Water stains like this indicate an active roof leak that may have been occurring for weeks.
A roof leak rarely announces itself dramatically. Most leaks start small — a hairline crack in flashing, a single missing shingle — and slowly worsen over months until the damage is extensive and expensive. In Pinellas County's climate, where intense summer storms, heavy rainfall, hurricanes, and relentless UV exposure put roofs under constant stress, catching a leak early can save you thousands of dollars, prevent serious structural damage, and simplify your insurance claim.
As Pinellas County's trusted roofing professionals with over 10 years of experience, we've seen firsthand how a small, easily-fixed leak turns into a major repair because it went undetected. We help homeowners document damage for insurance claims and handle the entire restoration process. In this guide, we'll walk you through the 8 warning signs that your roof may be leaking — and what to do about each one.
Important: Never attempt to inspect or repair your own roof during or immediately after rain. Wet roofs are extremely slippery and dangerous. If you suspect an active leak, place buckets to collect water and call a professional immediately.
Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls
Brown or yellowish rings on your ceiling or walls are one of the most obvious signs of a roof leak. These stains indicate that water is penetrating your roof and soaking through insulation, decking, and drywall. Don't ignore even small stains — by the time water appears inside your home, the leak may have already been going on for weeks or months.
Pro Tip: Look for stains after heavy rain. If a stain grows or new ones appear, call a roofer immediately.
Missing, Cracked, or Curling Shingles
Your shingles are the first line of defense against rain. Missing shingles leave gaps where water can enter directly. Cracked or curling shingles are signs of age and UV degradation — very common in Florida's intense sun. When shingles lose their granules (you'll notice them in your gutters), they can no longer repel water effectively.
Pro Tip: After any major storm, do a visual inspection from the ground using binoculars — don't climb on a wet roof.
Damaged or Missing Flashing
Flashing is the thin metal installed around chimneys, skylights, vents, and roof valleys to create a watertight seal. Over time, flashing can corrode, pull away, or crack. When flashing fails, those joints become direct entry points for rainwater. This is one of the most common causes of roof leaks that homeowners overlook.
Pro Tip: Check flashings annually and after severe weather. Rust stains on your roof near these areas are a red flag.
Granules in Your Gutters
Asphalt shingles have protective granules that shield them from UV rays and weather. As shingles age, they shed these granules — and you'll find them accumulated in your gutters or downspouts. If you're seeing significant granule loss, your shingles are near the end of their lifespan and your roof's water-shedding ability is compromised.
Pro Tip: Clean your gutters regularly and check for granule buildup. Heavy accumulation after 10–15 years means it's time for a roof assessment.
Sagging Roof Deck
If sections of your roof appear to sag or dip when viewed from outside, that's a serious red flag. A sagging roof deck typically indicates prolonged moisture exposure that has caused the decking material (usually plywood or OSB) to soften and warp. This structural issue requires immediate professional attention — a compromised deck can collapse under heavy rain or foot traffic.
Pro Tip: Look at your roofline from the street. It should appear straight and even. Any dips or waves need urgent inspection.
Mold, Mildew, or Musty Odors in the Attic
Your attic is often where a roof leak first shows its presence. High humidity or dark wet spots on your attic rafters and insulation point to moisture intrusion. Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours of water exposure. Breathing mold spores is a serious health hazard for your family, and mold remediation can be expensive on top of roof repairs.
Pro Tip: Inspect your attic with a flashlight at least twice a year — after summer storms and before winter. Look for wet insulation or dark staining on wood.
Daylight Visible Through the Roof
If you can see shafts of light coming through your attic ceiling during the day, water can get in just as easily as light. Small gaps around nails, vents, or deteriorated shingles can let in both. While some light around vents is normal, any unexpected beams of daylight through roof boards should be investigated immediately.
Pro Tip: Turn off all attic lights on a sunny day and scan the roof deck for pinpoints of light. Mark any spots for your roofer to inspect.
Spike in Energy Bills
A less obvious sign of a roof leak is a sudden increase in your cooling or heating costs. When insulation gets wet from a leak, it loses its R-value (thermal resistance) and your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain indoor temperature. In Florida's heat, this can mean noticeably higher electric bills without any other explanation.
Pro Tip: If your energy bills spike unexpectedly and you can't attribute it to other causes, have your roof and attic insulation professionally inspected.
What to Do If You Spot Any of These Signs
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Document the damage — take photos of stains, damaged shingles, or attic moisture before anything changes.
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Don't wait for the problem to grow. Even a small leak can cause mold growth within 24–48 hours.
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Call a licensed roofing contractor for a professional inspection — many offer free assessments.
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If you have homeowner's insurance, contact your insurer. Many repairs from storm damage are covered.
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Avoid DIY patch jobs as temporary solutions can trap moisture and worsen the underlying issue.
The Bottom Line
Your roof is one of the most important investments protecting your home and family. In Largo and throughout Pinellas County, our sub-tropical climate means roofs face unique stresses — from hurricane-force winds to intense summer UV. Annual professional inspections, combined with your own watchful eye for these 8 warning signs, are the best way to catch problems early and keep repair costs manageable.
If you've noticed any of these signs, don't wait. Contact Largo Roofing Experts today for a free, no-obligation roof inspection. Our team of licensed Florida roofing contractors will identify any issues and provide a transparent, detailed repair estimate.