Is your roof leaking? We all know the dreadful feeling that comes from noticing water stains in the ceiling or a puddle on the floor. Catching those leaks early can mean the difference between an expensive replacement and a basic home repair. Here are some tips that will help you spot a leaky roof and find the source.
The most direct method is to simply go up into the attic and have a look around. Are there signs of water leakage on the rafters or insulation? Signs of a leak would include black marks around roofing nails or the underside of the roof boards. Mold can also be a sign of a leaky roof, or lack of proper venting.
If you notice a leak, track it down by looking above the stains. Look around any penetrations in the roof such as piping, plumbing, ventilation, dormers and chimneys. Water is subject to gravity and will always take the path of least resistance and that path is typically found in one of these places. It is rare that a roof will just start leaking in a spot of uninterrupted shingles, unless the shingles themselves are deteriorated.
If the pesky leak still isn’t obvious, have a professional climb on the roof with a garden hose. Have your helper start hosing down the area where the leak appears. From there, work up from the stains and let the water find the leak. Take your time and soak each area thoroughly before moving on. When the leaking starts, have your helper mark the area being soaked as this spot is most likely the source of your leaky roof.
Still can’t find the leak? Check your gutters. Leaves, branches and other objects could be blocking your gutters and backing up into your home.
If you are feeling adventurous, and have some basic roofing knowledge you can start carefully pulling up roof shingles in the leaky area. The shingles are the least of your concern if your roof is leaking. And with the shingles out of the way, spotting the leak will be that much easier. Rotted wood, water stains and discolored paper are all signs of a leak. Look above the stains to find your leak, paying special attention to any areas where the roof is penetrated by a dormer, plumbing, ventilation or a chimney.
At any point in this process you feel overwhelmed or if you simply don’t want to start hosing off your roof and ripping up shingles, don’t be afraid to call in a professional. Professional roofers have been assessing and repairing roofs for a long time and possess the experience and knowledge to get the job done right. The worst thing you can do is wait too long!
About the author: Excel Roofing is a Denver roofing company that specializes in residential roofing, windows and exteriors. Excel has been serving Colorado since 1993. At Excel Roofing, you don’t pay a cent until you’re content.
