How to Identify Where That Leak Is
A leaking roof is a problem every homeowner hopes to avoid, probably even spend several decades without paying for major repairs. However, they are inevitable and may prove problematic when not addressed promptly. The most common signs of a leaking roof you’ll likely encounter are a patch in your ceiling or mold growth. However, for a more comprehensive overview, keep reading below
Water Stains on the Ceiling and Walls
Water stains are the easiest way to identify or rule out a possible leak. These stains can as well be caused by a plumbing issue in your attic or condensed moisture. Immediately you notice these stains, you should contact a roofing expert to inspect your roof and provide a comprehensive report. Leaving this issue for too long can cause irreparable damage to the ceiling and even affect the integrity of your walls. In severe cases, it facilitates the growth of mold and fungi, which quickly spread to other parts of the house.
Dripping Water
Dripping water, especially when it’s raining, is a clear indication of a roof leak. Identifying a drip may be challenging without regular inspection, meaning you have to regularly inspect your roof. You could do this by pouring water onto the roof or waiting for rain. While drip may not be present at all times, you should deal with it at the source before it gets out of hand. Keep in mind that even intermittent leaks are likely to cause damage to your roof.
Mold on Your Walls
Mold thrives in damp, dark areas, including attics and basements. Seeing mold on your walls (interior and exterior) and your ceiling could be a sign you are dealing with a roof leak. To find the leak, use a tape measure to determine its distance from a corner, then measure the same distance on your roof to find the source of the leak. Homes built on a gentle slope will likely experience leakage from the downspout, causing accelerated mold growth. Contacting a professional from Lexington Blue can help determine the nature of the leak and possible remedies.
Puddle of Water
A puddle of water on your roof or inside the house is an indication of a plumbing issue. Once you identify a plumbing issue, you should get a roofing expert to find the source. Some of these puddles may go unnoticed for a long time, especially in rarely used rooms like the attic or garage. To identify the leaks, you can check the roofing close to where the puddles are located.
Damaged or Missing Shingles
Roofing shingles are the first line of defense against downpours. It also protects the inner layer, which includes an insulator. A damaged or missing shingle could mean water can enter your home; however, this may take a while to notice due to the roofing layers. Regularly inspecting your roof helps identify cracked, damaged, or missing shingles for you to replace before causing more damage. Replacing missing shingles not only fixes your leaks but also restores the integrity of your roof.
Damaged Flashing
Flashings are important for the sturdiness of your vents, roof, or chimney and are likely to come off during heavy storms. Having a damaged or missing flashing could lead to leaks causing water damage to your walls. Identifying and replacing the damaged section on time helps prevent extensive damage to your roof.
It’s worth noting that flashings around chimneys can be a major contributor to roof leaks. It’s advisable to have a professional roofing service inspect and maintain your flashing regularly to stop the leaks. Residents of Central Kentucky can take advantage of the warranty offered by Lexington Blue for their roofing repair and replacement services when dealing with damaged flashing.
Damaged Plumbing Vent Boots
A rotten or damaged plumbing vent, usually found on the roof, can cause roof leaks. Water travels down the outside of these pipes into your house, causing water damage to the surrounding area. Immediately you notice a damaged plumbing vent boot call a roofing expert to assess the damage and repair the damaged section.
Repairing a leaking roof is a step towards prolonging the life cycle of your roof. Some of the leaks can go unnoticed for long, causing extensive damage not only to the roof but also the walls. Taking preventive measures, such as covering exposed nails, can help prevent oxidization and subsequent leaks. Regular inspections from a certified firm such as Lexington Blue in Central Kentucky help find and seal these leaks.
