You just noticed water stains on your ceiling. Maybe it’s a brown ring near a light fixture. Maybe it’s a steady drip during heavy rain. Or maybe you stepped into your attic and spotted sunlight peeking through where it shouldn’t. Either way, the thought hits you: “I think my roof is leaking.”
That worry is valid. Roof leaks never happen at a good time. They can cause mold, destroy drywall, and lead to serious damage if left alone. You’re likely searching for clear answers: How bad is it? Can I fix it myself? How much will it cost? Who do I call?
At Ground Up Construction Management, we’ve helped hundreds of San Diego homeowners repair roof damage quickly, from emergency roof repairs to full roof replacements. This guide is built for you.
You’ll learn:
- How to find a roof leak
- What causes roof leaks
- How to repair different types of roof damage
- When to call a professional
- What roof repair might cost in San Diego
- Whether a leak can lead to mold
- How to schedule a free roof inspection
Let’s walk through it , step by step.
How to Find a Roof Leak
The first sign of a leak often starts inside your home, not outside.
Look for:
- Ceiling stains or peeling paint
- Musty smells in attic or upper rooms
- Wet insulation
- Visible water dripping during rain
- Light coming through your attic ceiling
Once you spot the signs, check your attic (safely) for damp areas. Leaks often start near:
- Chimneys
- Skylights
- Vents or exhaust fans
- Roof valleys
- Flashing edges
If you can’t safely access your attic or you’re not sure where it’s coming from, a roof inspection company like ours can help. We offer free estimates on roof damage and pinpoint leak locations using moisture readers and drone photography when needed.
Dealing with a roof leak? Contact us today to schedule your free roof inspection and get expert help before the damage spreads.
What Causes Roof Leaks?
Your roof takes a beating in San Diego’s mixed climate. Salt air, high UV exposure, and seasonal rains all wear down materials. Over time, even a well installed roof can fail.
Here are the most common causes:
- Broken or missing shingles
- Cracked flashing (the metal that seals around vents/chimneys)
- Worn out underlayment
- Clogged or damaged gutters
- Old skylights with brittle seals
- Poor roof ventilation
In neighborhoods near coastal areas like Ocean Beach or hilly zones like La Mesa, wind driven rain and sun damage are particularly rough on shingles and tile roofs.
How Do You Repair a Leaking Roof?
1. Small Shingle Repairs
If just one or two shingles are missing or cracked, they can be replaced individually. This involves removing the damaged shingle, sliding a new one in, and nailing it down with roofing cement.
2. Flashing Replacement
Leaks around vents or chimneys often mean flashing has failed. The old flashing is removed and replaced with new metal, sealed properly.
3. Resealing Around Roof Features
4. Patch Repairs for Flat Roofs
Flat or low slope roofs may require patching using roofing membrane and sealant, especially around HVAC units or roof drains.
5. Full Section Replacements
If a large section is compromised, it may need to be removed and rebuilt. This includes tearing off the shingles, underlayment, and repairing any damaged plywood.
Will a Leak in the Roof Cause Mold?
Yes, and it doesn’t take long.
Mold can grow within 24–48 hours if a leak lets water sit inside your walls, attic, or insulation. Even if the leak looks minor from the outside, the damage beneath could be worse.
That’s why our roof inspection services include checking for:
- Moisture under shingles
- Soft decking
- Mold growth on sheathing
- Warped rafters or beams
If we suspect mold, we’ll let you know right away and can coordinate with licensed mold remediation partners before repairs begin.
Roof Repair Cost in San Diego
Most roof repairs in San Diego range from $2,500 + depending on the scope of damage, roof type, access, and repair materials.
For example, repairing a few missing shingles in Mission Hills might cost under $1,000. But replacing damaged flashing and underlayment in an older home like Point Loma might run closer to $2,500+.
Here’s what impacts pricing:
- Height and pitch of the roof
- Location of the leak
- Age and type of roof (tile, shingle, flat, etc.)
- Damage to underlying decking
- Permit needs (especially in historic areas)
Learn more about permitting requirements with San Diego’s Development Services if you’re planning roof repairs or replacement.
Schedule a Free Roof Inspection
Don’t guess when it comes to water damage.
At Ground Up Construction Management, we’ve also done roof inspections and roof repair for homes and businesses around other local landmarks in the area like the Viejas Outlet Center , Vieja Casino & Resort and Balboa Park.
Our process:
- Free site visit and detailed report
- Photo documentation of damage
- Quote for repair or replacement
- Help with roof insurance claim paperwork if needed
Start by requesting an inspection here:
Get a free roof inspection now ›
When Should You Call a Professional?
DIY is fine for small jobs, like clearing leaves from gutters or replacing a single shingle. But you should call a licensed roofing contractor when:
- You can’t locate the leak
- The roof is high or steep
- The leak returns after temporary patches
- Water damage spreads to walls or ceilings
- You notice signs of mold or wood rot
- You want a proper inspection before buying or selling a home
We’re more than just a roof repair company. Ground Up Construction is a full service team that handles inspections, repairs, replacements, and permitting all in one place.
About Ground Up Construction Management
We’ve served San Diego County for over a decade with licensed general contracting and specialty roofing services. Whether we’re inspecting a single-family home in Bay Park, patching a storm damaged roof in El Cajon, or replacing tile roofs in Rancho Santa Fe, our team delivers high quality work with clear communication.
More than a roofing company, we offer full roofing services, including:
- Roof inspection services
- Roof replacement
- Emergency repairs
- Preventive maintenance
- Leak detection and repairs
FAQs About Roof Repair
How long does a roof repair take?
Do you offer emergency roof repair?
Yes. We prioritize emergencies and storm damage, especially during the rainy season.
How do I know if I need a new roof?
If your roof is over 20 years old, has repeated leaks, or widespread damage, replacement may be more cost effective.
What is the average roof inspection cost?
We offer free roof inspections throughout San Diego, so you don’t have to worry about upfront costs.
Is your work covered by a warranty?
Yes, we offer workmanship warranties for all repairs and replacements, and we use manufacturer backed materials.
Let’s Fix That Leak Today
A leaking roof doesn’t wait and neither should you.
Contact Ground Up Construction Management for expert roof repair in San Diego. Whether it’s a small patch or a full rebuild, we’ll walk you through every step.
Request your free roof inspection
Hours: Mon–Sat, 8AM–6PM
Proudly serving: San Diego, La Mesa, Alpine, El Cajon, Oceanside, and surrounding areas.
