How To Locate A Roof Leak

A leaky roof can cause major damage for your home. Not only will the moisture create problems for the structure, but it can also lead to dangerous mold. One of the most difficult tasks to fixing a leaking roof is finding where the source is. Once water enters the roof in one place, it can run down another before you notice it soaking through the ceiling. With these tips, you can successfully locate and stop the leak before damage gets any worse.

Check the ceilings and walls

The first way to detect a leak is by examining your walls and ceilings. You may notice bubbling or peeling paint. These are signs that too much moisture is being absorbed, most likely due to a leak. Now take a look at the color around the leaking spot. Clear water usually indicates the leak is coming from a pipe while a dark stain can indicate the roof as the source.

Investigate in the attic

After examining your ceiling and walls, head up to the attic for a closer look at the underside of your roof. Check for mold as well as any spot that appears darker than the roof sheathing. If you see either of these, you may have found the vulnerable point of your roof.

Take a look at your insulation

Another area you can easily spot damage is on the insulation covering the underside of the roof. Before working with insulation, it’s important to wear the appropriate protective gear to avoid direct skin contact. This includes long sleeves, gloves and goggles. Once you have someone suited up, carefully remove all insulation near the damaged area, and follow the path of water to the point in the roof it originally came from.

Contact Reader Roofing for repairs

If you have determined you have a leak from the inside, it’s important to seek a professional as soon as possible. Reader Roofing has over 100 years of experience inspecting and repairing both residential and commercial roofs. Give us a call at (216) 451-1355 to schedule an exterior inspection.