The usual suspects
| Location | Typical failure | Clue |
|---|---|---|
| Chimney and wall joints | Failed step or counter flashing | Stain follows the wall line |
| Valleys | Worn shingle edge, debris dam | Leak during heavy rain |
| Pipe and vent boots | Cracked rubber collar | Drip near a bathroom or kitchen vent |
| Eaves | Ice dam backing water under shingles | Winter-only stains near exterior walls |
| Skylights | Flashing or seal failure | Ring stain around the frame |
What you can do before anyone arrives
- Move belongings and place a bucket under active drips
- Photograph stains and note the date and weather
- Puncture a bulging ceiling bubble only to relieve water into a container, if safe
- Stay off the roof in snow, ice or wind
- Keep damaged materials if a claim may follow
How a repair visit works
Trace
Attic first, then exterior, matching interior stains to roof features.
Confirm
Check for secondary causes such as ventilation or condensation.
Repair
Replace failed components rather than smearing sealant over them.
Report
Photos of what was found and what was done.
When repair is not the answer
If the surrounding shingles are brittle, a repair can fail beside itself within months. We say so plainly and put replacement on the table with the evidence.
Common questions
It is a short-term patch at best. Lasting repairs replace the failed part.
Ice dams and warm attic air melting snow from beneath are common causes. Ventilation and insulation are part of the solution.