Finding the Leak in Your Roof
How to Find the Leak in Your Roof
The smallest leak on your roof can cause serious damage to your home. If a leak goes unfixed for too long, it can cause mold growth which is not only unsanitary, but potentially dangerous to your health. Locating the source of the leak and getting it fixed as soon as possible should be your top priority. If you need help finding the leak in your roof, follow the steps below and get it repaired quickly.
Figure Out if You Have a Leak
The usual signs of a leak are the sight and sound of dripping water. Of course, there are other signs you’ll likely encounter, regardless of whether it’s raining or not. These include:
- Musty odors in certain rooms.
- Water stains on your ceiling.
- Spots on your exterior walls.
- Bulging patches on your interior walls.
- Missing or warped shingles.
If you notice any of these signs, then you may be dealing with a leak in your roof. Unfortunately, the first place you notice it may not actually be where the leak is coming from. To find where the leak is, you’ll have to investigate.
Check Your Attic
If you have an attic in your home, it’s best to run up with a flashlight and see if you find anything. Watch where you step, look for water stains, mold, or any black marks along the rafters and roof sheathing.
If You Don’t Have an Attic
If your home doesn’t have an attic, then head up to your roof and check for signs of damage. Look around for any exposed nails, missing shingles, and debris that may have cause damage to the roofs integrity.
Make Repairs Where You Can
If you’re able to find the source of the leak, depending on the location, you may be able to fix some things on your own. If you have the knowledge and tools to do so, consider making minor immediate fixes.
Here are a few common ways to stop a roof leak:
- Replace Damaged Shingles: If the leak is coming from a damaged shingle, remove the nail holding it in place and scrape up any remaining roofing cement. Take a new shingle, lay down fresh cement and then nail the replacement shingle over the exposed area.
- Reapply Caulk Around Chimneys, Vents and Window Edges: If you find a leak around any of these elements, try replacing the caulk around the flashing. This will fill in any gaps that may have opened up since the roof was last replaced.
- Fix Plumbing Vent Boots: Damaged vent boots can let water in where it shouldn’t be. You can find replacements at any hardware store. Though if the existing boot is in good shape, you may just need to replace the screws with rubber-washered ones. These will keep water from seeping in through the screw holes.
Call a Professional
If the problem is beyond a simple DIY fix or involves extensive structural damage to your roof, call a professional as soon as possible. They will be able to identify the extent of your roof leak and provide repair estimates. Solutions to more complex problems may include:
- Replacing Roof Flashing
- Installing Heat Cables
- Total Roof Replacements
If you need to replace your roof, you’ll have a ton of shingles and debris to dispose of. An easy solution to the mess is renting a dumpster! You’ll keep your yard clear of roofing material and have it removed in a timely manner. Contact us at Waste Solutions 123 for a free quote!