Finding Small Roof Leaks

Tracking down the leak is the hard part.

Finding small roof leaks.

Roof leaks present multiple challenges for homeowners. Here s how it works. Have a helper stationed in the attic with a flashlight looking for moisture. Finding the source of some leaks is easy.

Insulation deteriorates more noticeably and more quickly than wood does. Don t go crazy with the water. The other person will be inside the attic watching the area for water leaks. This can be a big help in locating a leak source.

The good news is that many issues with roof leaks commonly found in homes can be easily repaired. The roof leak repair is usually pretty easy. Even a small roof leak can cause significant damage to a home so it s important to find and correct a problem as soon as it s noticed on the ceiling. A leak may actually be eight to 10 feet sideways from where you see the wet ceiling or spot in the attic.

Run the water over the place where you think the leak might be located. How to water test your roof for leaks. But even a small out of the way drip in a house that seems like nothing more than an inconvenience is a major repair bill waiting to happen. Again practice safety first.

We ll show you some simple tricks for finding and repairing most of the common types of leaky roofs. They never occur at a time which is convenient and they can lead to significant damage to the interior of your home. Top 10 causes of roof leaks how to find and fix common roof leaks. This guide will give you some tips on how to find a roof leak and how to fix a leaky roof.

Roof leaks can be cause by missing shingles gaps in the metal flashing around chimneys and vent pipes or small holes in the roofing. But if you live in the snow belt and in the winter you have leaks only on warm or sunny days you probably have ice dams. Their effects can linger long after the repair has been made in the form of mold growth on the interior surfaces of your home. One person will be outside the house with a garden hose running water over the roof.

Maybe a new roof is in the near future and it seems like a folly to bother with a leak. During a heavy storm strong wind gusts can tear off shingles and cause leaks. The underside of your roof may be obscured by insulation and that s actually helpful for finding the roof leak. Be sure to start small.

Find a friend to help with the roof leak test. However horizontal roof boards can trick you. The source of a leak often isn t obvious on the roof itself and it can be hard to pinpoint since the water may run down the roof decking and rafters before dripping onto the ceiling below.