09/03/2026
We recently were called out to inspect a roof for a leaking issue. Here’s what we found…
When in doubt caulk it out… this appears to be the solution another contractor decided to go with.
This is a perfect example of “we can fix it” take your money and run with really no fix at all. In all honesty this made the leak even worse!
Does caulk work, absolutely! When applied properly and applied to proper locations that actually call for caulk to go. Over caulking areas, especially the one in this picture can lead to more problems.
Over-caulking a metal roof valley is bad because excess sealant blocks the natural flow of water, traps moisture, and breaks down under thermal movement.
Water damming and redirection creates dams: Thick globs of caulk act like miniature dams in the valley.
Forces leaks: Instead of flowing smoothly down the channel, water hits the caulk barrier, pools, and gets forced sideways or upward into tiny gaps in the panel laps.
Thermal movement and bond failure expands and contracts: Metal roofs constantly expand and contract with temperature changes.
Breaks the seal: Rigid or thick surface caulk cannot stretch enough. It tears loose from the metal.
Traps water underneath: Once a thick bead of caulk partially detaches, it forms a pocket that catches water and holds it directly against the metal surface, accelerating rust.
Maintenance nightmares and a short lifespan: Sealants degrade in the sun and weather much faster than metal panels.
Hard to re-seal: Piling fresh caulk over old, degraded caulk never works. The entire mess must be scraped off down to clean metal before a proper repair can be made.
The reason why we are bringing this to your attention? Be careful who you choose to do work on your largest asset, your home. It could cost you way more money down the line.
Don’t worry, we will get this fixed the proper way!
Ohio is home. We protect it.
