A Leaky roof is one of those problems that can go from a minor inconvenience to a major headache if left unchecked.
Whether a slow drip after a storm or a sudden gush from an ice dam, water intrusion puts your home at risk for structural damage, mold growth, and costly repairs.
In Ottawa, where we face heavy snow and strong summer storms, it’s critical to stay ahead of roof leaks. At Godfrey Roofing, we’ve helped homeowners throughout Ottawa identify and resolve roof leaks quickly and efficiently.
If you’re dealing with a leaky roof, it’s important to understand the root cause and the right solution. Let’s explore some of the most common sources of leaks and how we approach fixing them.
Leaky Roof Flashing Failures
Flashing refers to the metal strips installed at joints and intersections on a roof, around chimneys, skylights, vents, and valleys.
It’s designed to direct water away from vulnerable areas, but over time, flashing can loosen, rust, or crack, especially in Ottawa’s freeze-thaw climate.
We inspect flashing closely during our leak assessments. If it’s loose or deteriorated, we replace it with new, properly sealed flashing and ensure it’s installed under the shingles for maximum water protection.
Damaged or Missing Shingles
High winds, hail, or aging can cause shingles to curl, crack, or blow off entirely. When shingles are compromised, water can easily seep into the roof deck below. Unfortunately, even a small missing shingle can lead to a big Leaky Roof problem.
When we spot damaged shingles, we replace them with matching materials and assess whether the surrounding area has sustained water damage.
If there’s evidence of widespread wear, depending on the condition and age of the roof, we may recommend a more extensive repair or a complete roof replacement.
Improper Roof Vent Installation
Roof vents are essential for proper attic ventilation, but if they’re not sealed properly, they can become easy entry points for rainwater. This is especially common in homes where vents were added after the original roof installation or if low-grade materials were used.
We ensure vents are sealed using high-quality waterproof barriers and flashing. In some cases, replacing the entire vent with a better-fitting model is the best solution to prevent a Leaky Roof.
Ice Dams in Winter
Ice dams are a common problem in Ottawa’s cold winters. 
They form when heat from the attic melts snow on the roof, refreezing at the edges and creating a dam that traps water. That trapped water can eventually work under shingles and into the home.
To address ice dams, we first identify whether the cause is inadequate insulation or poor attic ventilation. Then, we improve airflow and insulation to maintain a consistent roof temperature. We also install ice and water shield membranes in critical areas to prevent future leaks.
Clogged Gutters and Poor Drainage
Gutters are essential in directing water away from your home. If they’re clogged with leaves, debris, or ice, water can back up and seep into your roofing system or siding causing a Leaky Roof. Improperly sloped gutters can also cause overflow.
We inspect your gutter system as part of any leak evaluation and offer recommendations for repair or cleaning. We also check that downspouts are discharging far enough from your foundation to prevent water pooling near your home.
Skylight Leaks
Skylights can be a beautiful addition to a home, but they’re notorious for leaking if not installed or maintained properly. Aging seals, cracked glass, or gaps in the flashing can all allow water to get through.
We inspect skylights for seal failure, reseal where necessary, and replace flashing. If a skylight is failing, we may suggest replacing it with a more modern, energy-efficient unit.
Structural Issues or Rot
In some cases, water damage has already occurred beneath the surface. A long-standing leak might have compromised the roof deck or trusses, leading to sagging, mold, or rot.
These situations require more involved repair work but are worth addressing to prevent further structural damage.
We carefully remove affected materials, replace rotted wood, and reinforce the area before reapplying shingles and underlayment. Our priority is to restore full integrity to your roofing system to withstand whatever Ottawa weather throws at it.
Proactive Maintenance is Key
The best solution for leaky roofs is prevention. We recommend having your roof inspected at least once a year—ideally in the spring or fall—to catch minor issues before they become major Leaky Roof repairs. Our roofing inspections are thorough, honest, and aimed at giving you peace of mind.
If you suspect a leak, don’t wait. Even if the signs seem small, like a water stain on the ceiling or a damp attic, they can be the first warning signs of a much larger problem.
Let’s Keep Your Ottawa Home Dry and Protected
At Godfrey Roofing, we take roof leaks seriously. We bring experience, transparency, and craftsmanship to every project, and we’re proud to serve Ottawa homeowners with top-tier solutions tailored to our unique climate.
If you have a leaky roof or want to ensure yours is in good shape, contact us for a no-pressure consultation. We’ll provide a clear diagnosis and recommend the right fix, whether a quick repair or a complete replacement. Let’s keep your roof—and your home—strong, dry, and ready for whatever weather comes next.
