Why Is My Roof Leaking?
If your roof is leaking, it’s likely due to damaged shingles, faulty flashing, clogged gutters, or aging materials—here’s how to spot the signs and what to do next.
Why Is My Roof Leaking? A Homeowner’s Guide to Causes, Warning Signs, and Smart Fixes
A leaking roof is more than just a nuisance—it’s a red flag that your home’s first line of defense is compromised. Whether you’re in Scappoose, Portland, or anywhere across Columbia County, understanding why your roof is leaking can help you act fast and avoid costly damage.
At MCE Roofing, we’ve seen it all. Here’s a breakdown of the most common causes of roof leaks in 2025, how to spot them early, and what you can do to protect your home.
🧱 1. Damaged or Missing Shingles
Shingles are your roof’s armor. But wind, hail, and UV rays can crack, curl, or strip them away—leaving vulnerable spots where water sneaks in.
What to look for: Lifted tabs, bare patches, granules in gutters, or color mismatches after storms.
MCE’s fix: We replace damaged shingles with impact-resistant options and inspect your roof after major weather events.
🔩 2. Faulty Flashing Around Chimneys, Skylights, and Vents
Flashing seals the joints where your roof meets vertical surfaces. If it’s cracked, corroded, or poorly installed, water can seep in fast.
What to look for: Rust streaks, water stains near chimneys or skylights, or loose metal flashing.
MCE’s fix: We reseal or replace flashing using high-quality materials and expert installation.
🍂 3. Clogged Gutters
When gutters are packed with leaves and debris, water backs up and flows under shingles or into fascia boards—mimicking a roof leak.
What to look for: Overflowing gutters, sagging runs, or rot at the roofline.
MCE’s fix: We clean and inspect your gutters, and recommend guards to prevent future clogs.
🏚️ 4. Aging Roofing Materials
Roofs over 20 years old often show signs of wear—cracks, soft spots, and curling shingles. These weak points invite water intrusion.
What to look for: Discoloration, brittle shingles, or frequent leaks after rain.
MCE’s fix: We assess your roof’s condition and offer honest guidance on repairs vs. replacement.
🛠️ 5. Poor Installation
Even new roofs can leak if installed improperly. Misaligned flashing, skipped underlayment, or bad nail placement can create hidden gaps.
What to look for: Leaks in newer roofs, uneven surfaces, or persistent issues despite repairs.
MCE’s fix: Our licensed team performs thorough inspections and corrects installation errors with precision.
Conclusion
Remember, your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, and taking proactive measures to maintain it will provide peace of mind for years to come.
Our in-house installers are factory trained and certified. Most have been with us for 10 years or more. MCE has been a GAF Certified Contractor since 2011 and has held the President’s Club Status since 2014. Master Elite Certification is GAF’s assurance that your roof will be completed professionally and with quality. Above all, get a professional roofing contractor’s opinion. This will give you peace of mind knowing the roof is in good condition.
Here at MCE, we offer free evaluations of your roofing and gutter systems. Give MCE a call at (503) 397-2215 or Fill Out Our Free Roofing Consultation Form to schedule a contact-free roof evaluation. We are family owned and operated serving Columbia County, the Portland Metro and surrounding areas with over 25 years of experience.