If you’ve recently had a leaky roof, you may wonder how to detect the source. Some of the most obvious causes are missing shingles, exposed fasteners, and the flashing around the vent pipes. In some cases, trees, twigs, and leaves can block roof drains, which is another cause. In such cases, a leak may be coming from an older roof. Here are a few ways to check for roof leaks and identify the source of the problem.
First, find out if you can access the attic. If so, you can look for signs of water and see if there’s a bulge. Otherwise, you’ll need to call the professionals to assess the damage. If you have access to the attic, you can skip this step and look for signs of water inside the attic. If you’re unable to reach the attic, you can still try to find the source of the leak and contact the appropriate professionals.
Next, call a commercial roofing contractor. They can repair a leaking roof quickly and easily. Whether you’re dealing with a roof leak caused by a pipe or a crack, a professional roofer will be able to help you repair the damage and get your insurance claim resolved. In some cases, you may even be able to grow a small garden on your roof. This will keep your roof looking green!
The gutter is another common source of roof leaks. The gutter is a system of channels that carry water away from the roof. If this is blocked, it allows water to pool and seep through the cracks. Then, the water can enter your home and cause ceiling leaks. If the gutter is clogged with debris, you can’t see the source of the problem. Then, you need to repair the gutter and repair the roof’s fascia.
While this method may not seem as effective, you can use a bottle funnel to redirect water out of your house. While it can be applied inside the house, it’s most effective in the attic. It’s easy to make this homemade roof funnel. Take an empty plastic jug or a large bottle and cut a wide opening in one end and a narrow bottleneck on the other. Attach the funnel to a hose and run it along the roof’s seam.
Keeping a roof leak free will also prevent mold and other environmental hazards from developing. The water can pass through HVAC systems and cause mold spores to grow. Mold spores can be very dangerous to people with allergies, asthma, environmental sensitivities, or compromised immune systems. Moreover, water damage can damage the insulation in your home and affect its effectiveness at keeping the interior temperature stable. Thus, it’s important to repair leaky roofs as soon as possible.
Damaged shingles are another cause of roof leaks. Incorrectly installed shingles or flashing can also lead to roof leaks. In addition, improperly installed objects on your roof can also interfere with the roof’s waterproofing. Poorly installed exhaust fans, for example, can cause leaks. Moreover, skylights often require their own flashing to prevent leaks. Luckily, there are a few simple ways to detect and prevent roof leaks.