Five main causes of roof leaks on shingle roofs in New Jersey
1. Chimney Flashing Leaks
One of the most common causes of roof leaks is a problem with the chimney flashing. Flashing is the thin layer of aluminum or metal installed around the base of the chimney to keep water out. Over time, it can fail due to cracked tar, expired caulking, damaged aluminum, or worn-out step flashing. When this happens, rainwater seeps in and causes leaks inside your home.
At Everest, we specialize in chimney flashing leak repairs for homeowners in Totowa, Passaic County, Bergen County, and surrounding North Jersey towns.
Our Chimney Leak Repair Process
When you call us for a chimney flashing repair, here’s what we do:
- Remove Old Materials
- Take off shingles around the chimney area.
- Remove old aluminum flashing and check for damage.
- Inspect Step Flashings
- Carefully inspect each piece of step flashing.
- Replace any damaged or rusted sections.
- Install New Flashing & Shingles
- Install new aluminum chimney flashing, color-matched to your shingles.
- Reinstall new shingles around the chimney for a seamless finish.
- Seal & Cap Properly
- Use a grinder to create a groove in the chimney bricks, allowing the flashing to be tucked inside.
- Apply high-quality silicone sealant at the cap to create a watertight barrier.
Why Chimney Flashing Leaks Happen
- Expired or cracked silicone sealant
- Rusted or bent aluminum flashing
- Worn-out step flashings
- Old tar patches that no longer hold
If you notice water stains near your fireplace, damp walls, or leaks after heavy rain, chances are the problem is with your chimney flashing.
Warranty on Chimney Leak Repairs
We stand behind our work with warranties of up to 10 years on chimney flashing repairs, giving you peace of mind that your home will stay dry.
Chimney Flashing Repair Experts in Bergen & Passaic County
If you’re searching for chimney leak repair, chimney flashing replacement, or roof leak repair near chimney in Bergen County, Passaic County, or New Jersey in general, our team has the experience and tools to get the job done right the first time.
📞 Call Everest today at (201) 707-9560 to schedule your free chimney flashing inspection.
2. Worn-Out Pipe Boots & Roof Leaks
Pipe boots are the protective rubber or neoprene seals that surround the plumbing vent pipes on your roof. They usually last about 10–15 years, but their lifespan can vary depending on your home’s location, sun exposure, and weather conditions.
When a pipe boot wears out, it often cracks or pulls away from the vent pipe. This allows water to seep in, and leaks usually show up on the ceilings of bathrooms or kitchens—the areas directly below vent pipes.
Our Pipe Boot Repair Process
When we repair or replace a worn-out pipe boot, our team:
- Removes the shingles around the old pipe boot.
- Carefully takes off the damaged boot.
- Installs a new pipe boot with proper waterproofing.
- Installs a new pipe boot with proper waterproofing.
- Replaces shingles around the area, matching the existing roof color as closely as possible.
This ensures a clean finish and a watertight seal that protects your home.
Cost of Pipe Boot Replacement
Prices for pipe boot replacement typically start at $249 per boot, depending on the roof’s height and slope. Every project is completed with careful attention to detail so you won’t have to worry about leaks returning.
Pipe Boot Replacement in Passaic & Bergen County
If you notice water stains near your bathroom ceiling or suspect a roof leak around a vent pipe, it may be time to replace your pipe boots.
📞 Contact Everest today at (201) 707-9560 for a free estimate on pipe boot repair and roof leak repair in Totowa, Passaic County, Bergen County, and surrounding North Jersey towns.
3. Exposed Nails & Roof Leaks
Sometimes, when a roof isn’t installed properly, contractors leave behind exposed nails. Over time, these nails can rust and loosen, allowing water to penetrate your roof and cause leaks inside your home. Even a small exposed nail can lead to serious water damage if left unaddressed.
How We Repair Exposed Nails
When we repair a roof with exposed nails, we:
- Remove the affected section of shingles (usually about 5 feet by 5 feet).
- Replace the damaged shingles with new ones that match the color and style of your existing roof.
- Ensure all nails are properly covered and sealed to prevent future leaks.
This process restores your roof’s waterproof protection and extends its lifespan.
Exposed Nail Repairs in North Jersey
If you suspect your roof has exposed nails or leaks caused by poor installation, don’t wait until the damage spreads. Our team provides professional roof leak repairs in Passaic County, Bergen County, and surrounding North Jersey towns.
📞 Call Everest today at (201) 707-9560 for a free roof inspection and repair estimate.
4.Roof Valleys & Leak Repairs
Roof valleys are the areas where two roof slopes meet, creating a channel that directs rain and melting snow down to the gutters. Because valleys naturally collect more water, snow, ice, and even falling leaves, they are one of the most vulnerable parts of your roof.
Without proper protection, valleys can trap moisture, snow, and debris, which often leads to leaks over time. That’s why every roof valley should be covered with an ice and water shield during installation to provide an extra layer of waterproofing.
Why Roof Valleys Leak
- Heavy buildup of snow and ice in winter
- Leaves and debris clogging the valley and holding moisture
- Worn or improperly installed shingles
- Missing or damaged underlayment
How We Repair Roof Valleys
When a roof valley starts leaking, our repair process includes:
- Removing the shingles along the valley from start to finish.
- Installing a fresh layer of ice and water shield for maximum protection.
- Reinstalling new shingles, carefully matched to your existing roof.
- Ensuring the valley is sealed and able to channel water properly again.
Preventing Future Roof Valley Leaks
To reduce the risk of leaks, we recommend keeping your roof valleys clear of leaves, branches, and other debris—especially during fall. Regular maintenance helps water flow freely and prevents moisture from sitting on your roof.
Roof Valley Repair in North Jersey
If you notice roof leaks, water stains, or pooling water near a valley, call the experts at Everest. We provide professional roof valley leak repairs in Passaic County, Bergen County, and nearby North Jersey towns, backed by strong warranties.
📞 Contact Everest today at (201) 707-9560 for a free inspection and estimate.
5.Window & Door Leak Repairs
When windows or doors are installed above a roofline, they require proper aluminum flashing and high-quality silicone sealant around the edges to keep water out. Unfortunately, if low-grade materials are used—or if the installation isn’t done correctly—you may start to see water leaks within a few years.
Why Windows & Doors Leak
- Poor-quality silicone or caulking that breaks down over time
- Damaged or improperly installed aluminum flashing
- Gaps around the window or door frame
- Heavy rain overwhelming weak seals
Leaks around windows and doors are often tricky to diagnose. If you notice leaks only during heavy rains, it’s often caused by the window or door flashing. However, if the leaks happen even during light rain, the problem is more likely with your roof—not the windows or doors.
Our Repair Process
When repairing a leaking window or door, our team will:
- Remove the aluminum flashing around the window or door.
- Inspect and, if necessary, remove the window or door itself.
- Reinstall the flashing and frame correctly with premium-grade silicone sealant for long-lasting protection.
- Test the area to ensure the leak is fully resolved.
Window & Door Leak Repairs in North Jersey
If you’re experiencing water leaks around windows or doors above your roof, our experts at Everest can help. We provide professional window and door flashing repair services in Passaic County, Bergen County, and surrounding North Jersey towns.
📞 Call Everest today at (201) 707-9560 to schedule a free inspection and estimate.