Leaky Roof? Tips and Tricks for DIY Detection
It's a rainy day, and suddenly, you hear that dreaded drip, drip, drip… If you’ve checked the faucets to be sure they’re all off, you may have a leak. But before you start panicking, let's take a deep breath and tackle this issue together.
Knowing how to locate a roof leak quickly can save you from dealing with severe water damage and extensive repairs. Luckily, with a little know-how, you can identify these leaks before they get out of hand!
(If you’re a renter, contact your landlord ASAP.)
Find the General Area
First, let’s take a walk around the house and look and listen to see if we can find the location. Here are some leak detection tips to watch for:
Water Stains: Look for discolored patches on your ceiling or walls. These are often a clear sign of water infiltration.
Audible Drips: If you hear water dripping indoors, it's time to investigate. Ignoring it won't make the problem go away.
Mold and Mildew: The presence of mold or mildew indoors indicates excessive moisture, often caused by a leak.
Once you’ve identified the area of your home where the leak is, the first thing to do is contain it. Grab some buckets and towels and move any rugs, furniture, or keepsakes you don’t want to be ruined.
Identify the Source
Now, let's pinpoint the source. But not all leaks are roof leaks, so be sure to rule out other possibilities as well!
Check for faulty piping.
Make sure your HVAC and water heater are in good working order.
Leaks from bathrooms, sinks, and laundry rooms.
Once you’ve ruled out interior leaks, it's time to turn our attention to the roof.
Check Outside for Damaged Shingles: Inspect your roof for any signs of damaged or missing shingles. These vulnerable spots leave you susceptible to leaks during heavy rainfall.
Clogged Gutters: Blocked gutters impede the proper flow of water away from your roof, increasing the risk of leaks. Regular gutter maintenance is the key to prevention.
Check your Attic: Look for signs of water damage, mold, water stains, or musty smells.
Inspect the Surface of Your Roof: Check around all your seams, vents, and chimneys for signs of water damage or pooling water. You should also examine any areas where debris can trap moisture along the surface of the roof.
Just Add Water!
It sounds counterintuitive, but if you haven’t found the source of your leak after all of your searching, you may need to test it out with more water. Yes, it’s time to water the roof. You read that right. Your neighbors may look at you a little funny, but it’s highly effective at detecting those hard-to-find leaks.
Have someone help you by staying inside near where you first noticed the signs of the leak. From outside, take a garden hose and begin spraying your roof slowly, one section at a time. Spend a couple of minutes in each section to narrow down the location of the leak. Have your partner give you a signal when they notice signs of dripping.
You’ve found the leak—Now what?
If you’re a homeowner. It’s best to contact a reputable professional to assess and address the issue ASAP!
The best time to catch a leaky roof is before it happens. Schedule regular inspections to catch potential issues and avoid costly damage. Inspections are generally recommended annually, but it never hurts to get out there and give it a visual once over yourself when the seasons change!
