How to Trace the Source of a Leak
You’ve heard the saying “out of sight, out of mind” – but did you know it often applies to your home’s roof? A properly functioning roof (made up of many parts and components, detailed here) doesn’t really make you think about the barrier between the sky and your home. It’s not until you spot a dark water mark on your ceiling or see water dripping onto your floor that you start paying attention to your roof.
Detecting where a roof leak begins is finicky because water tends to travel downhill. Some roofing experts like to say “think like water” when it comes to finding the source of a roof leak. This is a good way of putting it since roof leaks are rarely directly above damaged ceiling areas. So, just because you see a dark stain on your ceiling, a few drops of water on your wall or feel a damp section in your carpet, don’t assume the roof leak is directly above. Once you first notice a leak, you’ll need to trace it back to find where it originates.
Are you afraid your roof has a leak and want to prevent it from getting too bad? Follow these tips:
- Regular Roof Inspection – It’s recommended to get a roof inspection once a year. Roofing contractors should look for any broken, cracked, curling, missing or eroded shingles on asphalt roofs. Save time and money by scheduling regular roof inspections.
- Check the Attic – As cumbersome as it may be to access your attic space, it’s a good idea to do so in order to detect roof leaks early. Be sure to check for any stained framing and see if the eaves are wet after heavy rainfall. Use a flashlight to inspect for leaks since water will reflect light. By travelling up to your home’s highest point, you can better identify the source of the leak and mend it.
- Attic & Roof Ventilation – One way to prevent roof leaks from becoming too problematic is to be sure you have proper roof ventilation to allow moisture to escape your attic. Avoid mold and other serious damage when roof leaks occur by ensuring you have a well-vented roof.
- Trace the Roof Slope – If you spot a leak, remember that water travels downward. The damage very well may be at the top of a roof slope but is running down and gathering at the bottom of your roof grade. Since water tends to run downhill, there may be several vulnerable points of entry.
- Simulate Rain – If you have the patience to wait for the next rain storm to detect where the water is entering your home, go that route. Otherwise, if you’re looking to fix the leak ASAP, grab a water hose and enlist the help of a friend to simulate a rain storm to see just where the water is infiltrating.
- Call in the Professionals – As soon as you notice signs of a roof leak, whether in the attic or especially in the interior of your home, call the best residential roofers near you to fix the issue. By calling for help at the first sign of trouble, you can get assistance right away before the damage becomes too serious (and more expensive).
Perhaps your roof installation was less than stellar and now you are paying the price with a leaky roof. Your roof flashing, roof vents or chimney flashing may not have been installed correctly or the best materials may not have been used. Maybe water is seeping through drill holes that were once made to hold a TV antenna or satellite dish. No matter the reason for the leak, it’s important to find residential roofers near you that you can trust.
Best Contracting – Lancaster PA #1 Residential Roofers
If you wake up to water dripping from your ceiling and you find yourself searching for the “best residential roofers near me,” look no more! Best Contracting, based in Lancaster PA, is here to provide excellence in all exterior renovations, including residential roofs. Whether your roof just needs repairs or is in need of replacement, we’re the team for you.
Please contact us at (717) 283-4524 to discuss roof repair options. We look forward to helping you “weather the storm” and get your roof back in working order (AKA dry and no holes!) ASAP!
