Have you been checking your roof lately? If not, you might not be aware of its issues until it rains and you get a leak. A roof leak can have a significant impact on your home whether the leak is big or small. If it’s not addressed quickly, mold growth can occur which is both unsightly and unhealthy. Therefore, it’s critical to locate the source of your roof leak and get it repaired as soon as possible.
Step 1: Search for the obvious signs of a roof leak.
It doesn’t matter if it’s raining or not when you first notice signs of a roof leak, you should still do your best to find where it is located. Some common signs of a leak and the accompanying water damage are areas where there is a musty odor, water stains on the ceiling or walls, exterior walls that have spots, missing or damaged shingles, and more. When you find one or more of these signs in your home, you should get started tracking down where the leak is located. Unfortunately, the leak might be located pretty far away from where the signs appear. This is because water can travel along pipes and other things inside the walls before it makes its appearance.
Step 2: Inspect Your Attic
To find the source of a roof leak in the attic, you can go into your attic with a flashlight. Look for evidence of water damage such as black streaks or spots on the roof sheathing and rafters. Be careful as you walk around in your attic since not all attics are designed to allow you to walk there.
Step 3: Make It Rain
If you’re not ready to wait for the rain before you can pinpoint the location of a leak, you could simulate it by using a garden hose. By methodically hosing down the roof one section at a time, you can usually find the leak quickly. You most likely will need the help of a friend that can be a spotter to let you know when the water is showing up inside the home.
Step 4: Make Repairs Where You Can
In cases where leaks develop in specific locations, DIY repairs are often an option. Common solutions include patching holes in the roof and patching cracks or breaks in the structure.
Step 5: For Complicated Leaks, Get a Professional Roofer
Professionals are better equipped to deal with issues that require extensive structural changes or repairs beyond a basic DIY approach. When reporting a roof leak, professionals will evaluate the extent of damage and provide estimates on the necessary repairs. Make sure you do your research and shop around to find the best roofer you can get.
