How Can You Locate the Source of Your Roof Leaks?

The snow and ice are melting and spring is in the near future. Roof leaks, that were unable to be repaired because of the ice and snow, can now be detected and stopped. However, do you know how to locate the source?

If you have one or more roof leaks then finding out where the problem is starting can be tricky at times, for a number of reasons. The moisture may be coming in far from where you are seeing the leak happen. It might be impossible to follow the water trail back to the source because walls and other home components may block your path. Some steps you can try to find the leak include:

• Once leaking starts, you should check the roof surface if possible, to see if there are any visual defects in the roofing materials or any open areas that are not protected.
• Have the chimney of your home inspected and evaluated, to make sure there are no cracks or broken areas of concrete.
• Look to see if water can flow freely from the roof or if the passage is being blocked in some way. This can lead to pooling that may cause damage.
• Evaluate the shingles or other materials used on the roof and determine if they are aged or degraded in some way.
• An experienced roofer has the knowledge needed to identify the sources of your leak quickly. They understand the most common areas and issues that are associated with leaking.

Roof Leaks can be very hard to Follow to the Source in Some Cases

Finding roof leaks is not always easy; sometimes this is a complex process that involves many different factors. If you can easily identify the problem great, if not then call in the experts.

Are there any Visible Defects or Openings in the Roof?

Many roof leaks are caused by something simple, like gaps in the materials from ice damage or other problems. Look and see if you can find any visible defects or openings in the roof, because if this is the case then you have probably identified how the water is getting into your home and where the leaks are coming from.

One common mistake is to find continuous sidewall flashing installed with comp shingles. It’s always wrong. They always require step-flashing.

Source: InterNachi

A Chimney Inspection May Identify the Issue

Often roof leaks are caused because of chimney issues, and a chimney inspection will show this. If there is any flashing missing, if the concrete has shrunk and left gaps, if the chimney is not covered, or if there are any cracks or other damage to the chimney structure then water may be able to penetrate the roof and create a leak in the home.

In an earlier article we talked about 6 Common Causes and Solutions for a Leaking Chimney click here to read that article.

Can Water Flow Off the Roof Freely or is it Blocked Somewhere?

One of the first things that should be done with roof leaks is to check and see if the flow of water from the roof surface is blocked in any way. Gutters full of leaves and other debris, blocked downspouts, and other blockages can cause water to back up and create a pool on the roof, and this can cause damage to the roof and create defects where water can come in.

Are the Shingles or Other Roofing Material Old or Degraded in Any Way?

One of the common reasons for roof leaks is an older roof that has become damaged or degraded. As shingles and other roofing materials age they tend to dry out, and this can lead to cracking, breaking, curling, and other issues.

An Experienced Roofer Knows the Most Common Problem Areas and Issues

If you cannot quickly identify the source of your roof leaks then you should call a roofer immediately. The specialized knowledge and experience that a professional has will help them find your leak culprit fairly fast. They know the most common places to look and the most common issues that cause this problem.

Locating the source of your roof leaks is sometimes more difficult than fixing the actual problem. Be sure to fix any roof leaks before they cause substantial damage.

…small leaks can lead to big problems, such as mold, rotted framing and sheathing, destroyed insulation and damaged ceilings.

Source: FamilyHandyman.com

How have you dealt with roof leaks in the past? Did you call a professional?