Common culprits
- Skylights — flashing around the curb fails, or the curb is too short for the roof system.
- Clerestory windows — the wall below the windows meets the lower roof.
- Solar mounts — attachments not flashed into the roofing.
- Vents and pipes — dried-out boots and sealant.
- Equipment curbs — HVAC, evaporative coolers and stands.
How they should be done
- Curbs tall enough to keep water below the flashing
- Roofing carried up and over curbs, not just caulked to them
- Pipe boots and collars sized correctly
- Solar attachments flashed with proper mounts
Caulk isn't a fix
Sealant alone dries and cracks in the sun. Lasting fixes rebuild the flashing. See leak repair.
Questions homeowners ask
Should I replace my old skylight when I re-roof?
If it's near the end of its life, re-roofing is the ideal time.
Who fixes leaks at solar mounts?
We repair the roof side and coordinate with your solar installer.
Can an evaporative cooler cause leaks?
Yes — the stand, pan and lines can all leak.