Why Is My Roof Window Leaking?

Have you spotted signs of leaking around your pitched roof window? Water dripping, strange damp patches, or that musty smell creeping in? A leaking roof window is more than just an annoyance. It can cause bigger problems like mould growth, stained ceilings, and damage to internal structures. In pitched roofs, leaking roof windows are a common issue our team at WA Roofing gets called out for, often because of wear and tear, improper installation or flashing failures.

If you’ve got a Velux window or any other type of rooflight, we can help. Our crew specialises in repairing leaking pitched roof windows across Staffordshire, and we do it affordably without compromising quality. Let us walk you through what’s going on and how we can fix it.

Signs Your Pitched Roof Window Might Be Leaking

Early signs of a leaking window often go unnoticed. Most people don’t realise there’s a problem until the water quite literally drips onto them.

So it’s good to keep an eye out for these signs:

• Discoloured or stained ceiling around the window
• Peeling paint or flaky plaster
• Mould or mildew near window edges
• Persistent damp smell in the loft or upper rooms
• Drips or puddles on your windowsill
• Drafts or cold air sneaking in

Whether it’s a Velux or another type of pitched roof window, these indicators usually mean water is working its way through weak spots. Once it does, things can spiral quickly, especially when there’s regular rainfall.

What Causes Roof Windows to Leak?

Leaking roof windows can happen for several reasons. It doesn’t always mean your whole window needs replacing. Here are the most common causes:

1. Damaged or Missing Flashing

Flashing is the protective sealing placed around the outside of your window, where it meets the roof. If this becomes damaged, loose, or wasn’t installed correctly, rainwater will find its way through.

2. Failed Seals Around the Window Frame

As the frame ages, the seals around your window can perish. Over time, the rubber becomes inflexible or cracks, letting water in.

3. Cracked Glass or Broken Hinges

A cracked glass pane or broken mechanism can let water through, especially in windy rain.

4. Blocked Gutters or Roof Valleys

Sometimes, it’s not the window but the roof around it. If there’s a build-up of leaves, moss, or other debris, water won’t flow away properly. Instead, it pools around the window and eventually gets inside.

If you’re dealing with any of these problems in Staffordshire or the nearby areas, we’re on hand to help.

Velux Window Repairs in Pitched Roofs

At WA Roofing, we work on all makes of pitched roof windows, including Velux. These types of windows are popular because they bring so much natural light into roof spaces, but even the best brands can encounter problems over time.

When water starts to leak in through a Velux window, the issues are often with flashing kits, rubber seals, or hinges sticking open, allowing water to get through. We know these products inside out, so we can usually get things sorted quickly.

We don’t just patch the surface either. Our service homes in on the root cause and gets it watertight for the long run. Whether that’s replacing the flashing with a better-fitted kit, resealing around the edges, or fixing a warped section of frame, we’ll get it sorted.

To see examples of our work on Velux windows, have a look at our gallery on our main WA Roofing website.

Our Process for Roof Window Repairs

We keep things simple and easy to understand. Here’s how we repair a leaking pitched roof window, from the moment you contact us to the job’s completion.

Step 1: Inspection and Diagnosis

We always start with a proper inspection. One of our experienced roofers checks the window from both inside and outside, where possible. We identify where the leak is coming from and clearly explain our findings.

Step 2: Honest, Fixed Quote

You’ll get a fixed quote for the repair. No surprises. We explain exactly what needs to be done, what materials we’ll use, and how long it will take.

Step 3: Repair

We repair efficiently and to a high standard. This could mean replacing flashing, resealing the frame, refitting glass, or cleaning out the roof area. We treat the cause, not just the symptom.

Step 4: Final Check and Clean-up

Once done, we check everything thoroughly. We make sure all parts are correctly sealed, aligned, and that the area is cleaned up before we leave.

Our repairs give you peace of mind and help keep your home protected from stormy weather. To request a roof window repair in Staffordshire, get in touch with our team at WA Roofing.

Long-Term Damage from Untreated Leaks

Leaving even a small roof window leak can create long-lasting problems that are expensive to fix later. Here’s what can happen if you put off a repair:

• Structural damage: Water can seep into timber and weaken the roof frame.
• Insulation issues: Soaked insulation loses its warming properties, leading to cold drafts and higher energy bills.
• Mould and mildew: These grow fast in damp conditions and can affect your health.
• Interior damage: Your walls, plaster, and paint won’t look good under dripping leaks.

Regular maintenance helps prevent all of this. If you suspect your roof window is leaking, it’s always worth getting it checked sooner rather than later.

FAQs

How do I know if the leak is from the window or the roof?

We’re often asked this. Usually, we can tell within a few minutes of inspecting the inside and outside of the window. If water marks are directly above the window, it might indicate a roof issue. If it’s around the edges or dripping through the frame, then it is more likely the window. Still, it takes a trained eye to tell for sure.

Can I fix a leaking roof window myself?

Confident DIYers can do minor fixes like cleaning out blocked gutters or tightening some parts. But anything involving flashing, sealing, or internal damage is best left to the professionals. The risks of further damage or injury are too high.

How much does it cost to repair a roof window?

Prices vary depending on the type of window, the cause of the leak, and the extent of damage. But we pride ourselves on affordable repairs. Our team will always give you a clear price before starting anything. We don’t charge for hidden extras. Check out our guides at WA Roofing for further details.

Do you repair Velux windows in Staffordshire?

Yes, we cover all of Staffordshire and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re in Stoke, Stafford, or Newcastle-under-Lyme, we’re happy to visit and assess your roof window. You can easily book a visit online or call us directly.

Will a roof window repair stop future leaks?

Absolutely. If the problem’s caught in time and properly fixed, there’s no reason it should recur. We focus on repairs that last, and we stand by the quality of the work we do.

Weatherproof Your Home with WA Roofing

A leaking pitched roof window doesn’t need to be a nightmare. Whether it’s flashing, seals or the window itself, our friendly team at WA Roofing specialises in finding the problem and putting it right. We work across Staffordshire, delivering affordable, high-quality repairs that help to keep your home warm, dry and safe.

If you’ve got a leaky Velux window or another rooflight that’s letting water in, let us handle it. Repairs are often quicker and cheaper than people expect, especially when caught early.

Please find out more about our roof window repair service, or give us a call today to get your roof weatherproof again.