The Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks We Have Found in SAHomes

Scoots Roofing > Blogs > Roofing > The Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks We Have Found in SAHomes

From the suburbs of Adelaide to the hills — here’s what’s really going on up there.
You know that sinking feeling when you spot a water stain creeping across your ceiling? Yep,
it usually means your roof’s got a leak. And as someone who’s spent years climbing across
roofs all over Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills, we can tell you that it’s usually not just bad
luck.

Roof leaks often build up quietly and then hit hard, especially when the rain finally comes
after a dry spell. So, if you’re wondering what’s most likely to cause issues in your home,
here’s what the team at Scoots Roofing Adelaide sees again and again.

1.Blocked Gutters

Let’s start with the simple stuff. Blocked gutters are one of the biggest causes of leaks we
see, especially after autumn leaves have had their way with your roofline. When gutters fill
up, water can’t drain properly. It backs up, overflows, and finds a way into places it
shouldn’t be like under your roof sheets or behind the fascia. If you can’t remember the last
time your gutters were cleaned, it’s probably time.

2.Cracked or Worn Flashing

Flashing is the thin metal material we install around chimneys, skylights, vents, and valleys
to keep water out of the joins. But over time, especially with Adelaide’s hot summers and
cold winters, it can crack, lift, or wear out. Once that happens, water gets straight in. We see
this all the time on older homes, especially in the hills where weather can be more extreme.
It’s a small fix that can save you a lot of water damage.

3.Broken or Slipped Tiles

Tile roofs look great and last a long time, but they are not invincible. A strong wind, a heavy
branch, or even someone walking up there the wrong way can crack or dislodge a tile. And it
only takes one loose tile to let water in. In fact, one of the most common leak calls we get
after a storm is, “It’s just one spot.” Nine times out of ten, it’s a slipped tile letting water
pour into the roof cavity.

4.Poor Roof Design or Old Roof Repairs

Not every roof was built with good water flow in mind. Low pitches, awkward joins, and DIY
jobs from 10 years ago can all cause issues, especially when there’s nowhere for water to
go. We have seen all sorts of creative “fixes” over the years that unfortunately just made
things worse. If your home has had ongoing leaks, especially in the same area, it might not
be a one-off issue. It could be time to rethink the layout or flashing design.

5.Age and Wear

Roofs cop a beating over the years with heat, rain, wind, dust, and more. Colorbond
eventually fades or rusts, tiles degrade, sealants crack, and fixings come loose. If your roof is
over 20 years old and hasn’t had a check-up in a while, leaks may just be around the corner.
The trick is catching the signs early before it becomes a ceiling or wall issue or worse, mould.

What Should You Do?

Spot a stain? Hear dripping? Even if it’s just a gut feeling, don’t ignore it. A small leak can
turn into major damage fast with timber frames and insulation involved.
At Scoots Roofing, we are all about straight talk and honest fixes. We don’t do scare tactics
or pressure jobs. We just look, explain, and fix properly.

Let’s Get You Covered

Whether you are in the Adelaide suburbs or tucked away in the Hills, we have got your roof
covered. We will spot the cause, fix it right and help you stop leaks before they start. Give us
a call. We are ready when you are.

What our Customers are saying?

Uprgraded from tiles to iron roof. Looks amazing.x The only tradies I have known that cleaned up after themselves, they left it cleaner than when they arrived! Friendly and efficient. Highly recommended.

- Jane Moloney

These guys did our roof 2 years ago! We were so happy with their advice, friendly manner, efficiency and workmanship! Even came in under budget. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

- Lisa Halling

Luke and team did an excellent and professional job on our new roof. We couldn’t be happier with the result. Thanks boys!

- Aggie Van Eyk
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