How To Check Roof For Leaks

Sometimes the water shows up at a ceiling spot distant from the leak.

How to check roof for leaks. Today we re going to help you find the source of your leaking roof and look at options to fix the roof leak. Roof leaks present multiple challenges for homeowners. If you don t have an attic or just can t find the source of the leak you can check several places for problems with moisture or damage. They never occur at a time which is convenient and they can lead to significant damage to the interior of your home.

Roof leaks can be cause by missing shingles gaps in the metal flashing around chimneys and vent pipes or small holes in the roofing. In fact it is estimated that mold can start to grow on damp surfaces within 24 to 48 hours. After you pinpoint the location on the exterior of the roof apply roofing cement or new shingles as needed. On a nice day have a helper tap on the mark while you re on the roof.

The longer your roof leaks the higher the cost will be when you repair it. Some roof leaks are tough to locate. You can have great success sealing roof leaks yourself using clear silicone based or copolymer synthetic rubber sealants and without having to pay a roofer. Most noticeable to the eye are leaks caused by an object for example an errant nail that s managed to pierce the roof.

If your ceiling has a plastic vapor barrier between the drywall and the attic insulation push the insulation aside and look for flow stains on the plastic often water runs to openings in the vapor barrier such as at ceiling light fixtures. Sealants are extremely affordable and can be found at your local hardware store lowe s or home depot. Failing any such obvious signs check out the roof vents.