Leaking Roofs and Walls

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Introduction: Same Leak, New Storm — Why?

Have you ever repaired a section of your roof or siding—maybe even more than once—and the leak returns every time it rains? You’re not alone. Many property owners across the Denver metro area face this frustrating situation.

At Ernie’s Gutter, we’ve helped countless homeowners and property managers fix stubborn leaks that kept reappearing despite previous repairs. The truth is, unless the root cause of the leak is found and properly repaired, you’re likely to face repeat problems. Let’s look at what really works when it comes to fixing roof and wall leaks permanently.

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Why Do Roof and Wall Leaks Keep Coming Back?

To stop leaks for good, it helps to understand the concept of flashing—the key principle that keeps water out of your home. Flashing is the practice of overlapping building components so that water flows down and off the building rather than into it.

Think of how a duck’s feathers are arranged. Each feather overlaps the one below it, keeping water from soaking in. The same concept applies to your home: shingles, siding, windows, vents, and trim should all overlap the components below. When they don’t, water finds its way in—and that’s when the leaks begin.

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Case Study: A Repeat Leak Problem Solved in Denver

A Denver townhome complex contacted us with a recurring leak problem. Despite investing in roof tile replacements and extensive caulking around siding and windows, the leaks kept coming back. They needed a real solution.

We applied our proven three-step approach to diagnose and permanently resolve the issue.

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Step 1: Precision Water Testing

We began by performing staged water testing—a focused method to isolate where water is entering the building envelope. Unlike general flooding, we test specific sections one at a time, starting from the lowest point and moving upward.

In this case, we tested the lower tile roofing for 30 minutes—no leak. We moved to the wall below the window—no leak. Then the window itself—still dry. It wasn’t until we reached the wall-to-roof transition that the leak finally reappeared. That confirmed the source.

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Step 2: Invasive Repair and Reconstruction

Once we found the entry point, we carefully dismantled the area to examine the damage. The evidence was clear:

• Misaligned flashing

• Inadequate overlap of materials

• Heavy dirt buildup in the insulation

• Visible staining, rot, and rust

We rebuilt the wall and transition area using #30 felt underlayment and a waterproof membrane called Mel-Rol. Then, we reinstalled siding and roofing in a correct weatherboard fashion with proper overlap.

The result? During the next storm, not a single drop came through.

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Step 3: Preventive Maintenance that Works

Once the leak was resolved, we shared our findings with the property manager and used that same repair protocol on other problem areas. With consistency in materials and technique, all future leak-prone units were updated.

Since then, no callbacks—just dry interiors and peace of mind.

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How Ernie’s Gutter Handles Roof and Wall Leaks in Denver

At Ernie’s Gutter, we’ve been helping homeowners and property managers resolve roofing and siding issues the right way for over four decades. We specialize in:

• Roof repairs and replacements

• Gutter installation and seamless gutter systems

• Siding repairs and leak detection

• Flashing upgrades and drainage correction

• Emergency roof repair after storms or hail damage

We’ve built our reputation on clear communication, quality materials, and long-lasting results.

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Contact Ernie’s Gutter

If you’re tired of chasing the same leak, let us identify and fix the problem for good.

Ernie’s Gutter
1195 W Custer Pl, Denver, CO 80223
Phone: 720-346-ROOF
Website: https://erniesgutter.com

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why do my roof leaks keep returning even after repair?

• Flashing may have been installed incorrectly

• Materials may not overlap properly

• Caulking may have been used instead of structural repairs

• Hidden wall or window transitions might be the real issue

2. What is flashing, and why is it so important?

• Flashing is the overlapping of building materials to shed water

• It prevents water from seeping into seams, joints, and transitions

• It’s essential in roofing, siding, windows, and gutters

3. How does water testing help find a leak?

• Testing isolates specific areas step by step

• It eliminates guesswork and reduces unnecessary demolition

• Accurate leak location means effective, permanent repair

4. What are signs that I may have a hidden leak?

• Water stains on ceilings or walls

• Mold or musty odors

• Soft, rotting wood near windows or eaves

• Paint bubbling or cracking

5. Can flashing be installed after construction?

• Yes, flashing can be retrofitted into existing structures

• We often remove siding or trim to install new flashing where needed

6. Does caulking stop leaks?

• Caulking may provide a temporary fix

• Long-term leak prevention requires structural overlap and proper flashing

7. Is wall damage always caused by roof leaks?

• Not always, but roof-to-wall transitions are common leak zones

• Water can run behind siding from poorly sealed roof edges

8. Do you offer emergency leak repairs?

• Yes, we provide emergency roof repair throughout Denver and nearby cities

• We respond quickly to active leaks and storm damage

9. How much does leak repair cost?

• Cost depends on extent of damage, location, and materials needed

• We offer free estimates and transparent pricing

10. How long does a proper leak repair last?

• When installed correctly with proper materials: 10–30 years

• We use high-quality products and proven methods for lasting results

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Ernie’s Gutter – Serving Denver, CO Since 1978
Call 720-346-ROOF or visit https://erniesgutter.com for expert roofing, gutter, and siding solutions that stand the test of time.