A leaky roof or missing shingles can quickly lead to serious roofing issues, which can become a costly repair process. The best way to deal with roofing issues is to catch them early and fix them as quickly as possible.
Even though there are a few ways to fix minor leaks, it’s always best to call experts in residential roofing services to get a second opinion. You might not realize that the leak is the result of a larger issue that’s out of your hands. A pro will be able to diagnose the problem quickly and prevent even worse damage in the future.
In the meantime, you can take a look at the leak yourself with this DIY guide.
Finding the Leak
A leaky roof is evident if you find water stain stretching across ceilings or running down walls. Keep in mind if you live in snowy climates and only have leaked on sunny or warm days in the winter, you might actually have ice dams. That is another problem residential roofing services can help with.
The first step to finding a leak is to check the roof uphill from the stains. Explore for any roof penetrations because this is the most common source of leaks.
It is uncommon for leaks to appear in areas of uninterrupted shingles. Penetrations might stem from dormers, chimneys, roof vents, or anything else projecting through the roof. Leaks might spring near these penetrations.
If you have attic access, go up with a flashlight and search for evidence. This might include black marks, water stains, or mold. If you have a vaulted ceiling or no access, you will have to go to the rooftop to find the source.
Finding the Tough Leak
If a leak is proving to be especially difficult to locate, a good idea is to have a partner go on the rooftop with a hose. Start low and soak the area above where the leak has appeared.
Isolate areas as you run the hose to identify the drip when it appears. The hose should run in each area for several minutes before moving to a new section.
When the drip becomes visible, you will know you are in the vicinity of the leak. Bear in mind this might take over an hour to complete.
If you have to, start removing shingles to get right to the source. Discolored felt paper, rotted wood, and water-stained wood will be dead giveaways of a leak.
How to Fix It
After locating the source of the leak, it is time to get roof leak repair. There are a few solutions to a leaky roof that are quite easy to manage on your own. If it has sprung from curled shingles masking the leak, replace those shingles. This can be accomplished with sealant and a caulking gun under the raised shingles. Then press the edges down with roof cement to lock it in place.
You can also secure problem areas with washer-head roofing screws to tighten the base of vent boots and other protrusions to the house. A leak caused by nails, screw holes, or other punctures should be patched at the source of the hole with a proper sealant.
If the leak proves to be too complicated to address on your own, always call in an expert. A roof should last more than twenty years, so take proper care to ensure the longevity of your roof.
Is a Roof Leak Really Urgent?
If you trace the source of the leak to the roof, it should be fixed as quickly as possible even if the leak does not seem to be that bad. Even in a short time span, leaks can lead to big problems such as:
- Rotted framing
- Mold
- Destroyed insulation
- Further damage to ceilings
By addressing it immediately, you can avoid further damage and expenses.