An older home has a lot going for it, but its roof has been through more seasons. Materials wear out, earlier repairs pile up, and small gaps that would have been sealed in a newer house may be open. That does not mean the roof has to be replaced. It does mean that finding the cause of a leak takes more care.
Why older roofs leak
- Worn shingles. Years of sun and temperature swings can leave shingles brittle, curled, or bare. Learn more about asphalt shingle roof repair options.
- Old flashing. Metal can rust, and old sealant has usually cracked.
- Layered repairs. Patches over patches can hide the real cause, and extra layers of roofing add weight.
- Missing details. Older roofs may lack things that are standard today, such as drip edge, ice and water barrier, or proper ventilation.
- Deck problems. The wood under the shingles may have been wet for years, and soft or rotted deck boards will not hold nails well.
- Chimney and masonry wear. Mortar and flashing around old chimneys often need attention.
Why a stain may mean more than it seems
In an older house, a small stain can mean water has been getting in for a long time. The visible spot may be the first place it came through, and the wood, insulation, and plaster or drywall around it may be damp. It is worth having the attic and the framing checked, not only the roof surface.
What to check
From the ground, look at the shingles for curling, bare patches, and cracks, and check the flashing around the chimney, vents, and walls. In the attic, look for stains on the decking and rafters, daylight, damp or compressed insulation, and signs of past leaks. Look at the ceilings on the top floor, and at the walls near the roof edge. For a thorough check, schedule a roof inspection.
Repair, or replace?
A single clear problem, such as one failed flashing, may be fixed without replacing the whole roof. If the shingles are worn across the roof, or the deck is damaged, patching may only buy a little time. If you are deciding whether to repair or replace, a roofer can tell you which describes your house. Ask for photos of what they find, and for an explanation of what they would do first.
Plaster, old wiring, and old materials
Older houses may have plaster ceilings, older insulation, and older wiring. Wet plaster can be heavy and may come down. Water near old wiring is a hazard, so shut off power to a room where water is coming through the ceiling if you can do so safely. If you suspect old insulation or materials that could contain asbestos, do not disturb them. Have them tested before any work that would disturb them.
Respect the house
Older houses often need repairs that match the original details, such as the same roof shape, trim, or materials. Tell the roofer if the house has historic features, and ask whether they have experience with older homes.
Get an older roof checked
Call Roof Leak Repair Carol Stream IL at (630) 866-1445. Tell us how old the house and the roof are, if you know, and where the stain is.
Carol Stream Leak & Restoration is a free referral service. We connect Carol Stream homeowners with independent local roofing contractors — no fees to you, ever. Call (630) 866-1445 for fast help with a roof leak.