The ceiling is wet. The panic sets in. You immediately assume the roof has failed and call a roofer. But DISCOUNTED ROOFING LLC is here to challenge that assumption. In our experience, a surprising percentage of "roof leaks" aren't roof leaks at all. Before you pay for an emergency service call, we want you to perform a quick triage to determine if you actually need a roofer or if you need a plumber or HVAC technician.

The "Phantom" Leak: HVAC Condensation If the leak is happening in the summer, on a hot humid day, and it hasn't rained in a week, it is not your roof. It is almost certainly your air conditioning unit in the attic. A clogged condensate line or a rusted drain pan will drip water through the ceiling just like a rain leak. Check your thermostat. Check the weather. If it’s dry outside but wet inside, call an HVAC pro, not us.

The "Plumbing" Leak: The Bathroom Above If the water stain is directly below an upstairs bathroom, be suspicious. Does the leak happen only after someone takes a shower? Is the water dirty or soapy? Roof leaks are usually brown or yellow (tea-colored) from tannins in the wood. Grey water or soapy water often indicates a plumbing drain issue. Test this by running the shower and seeing if the drip rate increases.

The "Attic Rain": Winter Condensation In the dead of winter, if you see dripping near the eaves but there is no snow melting on the roof, you might have an insulation problem. Warm, moist air from your house escapes into the cold attic, freezes on the underside of the roof deck nails, and then melts when the sun hits the roof. This is called "attic rain." It requires better ventilation and air sealing, not a roof patch.

However, if it is raining, or if there is snow melting on the roof, and the water is coming in around a chimney, vent pipe, or skylight—that is our territory. Knowing the source saves you time and ensures you get the right trade on-site immediately. When you do need Residential Roofing Repair Services in Philadelphia, we are ready, but we prefer you call us for the right reasons.