I Have A Leak In My Roof

Roofs can leak for a variety of reasons.

I have a leak in my roof.

Both danger and the probability of structural erosion increase if unaddressed. If shingles get lifted or torn from high winds the damaged shingle exposes nails holding the shingle below it. Interior mold and mildew issues. Inspect the underside of the roof for objects that have pierced it or have been attached to it.

Roof nail leaks can happen when roof nails have been loosened slightly from high winds or have simply pulled out over time. These fixed points can be perpendicular exterior walls a fireplace chimney or other components that extend through the finished ceiling to the attic space or roof surface. If your home has sustained roof damage from a tree or other falling debris that has made a visible hole in the roof it s better to have a professional roofing contractor make the roof leak repair. If the damage is minor sealing the damaged area with a roofing cement might do the job.

Water will reflect light so bring a flashlight along. Just remember that a small leak will not go away it will only get worse. Most noticeable to the eye are leaks caused by an object for example an errant nail that s. Now there are many ways to fix a roof leak and the best method depends on the severity and the nature of the damage.

Once you have determined that the leak is caused by a roof related issue measure the location of the leak in the living space from two fixed points. They can be improperly installed or inadequately maintained. In the longer term one of the most serious consequences of a leaking roof is mold and mildew growth. Where nails have worked loose.

What it depends on most is what caused the leak in the first place. The goal is to find the leak before the entire roof goes bad. Water typically comes in through worn broken or missing shingles. Once you ve verified that the leak is due to a hole on the roof s surface your next step is to patch it up.

If your roof is fewer than 15 years old it can probably be spot repaired instead of requiring a total replacement. In some cases a roof replacement might be necessary. Mold can spread throughout the home s structure to the hvac system and then to the rest of the house through the vents where it can invade carpets furniture and even clothing. They can simply deteriorate and wear out over time.

Roof leaks are typically just signs of a much larger problem. Most roof leaks are hard to find because it originates away from where the leak shows up. How to fix roof leaks. Or through corroded or poorly sealed roof flashing around vents skylights or chimneys or along the intersections of roof planes.

The question of whether roof leaks are covered by homeowners insurance can be answered in two words. Meanwhile tarp the roof to prevent additional water damage. If you have an attic the easiest way to spot the leak is to up there on a rainy day.