Roof Leak Detection In Seattle WA

Roof Leak Diagnosis 

Few things strike fear into the heart of a homeowner like the phrase “leaky roof.” Catching a roof leak early can mean the difference between a simple do-it-yourself repair and calling in a professional roofing company. Here are some tips to determine if a roof is leaking and ultimately finding the culprit.

 A good place to start is to simply look up at the ceiling. Darkened tiles are a surefire sign that you have some water reaching places it shouldn’t. Other signs include finding moldy corners in rooms or a foul, “moldy” odor.

 The next place to inspect would be the attic. If water is leaking through the roof, the attic will show some signs of water leakage. Go up with a flashlight and check for water stains, mold or other signs of water like black marks or water stains. Look for signs of water staining on the underside of the roof boards. The insulation in the attic will show signs like water stains if the roof is leaking.

To track down a leak (if one is discovered), start by looking at the roof above the stains. Look for any holes or other penetrations in the roof. Items that penetrate the roof are by far the most common source of leaks. For example, roofing nails that have started to leak will have dark spots around the nail. It is rare that a roof will develop a leak in open areas of uninterrupted shingles. Check areas around roof vents, plumbing, chimneys, dormers or anything else that is built through the roof.

Sometimes gutters get blocked and can back up. These blocks can act just like a roof leak so make sure the gutters are clear.

If the problem still is not obvious recruit a helper to climb on the roof with a garden hose. In the attic, knock on the area where the leak appears to be so the helper knows where to start applying the water. Start soaking the area just above the leak and work up from there. Soak each area for a few minutes before moving on to a higher area. This will give the water ample time to work its way through the roof and spot the leak. Give a yell when the leak becomes visible. The leak will be in this area. Remember to be patient and don’t move too quickly. Let the water do its work.

If running water over the roof doesn’t reveal the location of the leak don’t be afraid to start pulling up shingles in the area of the leak. Remember the sooner the leak is found, the sooner it can be fixed. With the shingles out of the way, tracking the leak should be even easier. Discolored paper, water stains, rotted wood will all be in the vicinity of the leak. Start looking up from the stains for any penetrations in the roof as this is the likely the source of the leaking roof.

A leaking roof is always cause for alarm. Tracking the leak and having it repaired as quickly as possible is always the best course of action. Don’t hesitate to call a roofing expert out to the home. Professional roofers have been dealing with leaky roofs and other roofing issues for years and have the knowledge and experience to get the job done.

This guest post was provided by Excel Roofing a quality roofing company in Colorado.