Why Roof Leaks Happen Even on Brand-New Custom Homes
Why Roof Leaks Happen Even on Brand-New Custom Homes
You’d think a brand-new custom home would be leak-proof for decades—but the reality can be surprisingly different. At Christensen Roofing, we’ve seen first-hand that even million-dollar properties with brand-new roofs are not immune to leaks. And in San Diego County, where design-forward coastal homes are the norm, we’ve been called in to perform roof leak repair on new construction more often than you’d expect.
So why do these leaks happen in the first place? And more importantly—how do we fix them right the first time?
Let’s take a closer look.
The Myth of “New Roof = No Leaks”
When homeowners invest in a custom build, it’s easy to assume the roof will be problem-free. After all, it’s new, right?New Paragraph But here's the truth: the complexity of custom architecture, combined with installation shortcuts and environmental stressors, often leads to issues you won't see until the first big rainstorm hits. And by then, you're dealing with water spots, drywall damage, and frustration.
That’s where a professional
leaking roof repair service like ours comes in.
Common Causes of Leaks in Brand-New Homes
1. Improper Flashing Installation
Flashing is one of the most critical details in a roofing system. It directs water away from chimneys, skylights, walls, and valleys. But if it’s installed incorrectly—or worse, skipped altogether—it becomes one of the biggest leak culprits. At Christensen Roofing, we routinely find missing or poorly fitted flashing during inspections, even in recently finished homes.
2. Vent and Skylight Integration Mistakes
Luxury homes often include skylights, multiple ventilation points, and custom roof penetrations. Each one needs a tailored waterproofing approach. If your general contractor relies on a crew without roofing-specific training, water can easily find its way inside around these vulnerable areas.
3. Underlayment Failures
The underlayment beneath your tiles or shingles acts as a final barrier against moisture. But not all underlayment materials are created equal, and some builders cut corners. At Christensen Roofing, we only use premium-grade, double-layer underlayment for maximum longevity and leak resistance—especially crucial in coastal climates.
4. Architectural Oversights
Modern custom homes often feature low-slope roof sections, flat rooftop decks, or complex drainage designs. These architectural choices can trap water instead of moving it off the roof. Without expert planning, leaks are almost inevitable. We work closely with homeowners and architects to ensure beautiful design never compromises durability.
Coastal Conditions Add Extra Pressure
In places like Encinitas, Del Mar, and La Jolla, homes are exposed to salt air, strong winds, and fluctuating temperatures. These conditions wear out roofing components faster than inland environments.
Even high-end materials can suffer premature failure if they aren’t chosen and installed with these stressors in mind. That’s why our roof leak repair services are designed specifically for Southern California’s unique weather patterns.
How Christensen Roofing Gets It Right
We don’t believe in quick fixes or “good enough” solutions. Every
leaking roof repair service we offer is backed by expert inspection, top-tier materials, and meticulous installation.
Here’s what sets us apart:
● Experienced Roof Leak Detection: Our techs use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and years of hands-on experience to pinpoint leaks others miss.
● High-Performance Materials: From CertainTeed Landmark Pro shingles to premium flashing systems, we use only trusted products designed to last.
● Custom Solutions for Custom Homes:
We adapt every repair to fit the style, slope, and structure of your home—not just the standard manual.
Don’t Let a New Roof Fool You
Whether your home is 30 days or 30 years old, leaks can happen. And when they do, you need a trusted team that specializes in lasting, professional roof leak repair.
If you’re seeing signs of water damage—or you just want peace of mind—contact Christensen Roofing today for a full inspection. Our expert leaking roof repair service ensures your investment stays protected for decades to come.
Christensen Roofing proudly serves San Diego County with expert roofing services backed by quality, care, and craftsmanship. We don’t just fix leaks—we protect your home for the long haul.
