When rain starts to drip around your skylight or chimney, panic can set in fast. These leaks often catch homeowners off guard, but the truth is—they’re some of the most common roof problems. The good news? You can handle many small issues yourself before they turn into major headaches.
Let’s walk through how to spot, fix, and prevent leaks around your skylights and chimneys.
Why Skylights and Chimneys Leak
Skylights and chimneys are natural weak spots in your roofing system. Over time, flashing—the thin metal layer that seals the joint between your roof and these features—can corrode, loosen, or crack. Once that happens, water finds its way inside.
According to HomeAdvisor’s roofing experts, flashing issues are one of the top causes of roof leaks nationwide. Similarly, Angi’s skylight repair guide explains that leaks often occur when the rubber seal around a skylight becomes brittle or when debris clogs the drainage channels.
“Most people assume the skylight itself is leaking,” says a Texas roofer quoted on Yelp. “In reality, the flashing or sealant around it is to blame.”
Other common culprits include:
- Cracked or missing shingles around the area
- Condensation buildup inside the skylight well
- Deteriorated mortar joints on the chimney
- Improper installation or aging roofing materials
How to Inspect for Damage
Start your inspection safely. Wait until the roof is dry, wear non-slip shoes, and have someone nearby. Use a flashlight in your attic to check for damp spots or water stains first. Then, carefully inspect your roof around the skylight and chimney for:
- Rusted or lifted flashing
- Gaps in sealant or caulking
- Loose shingles or nail heads
- Dark patches where water has pooled
The Wikipedia guide to roof flashing explains that even a small crack can let water seep in during heavy rain. If you notice any soft or discolored wood near these spots, it’s a sign moisture has already entered.
DIY Temporary Fixes
If you find a minor leak, you can often stop the water temporarily until a professional arrives.
Here are some quick fixes:
- Seal gaps using roofing sealant or caulking rated for outdoor use.
- Apply waterproof tape to cracked flashing areas.
- Use a tarp if rain is coming—secure it over the problem spot with 2x4s to prevent further damage.
On Reddit home repair threads, homeowners often mention using high-quality roofing cement as an emergency fix. One DIYer put it this way: “A small tube of sealant saved me a few hundred bucks in water damage—but I still called a roofer the next day.”
Temporary fixes can help, but they’re not long-term solutions. Once weather allows, it’s best to have the area properly repaired or replaced.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve patched the area and it’s still leaking—or if the damage looks widespread—it’s time to call a professional roofer. Persistent leaks, mold growth, or sagging areas indicate deeper structural issues.
According to HomeAdvisor cost data, skylight leak repairs typically range from $300 to $800, while chimney flashing repairs can cost between $400 and $1,200 depending on severity.
Professionals can inspect hidden damage, replace worn flashing, and ensure the seal between roof materials and fixtures is watertight. They’ll also check for underlying issues like poor ventilation or water pooling that could cause future leaks.
Final Thoughts
Leaks around skylights and chimneys are frustrating—but they don’t have to be disasters. With regular inspections, a bit of DIY know-how, and timely professional help, you can protect your home from costly water damage.
“Catching small leaks early is the difference between a $20 sealant job and a $2,000 roof repair,” says one roofing contractor on Angi. Stay alert, act fast, and your roof will thank you.
