If you want to avoid extensive repairs to your roofing system and protect your interior from damage, it is critical to detect roof leaks early. For many homeowners, Roof Leak Detections may be is a water stain on a ceiling or wall. By the time such stains appear, the roof could possibly have been leaking for weeks or even months. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to detect potential roof leaks early, allowing you to take action before additional damage can be done.
What To Look For
It is best to check for missing shingles periodically, but it is essential to do so following a storm that produced high winds. Stand at street level and look for missing shingles. Walk around your home to check from all angles. Keep an eye out for any pieces of ridge cap or shingles on the ground that may have blown off.
Look for Damaged Shingles
This is another check that you can perform from the ground using a pair of binoculars. You should do this type of inspection on a regular basis, especially after a heavy rain, high winds or a hailstorm. Look for shingles that are cracked or broken, have lost their granules, are curled or that move in the wind. All of these damages can result in leaks that can rot decking or penetrate to the interior.
Look for Missing or Damaged Flashing
Flashing plays an important role in keeping your roof watertight. Bent, cracked or missing flashing around skylights, chimneys, roof vents or other locations can give water an easy path to penetrate beneath the shingles.
Look for Damaged Gutters, Soffit and Fascia
Gutters that are damaged or clogged may be unable to drain runoff, so the water can back up under the edges of the shingles. Damaged soffit and fascia boards can also be sources of leaks.
Call a Reputable Contractor
It is often difficult for a homeowner to pinpoint the source of a roof leak. The stain on the ceiling, for example, may be the result of water that has penetrated many feet away and traveled horizontally before moving down. Experienced roofing contractors know how to track down Roof Leak Detections, and they have the equipment and experience to conduct a rooftop inspection safely.