Roof Leaking - What Do I Do?

Roof Leaking – What Do I Do? | K Russell Roofing

A leaking roof is one of the most stressful problems a homeowner can face. The sight of water dripping through your ceiling, damp patches spreading across plaster, or hearing the sound of dripping water in your attic can instantly cause worry. The good news is that you are not alone — roof leaks are one of the most common roofing issues across Glasgow and the Central Belt of Scotland.

At K Russell Roofing, we specialise in roof repairs, replacements, and maintenance. We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand what steps to take if you notice your roof leaking.

Why Do Roofs Leak?

Roof leaks can happen for a number of reasons, and understanding the cause is the first step to fixing the problem. Some of the most common reasons include:

Damaged or missing slates/tiles – High winds, storms, and general wear and tear can cause slates to shift or fall off.
Clogged gutters – If gutters are full of leaves and debris, water can back up and seep under the roofline.
Worn flashing – Flashing is used around chimneys, skylights, and roof edges. If it cracks or corrodes, water will find a way in.
Poor workmanship – Low-quality installations or quick fixes from unqualified trades can often lead to leaks within a short time.
Age of the roof – Like anything, roofs have a lifespan. Older roofs are simply more prone to leaking.

Immediate Steps to Take When You Notice a Leak

When water starts coming in, time is of the essence. Here’s what you should do immediately:

Contain the water
Place a bucket or container under the leak to catch water and protect your flooring or furniture.
Relieve water pressure
If you notice a bulge in the ceiling plaster, it may be holding water. Carefully pierce a small hole to let the water out in a controlled way, preventing a larger collapse.
Protect belongings
Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from the affected area.
Switch off electrics
If the leak is near lighting or sockets, turn off the electricity in that part of the house for safety.
Call a professional roofer
Temporary fixes will only last so long. A qualified roofing contractor like K Russell Roofing should inspect and repair the problem quickly.

Common Signs of a Roof Leak

Sometimes leaks are obvious, but other times they can be hidden until serious damage occurs. Watch out for:

Water stains on ceilings or walls
Damp patches in lofts or attics
Peeling paint or bubbling plaster
Moss or algae growth on the roof
A musty smell indoors
Higher than normal energy bills (caused by damp insulation)

Catching these early can save you thousands in repairs.

Can I Fix a Roof Leak Myself?

It’s tempting to climb up and try to patch a leak yourself, but we strongly recommend against DIY roofing repairs. Here’s why:

Safety – Working at height on wet or slippery surfaces is extremely dangerous.
Temporary fixes – Store-bought sealants or tarps rarely solve the underlying issue.
Insurance issues – Poor DIY repairs can void your home insurance if more damage occurs.

The safest and most cost-effective approach is to call a qualified roofer who can diagnose and repair the leak properly.

At K Russell Roofing, we provide a full roof repair service across Glasgow and the Central Belt. Our process is straightforward and reliable:

Inspection & Diagnosis – We carry out a thorough survey to identify the source of the leak.
Quotation – You receive a clear, no-obligation quote for the work required.
Repair Work – From replacing missing slates to re-pointing flashing, we carry out high-quality repairs.
Prevention Advice – We recommend steps to keep your roof in top condition and prevent future leaks.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Leaking Roof?

Costs vary depending on the size of the problem, materials needed, and access to the roof. Minor repairs may cost just a few hundred pounds, while extensive issues or older roofs may require larger investments.

The key thing to remember is that fixing a leak early almost always saves money compared to leaving it to get worse.

Preventing Future Roof Leaks

Prevention is better than cure. Some proactive steps include:

Regular roof inspections (especially after storms)
Clearing gutters at least twice per year
Replacing damaged tiles immediately
Ensuring loft ventilation is working properly
Booking a professional maintenance check every 12–24 months

By staying ahead, you reduce the risk of major damage and prolong the life of your roof.

Why Choose K Russell Roofing?

There are many roofing companies out there, but here’s why homeowners across Scotland trust us:

Local & Experienced – We’ve worked on hundreds of properties in Glasgow and the surrounding areas.
All Types of Roofing – From slate and tile to flat roofs, we cover it all.
Emergency Repairs – Quick response when you need it most.
5-Star Reputation – Our clients recommend us for quality workmanship and reliability.
Fully Insured & Guaranteed – Every job is carried out safely and backed with guarantees.

Contact K Russell Roofing Today

If your roof is leaking and you’re wondering what to do, the answer is simple: act fast and call in the professionals.

K Russell Roofing is here to help homeowners and businesses across Glasgow, Stirling, Edinburgh, and beyond. Don’t let a small leak turn into a major problem.

📞 Call us today for a free quote: [Insert phone number]
📧 Or request a callback via our contact form.