How to Spot and Fix Roof Leaks Before They Worsen | All About Roofing & Construction
Roof leaks are one of the most common and costly problems homeowners face — and in Clovis, New Mexico, our combination of high winds, hail, and sudden storms makes early leak detection essential. At All About Roofing & Construction, we’ve seen firsthand how small leaks can quickly spiral into major repairs if left untreated.
This guide will walk you through how to identify a leak in its earliest stages, common causes of leaks in our area, and steps you can take to fix the problem before it worsens.
1. Early Warning Signs of a Roof Leak
Leaks aren’t always obvious. In many cases, water can travel along rafters or under insulation before it shows up inside your home. Watch for:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls — Brown or yellow discoloration is a major red flag.
- Drips or puddles — Especially after heavy rain or hailstorms.
- Musty odors — Indicate hidden moisture and potential mold growth.
- Peeling paint or bubbling drywall — Often caused by water intrusion.
Our 5 Signs Your Roof Needs Professional Repair guide offers even more ways to identify problems early.
2. Common Causes of Roof Leaks in Clovis, NM
Based on our local experience, these are the top culprits behind roof leaks:
- Damaged or missing shingles from wind or hail
- Cracked flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents
- Clogged gutters that force water under the roofing
- Poor roof ventilation leading to condensation buildup
- Old or deteriorated roofing materials
Many of these issues can be prevented through the steps outlined in our Roof Maintenance Tips guide.
3. Locating the Source of the Leak
Finding the actual entry point of a leak can be tricky. Here’s how we recommend approaching it:
- Check the attic — Look for wet insulation, stained rafters, or mold.
- Trace the water path — Remember, water can travel from the entry point before dripping inside.
- Inspect the roof surface — Focus on areas above the interior damage.
Pro Tip: Sometimes, leaks only appear during storms. Use a hose to simulate rainfall if you’re trying to pinpoint the source in dry weather — but only if it’s safe.
4. Temporary Fixes for Active Leaks
If you find a leak during a storm and can’t get immediate professional help, these temporary measures can limit damage:
- Place buckets or containers under drips to protect floors
- Cover damaged areas with a tarp (only when weather allows safe access)
- Remove excess water from ceilings to prevent collapse — puncture small holes to release trapped water if needed
These are stop-gap solutions only. Permanent repairs should be made as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
5. Permanent Leak Repairs
The right repair depends on the cause of the leak:
- Damaged shingles — Replace with matching shingles, ensuring proper overlap and sealing.
- Cracked flashing — Remove the old flashing and install new pieces, sealing with roofing cement.
- Worn sealant — Apply new sealant around vents, chimneys, and skylights.
- Gutter issues — Clean and secure gutters to ensure proper drainage.
For larger or more complex leaks, hiring a local roofing contractor ensures the problem is fully resolved.
6. Preventing Future Leaks
Prevention is always better than repair. You can reduce the risk of leaks by:
- Scheduling regular inspections (especially after storms)
- Keeping your roof and gutters clear of debris
- Replacing worn materials promptly
- Ensuring proper attic ventilation
- Choosing durable materials like those in our Best Roofing Materials list
When to Call a Professional
If you can’t locate the source of the leak, if the damage is widespread, or if the leak involves structural components, it’s time to call a pro. In Clovis, that means a contractor who understands our unique weather challenges — like the team at All About Roofing & Construction.
Related Reading
- Top Roof Maintenance Tips to Extend Your Roof’s Lifespan
- 5 Signs Your Roof Needs Professional Repair in Clovis, NM
- Why Local Experience Matters When Choosing a Roofing Contractor
Final Thoughts
Roof leaks may start small, but they rarely stay that way. The sooner you identify and repair a leak, the more money and stress you’ll save. By learning the warning signs, knowing where to look, and acting quickly, you can prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs.
For expert leak detection and repair in Clovis, call All About Roofing & Construction at (575) 218-0303 or email AARC2010@live.com. We’ll find and fix the problem fast — before it can do serious damage.