Roof Leaks in Heavy Rain? – Why & How to Fix It!

• January 4, 2025
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Nothing ruins a rainy day like the sound of dripping water from your ceiling. If your roof is leaking every time the skies open up, it’s not just an annoyance; it’s a sign something’s wrong.

Here’s the lowdown on why your roof might be betraying you during a downpour, and more importantly, how to put an end to those unwanted Roof leaks in heavy rain.

To pinpoint the source of the leak and understand the extent of the damage, consider a professional roof leak detection.

Is it normal for a roof to leak in heavy rain?

No, it’s not normal for a roof to leak during heavy rain.

Roofs are designed to handle heavy rain, with materials and angles that should direct water away from your home.

A well-installed roof with proper flashing around penetrations should keep out water even during heavy rain. However, your roof is old, poorly installed, or has been damaged, leaks can occur:

Age and Wear	Over time, roofing materials can degrade, leading to leaks.
Installation Flaws	Mistakes or shortcuts during installation can cause water to find its way in.
Weather Damage	Extreme weather can compromise even a new roof, making leaks possible.

Roof Leaks In Heavy Rain? How To Spot Easily

When the rain’s coming down like it’s trying to set a record, a leaky roof’s hard to miss. But catching these leaks early can save your home from turning into a swamp.

Here’s what to look for:

• Ceiling’s dripping like a leaky tap
• Water’s making tracks down your walls
• Streaks on the walls – like someone’s been painting with rain
• Stains on your ceiling, like abstract art gone wrong
• Mould popping up, uninvited
• Shingles doing the wave – buckling or curling
• Bits of your roof playing hide and seek
• Gutters overflowing like a beer at the pub
• Soft spots on your roof, like it’s sinking into a puddle
• Spotting a hole, not the golf kind
• Hearing the drip-drip of water in the roof space
• Wood going soft and squishy
• That unmistakable damp smell, like a wet dog’s been through

Why does my roof leak when it rains?

If you’re puzzled by why your roof turns into a sieve every time there’s a downpour, you’re not alone, here are some reasons;

Pipe Vents – The Secret Leaky Culprits

Over time, the seal around pipe vents—commonly referred to as the boot or flashing—can deteriorate, becoming brittle and cracked, much like a dry biscuit left out in the sun.

This wear and tear is a natural part of ageing materials, but it leaves your roof vulnerable to water intrusion.

FIX: The secret to keeping your fortress dry is in choosing the right materials. Insist on premium vent pipes; the cheap ones might save you a few bucks now but will cost you time and money later when you’re mopping up after every rain.

Skylights Leaking – Rain’s Uninvited Guests

Skylights are a brilliant way to brighten your home, but when the heavens open, they can become less about “natural light” and more about “indoor waterfall.”

Leaks are often caused by poor installation, rusted frames, or when leaves and debris decide your skylight is the perfect hangout spot.

Water can easily get trapped and sneak through tiny cracks.

FIX: Keep your skylight in great shape. Get a roofing Inspection expert to check for rust, clear out any leaves or twigs, and ensure the seals are snug. A little maintenance now will keep the rain outside and your living space sunny, no matter the weather.

Roof Tiles Broken – The Surprise Guests That Nobody Invited

A falling branch, a rogue roofer, or even your friendly antenna technician might unknowingly leave behind a little crack—or a big one.

Whether it’s ceramic tiles or traditional shingles, damaged tiles are like open invitations for leaks.

Left unchecked, they can lead to water stains, mold, or the kind of indoor swimming pool you really didn’t want.

FIX: Replace or repair broken tiles as soon as possible and next time someone’s up there, remind them: your roof is for standing, not stomping.

Valleys Overflowing – The Rain Gutters of Your Roof:

Where your roof slopes meet, you’ve got a valley, like a river for rainwater.

But when it buckets down and these valleys get chockers with leaves or gunk, water overflows and can leak inside.

Keep ’em clean, mate, or you’ll be mopping up inside.

FIX: Get your valleys inspected regularly, especially after leaf drop or a big storm. A professional roofer can help clear out the mess by hand or with a gentle brush. If the valley’s buggered or rusty, then it’s time for a patch-up or a new one to keep the water flowing right.

Bad Ridge Capping – A Roofer’s Headache

When a roofer comes to check out your place, one of the first things they’ll look at is the ridge capping – that’s the bit that seals the peak of your roof.

