Finding Roof Leaks Easily
All About Finding Roof Leaks
The challenge in finding roof leaks is discovering the leak’s origin point. While it may seem intuitive that leak would originate on the part of the roof directly above the leak, this is not necessarily true. The origin of the leak, and where the leak expresses itself inside your home, can be a dozen feet away from each other. Luckily, there are various investigative techniques you can utilize to fix your problem. That’s why finding roof leaks will actually put you in the role of a detective before you can play the role of the repairman.
The Water Method
Water is a predictable substance. It will flow pretty much the same way every time. If you add water to your tile, flat, or gravel roof, you can watch it flow and observe the path the water takes. This will help tell you where the leak is coming from.
- To use this method, get up on your roof.
- Spray water on your roof around the area of the leak.
- Watch where the water naturally flows, and observe if the water appears to be flowing down inside the roof.
- If this is the case, the spot where the water flows into the roof needs to be repaired.
If you try this method but have no luck, you may want to consider calling professional help. With their trained eyes, they should be able to follow the water, and notice irregularities that you probably won’t notice.
Trouble Spots
There are certain signs that can indicate trouble. Much of the skill in finding roof leaks is being able to identify these spots, and know how to fix them.
- Check for discolored tiles or shingles. Usually, if a tile is discolored, that means water has been flowing or stuck under the tile, and mold has built up. Any damaged tile is like a chink in your roof’s armor. Replace the damaged tile immediately
- Flashings, the transitional material that connects the roof to the rest of the house, may be installed poorly. This can cause leaks, so you should make sure they are on tight. Also, if a flashing connector has rusted, this will need to be replaced.
- Make sure your metal roof is properly installed. If correctly installed, a good metal roof will form a leak-proof, interlocking grid. If your metal roof is leaking, perhaps part of it has been improperly installed.
- Skylights are known to be problem areas for leaks. Use the water method to see if this is the culprit of your leak.
- Chimneys also are known to have leak problems. Examine your chimney for holes or structural problems.
Finding roof leaks may become tricky if the above tips don’t work. You may need to employee specially trained people, or consult someone who can give you guidance on your particular type of roof. Don’t be discouraged, because every problem like this has a solution. It may not be apparent or easy to solve, but if your roof is leaking, there will be some sign.
