With our hot, humid summers and frequent storms, especially during hurricane season, leaking roofs are a common problem for homeowners in Beaumont. Even a small roof leak can lead to serious issues like water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs if it’s not addressed quickly.
The good news? Minor leaks caused by things like a missing shingle or a small crack in flashing can sometimes be patched temporarily by a handy homeowner.
But when it comes to anything bigger, or if you’re unsure where the leak is coming from, it’s always smart to call a professional roofing contractor. Roof repairs can be dangerous, and a quick patch may not hold up against Beaumont’s unpredictable weather.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to identify a small roof leak, how to fix a leaking roof, and when it’s time to pick up the phone and call in the experts.
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Common Causes of Roof Leaks in Beaumont
Unfortunately, leaking roofs are not uncommon in Beaumont. Heavy rainfall and tropical storms are common in Southeast Texas. Wind can rip shingles off your roof, and it can drive rain under them.
Additionally, humidity can cause significant wear and tear over time. Heat-related expansion and contraction can damage the seals on your roof, and clogged gutters can cause water to back up on your roof.
All this to say, you have to be on the lookout for signs of roof damage and potential roof leaks.
How To Spot a Roof Leak
There are a number of tell-tale signs that indicate you may have a roof leak.
Signs Inside The Home
Start by looking for water stains on your ceiling or walls. Also, look for a damp, musty smell in areas of your home. Peeling paint or wallpaper is another indication that your roof may be leaking. If you hear dripping sounds during heavy rain or see mold or mildew growth, that’s another sign that you’re dealing with a leaking roof.
If you notice any of these signs inside your home, it’s important to take action immediately to prevent further damage.
Worried about leaks in your roof? Contact us today for a FREE roof inspection and consultation.
Signs Outside The Home
If you notice that your roof has cracked, curled, or missing shingles, it can be a sign that you’ve got a roof leak. Also, look for discolored spots, along with moss or algae growth. Damaged flashing around your chimney or roof vents can also point to a leaky roof.
Don’t wait to get these problems fixed. A leaking roof can cause structural damage to your roof and home if left untreated. It can also lead to mold growth, which can be hazardous to your health.
How To Fix a Small Roof Leak
(Note: These are temporary fixes for very minor issues. If you’re unsure, contact M&M Roofing, Siding, and Windows to fix the issue.)
Locate The Source of the Leak
First, you need to determine where the roof leak is.
Inspecting your attic during rainfall can help you pinpoint the exact source of the leak. Here are some tips to make the process easier:
- Use a Bright Flashlight – Ensure you have a powerful flashlight to illuminate dark areas and spot any reflections from water droplets.
- Look for Dripping Water – Watch for any visible signs of dripping or flowing water. Follow the path of the water to trace it to the source.
- Check for Stains or Wet Spots – Look carefully at the ceiling, insulation, and rafters for any wet spots, stains, or discoloration that may indicate the point of entry.
- Listen for Dripping Sounds – Sometimes, the sound of water dripping can help you identify areas to inspect more closely.
By combining visual clues with auditory cues, you can better locate the leak’s source for further repair action.
Patch Small Leaks
If you find a minor roof leak, there are some steps you can take to repair it. Use roofing sealant for any tiny cracks or holes in your flashing. For small punctures in your shingles or underlayment, roof tape or a roof patch kit may be enough to plug the leak.
If the problem lies with a specific shingle that’s in a safe and accessible place, you can carefully remove the old shingle and replace it with a new one. Make sure it’s nailed down and thoroughly sealed.
Seal Around Fixtures and Vents
Another common cause of roof leaks is around fixtures or vents that protrude from the roof. These can include chimneys, plumbing vents, or HVAC units.
To seal around these fixtures, you’ll need roofing cement and a caulking gun. First, clean any debris or dirt from the area around the fixture. Then, apply a generous amount of roofing cement around the base of the fixture and smooth it out with a putty knife. Finally, add a layer of caulk to create a watertight seal.
Clear Clogged Gutters
As we noted above, clogged gutters can cause water to back up on your roof and lead to roof leaks. To prevent this, it’s important to regularly clean out your gutters. Use a ladder and scoop any debris or leaves from the gutter. Be sure to wear gloves and protective eyewear when doing this task.
When to Call a Professional Roofing Contractor
There are times when you shouldn’t try to fix a leaking roof yourself and should contact a professional roofing contractor.
If the leak is large or involves multiple areas, you need to bring in a professional to fix your roof. Additionally, if the leak is causing structural damage to your house, such as rotting wood or a sagging roof deck, you shouldn’t try to fix it yourself.
It’s especially important to bring a roofing contractor if your roof is steep or unsafe to access.
A professional roofing contractor has the necessary training, experience, and equipment to safely and effectively fix your roof.
It’s important to note that Beaumont’s tough climate can accelerate roof wear, so you may need to make repairs or replace your roof sooner than you expected.
Do you need to repair or replace your roof? Contact us today for a FREE roof inspection and consultation!
The Importance Of Working With A Local Contractor
There are a number of reasons why it’s really important to work with a local roofing contractor.
Local contractors understand the challenges of Gulf Coast weather. They are familiar with hurricanes, tropical storms, heat, and humidity. They know what materials and techniques work best for roofs in this area.
Additionally, working with a local contractor means they can easily come out for repairs or maintenance when needed. With unpredictable weather patterns, it’s important to have a roofing professional who is readily available to address any issues that may arise.
What’s more, local Beaumont roofing contractors also understand the local building codes and permit laws. And, they can provide long-term solutions that small patches can’t fix.
M&M Roofing, Siding, and Windows is local to the area and has been serving Beaumont and surrounding areas for more than 40 years. With more than 1,000 positive Google reviews, you can be 100% sure that you’re in capable hands. We’ve thousands of roof jobs and know exactly what is necessary to expertly install a new roof in Beaumont.
Final Thoughts
A small roof leak might seem like a minor inconvenience, but in a place like Beaumont, where heavy rain, high humidity, and intense storms are part of life, even a tiny leak can turn into a big problem fast.
If you’ve found a minor issue, like a missing shingle or a small crack around a vent, some quick DIY repairs can serve as a temporary fix.
However, anything beyond a simple patch is best left to the professionals. Roofing work can be dangerous, and without the right tools, materials, and experience, you could end up causing more damage or putting yourself at risk.
Plus, a professional roofing contractor knows how to make repairs that will stand up to the unique challenges of Beaumont’s Gulf Coast climate.
If you’re dealing with a roof leak and aren’t sure how serious it is, don’t wait. Contact M&M Roofing, Siding, and Windows for a FREE roof inspection and consultation. We’ll send one of our local roofing experts to inspect your roof for any signs of damage. Once the inspection is complete, they’ll provide you with a full rundown of what they found and what the next steps are.
Don’t let something that seems small turn into a major issue. Contact us today.
M&M Roofing, Siding, and Windows has been serving Texas homeowners for over 40 years. Call us or complete the request form to schedule a FREE inspection and consultation.