If it’s dodgy or cracked, you’re in for a wet surprise, especially when the skies open up.

FIX: The roofer might suggest replacing or repairing the capping right away. They’ll clean off any debris, check for cracks, and either patch it up with new sections or lay down fresh capping. A bit of sealant, and you’re back to a leak-free life.

Box Gutters – The Roofer’s Detective Work

When a roofer swings by to diagnose your soggy ceiling, slow-draining box gutters are often the prime suspect.

If they’re packed with leaves or other rubbish, they’re not going to channel water away like they should – instead, they’ll just hold a pool party for the rain.

FIX: The roofer will clear out the rubbish, ensuring the gutters are free of debris. They might suggest installing gutter guards to keep future clogs at bay.

Fasteners Rusting Out – The Sneaky Roof Saboteurs

Tin or steel roofs need fasteners to stay put, but if they’re not sealed tight during the making or nailing down, they can turn your roof into a sieve.

Time’s not kind either; rust and corrosion can munch through the metal around these fasteners, creating tiny escape routes for rain.

FIX: The roofer will inspect each fastener for signs of rust. They’ll clean off the corrosion, re-seal or replace any dodgy fasteners, and might even add a bit of anti-rust treatment to keep future leaks at bay.

Chimney – The Old-School Leak Makers

Chimneys might not be the stars of modern homes anymore, but when they’re around, they sure know how to cause trouble.

Heavy rain loves to sneak in through gaps, turning your roof cavity or chimney into a mini waterfall.

FIX: A skilled roofer will give your chimney the once-over, looking for any cracks or damage. They’ll fix or replace the sealant around the base, repair or rebuild the chimney crown if it’s shot, and might even suggest a new cap to keep the rain out and your home dry.

How to Stop a Roof Leak in the Rain

1. Pinpoint the Leak

• Check if it’s your roof letting in the rain, not something else like blocked gutters or critters. If you can, inspect tiles and ceiling for damage or misalignments.

2. Clear the Deck

• Prepare by clearing the area under the leak. Use buckets to catch drips, mop up water, and move or cover furniture.

3. Emergency Tarp

• If you can, throw a tarp over the part of the roof where the leak is. Use heavy objects like bricks or sandbags to keep it in place, especially in windy conditions.

4. Temporary Patch with Tar

• If you can access the roof safely, use roofing tar to seal small cracks or gaps. This is a quick fix, not a permanent solution.

5. Plastic Shield

• Cover the area where the leak is coming from with thick polyethylene plastic, ensuring it extends beyond the immediate leak zone. Secure with staples or nails.

6. Call the Pros:

• For immediate and effective resolution, call professional roofers. They’ll provide emergency roof repairs, especially crucial during heavy rain to prevent further damage.

Why Does My Roof Only Leak During Heavy Downpours?

So, you’ve noticed water trickling down from your ceiling but only during those massive Aussie storms?

Here’s the deal: it’s probably one of those issues we’ve talked about, but it’s the sheer amount of water coming down that’s the culprit.

Think of it like this – your roof might have a tiny gap or crack that usually doesn’t cause any trouble, but when it’s raining cats and dogs, that little gap becomes the perfect highway for water. Or maybe your gutters and downpipes are fine with a light shower, but they throw in the towel when it’s a deluge.

That overflow can backtrack, looking for any weak spot to sneak inside. Remember, even a small flaw can turn into a big headache when the rain’s coming down like there’s no tomorrow.

What to Do When Your Ceiling Starts Leaking During Rain?

First, grab some buckets or even a big trash can and position them right under where the water’s dripping from your ceiling.

This will help catch the water and prevent further damage. If you can safely get into your attic, hunt down where the water’s coming from up there.

Once you’ve found it, place more buckets or containers to catch the leak before it reaches your ceiling below.

If you notice water’s pooling in the attic, carefully drill a small hole to drain it away – just make sure you’re not going to cause more damage by doing this.

Remember, quick action can save you a lot of grief and keep your home from turning into an indoor pool.

Last Words

When heavy rain leads to sudden roof leaks, it’s crucial to act promptly to protect your home and belongings. Addressing such leaks immediately can prevent potential injuries and further damage.

At HolyMess Repairs, our professional emergency roofers prioritize punctuality and clear communication. We’ll assess the issue, explain the necessary repairs, and execute high-quality fixes to ensure your roof withstands future heavy rains.