Need to Call a Professional for Roof Leaks After Heavy Rain

While some issues may seem minor, they often indicate more significant problems that require an expert's attention. Various roofing companies offer specialized services for diagnosing and fixing complex roofing issues. Here are signs you need to call a pro when you have roof leaks after heavy rain.

  • The Damage Was Caused by a Storm

A recent high-wind event or hailstorm has damaged your roof. Now, you’re worried about leaks and the daunting task of navigating a homeowner’s insurance claim. A seasoned expert like Fraser Roofing can help address the common causes of roof leaks after heavy rain. 

The company specializes in storm damage and insurance support. As a “Top 100 Roofing Company,” its services include professional documentation of the damage, insurance process guidance and speedy roof repairs. The comprehensive support turns a crisis into a manageable situation.

Location: Georgia (Metro Atlanta, Central GA), South Carolina (Upstate/Spartanburg) and Tennessee (Knoxville)

Key Features

  • Residential roof replacement
  • Small and large-scale roof repairs
  • Gutter installation and repair

  • The Leak Involves Complex or Detailed Areas 

If the water damage appears around a chimney, skylight or where two roof planes meet, you need to call a roofing company with attention to detail. A roofing expert like J and J Roofing can handle delicate repairs. The company offers roof repair, coating and replacement services, providing quality materials and excellent customer service.

Location: Los Angeles

Key Features

  • Free consultation
  • Various positive reviews
  • Transparent and fair pricing

  • When You Suspect Widespread Material Failure

Shingles that curl, crack or shed granules across large sections of your roof need professional inspection and repair. A certified contractor specializing in high-quality roof replacements, such as Go Pro Roofing, is a solid choice. Its staff are trained by Owens Corning, GAF and CertainTeed, making them qualified in installing a high-performance roofing system.

Location: Utah

Key Features

  • Certified Owens Corning Preferred Contractors
  • Fully licensed and insured roofing company
  • Free estimates

  • When You Have an Active Emergency

An active or massive leak can result in potential physical damage and a significant financial burden. A post-storm roof repair can cost around $650, while a complete replacement can cost you about $6,000. To prevent a minor problem from escalating into a more costly one, an immediate response is necessary. 

In urban environments, a company like Smart Roofers NY can address emergencies. The 24/7 availability means it can dispatch a team to address urgent leaks, providing you with peace of mind and safety.

Location: New York City

Key Features

  • Comprehensive roof inspection
  • Strong focus on flat roof installation
  • Siding installation and repair

How to Choose the Best Roofing Experts 

The roofing professionals were selected based on the following criteria:

  • Specialization: Each company highlights a specific expertise that directly solves a common problem associated with roof leaks after heavy rain.
  • Industry authority: The service providers have manufacturer certifications, industry recognitions, and are licensed and insured.
  • Relevance: All selected companies cater to residential properties and clearly indicate their services, such as roof repair and replacement.

Address Roof Leaks Before They Progress

With the common causes of roof leaks after a heavy downpour, you can find the best professional in your area. Invest in routine checkups to help keep your roof and home dry for years to come.