How do you fix a leaking roof?
Short answer. To fix a leaking roof for good, first trace the leak to its true source, then repair that specific part: replace a cracked pipe boot, rebuild failed flashing, reseat and seal popped nails, replace damaged shingles, or clear and rebuild a valley. Most leak repairs cost a few hundred dollars, while flashing rebuilds or rotted decking run higher.
The permanent fix by source
- Pipe boot. One of the most common leaks on Georgia roofs. Lift the shingles above, remove the old boot, slide in a new one under the upper shingles and over the lower ones, nail under the shingles and reseal.
- Step flashing at walls and dormers. Remove the trim and shingles along the wall, install new step flashing one piece per course, add a kick-out at the bottom, and restore the siding.
- Chimney flashing. New step and counterflashing, plus a cricket on wide chimneys.
- Nail pops. Pull the popped nail, drive a new one just beside it, and seal the old hole and the new head under the shingle above.
- Missing or cracked shingles. Replace with matching shingles, nailed in the correct zone and resealed.
- Valleys. Clear debris; if water has gotten under, rebuild with ice and water membrane and new shingles or valley metal.
- Vents. Replace cracked plastic box vents and refasten ridge vents with the right nails.
What not to do
- Smear roof cement over the area above the stain and call it fixed.
- Caulk around the base of a cracked pipe boot.
- Seal everything from the attic side.
What it costs
Simple fixes like a pipe boot or a few shingles commonly cost a few hundred dollars. Flashing rebuilds, valley work or decking replacement cost more. If the roof is old and leaking in several places, replacement may be the better use of money. See common causes of roof leaks and pipe boot leaks.