Leaking roofs can quickly become a serious problem. Roof leaks can cause water damage inside and outside of your home. These effects include stains, ruined drywall, and long-term consequences like mold and insect infestations. The sooner you find a leak on your roof, the better.
To prevent future or recurring leakage, it is important that your roof be repaired by a professional contractor. You can still take these steps to identify the source of the leakage and minimize the damage until a professional contractor arrives to repair the roof.
1. Look inside for signs of water damage
Most roof leaks are first noticed by homeowners from within the home. Water dripping from the roof when it rains is an obvious sign. Sometimes, a leaky roof can show more subtle signs.
Water stains on walls or ceilings are a sign that you need to do some investigation. You should take note of the size and spread speed. To keep track, you might draw them with a pencil. You can also smell mold or mildew to determine if water is present.
2. Check your home’s exterior for signs of a roof leak
A roof leak could also be visible from the outside. Sagging or discolored fascia and soffits could be signs of a roof leak. You might feel some roof areas feel soft or spongy if you climb onto them safely and always.
Roof leaks are often preceded by weather events, so make sure you check your room after a major storm or hurricane. Although it is rare in Central Florida to experience ice dams, they can occur if temperatures drop below freezing. Ice dams can be caused by roof leaks that occur immediately after a freeze.
3. Document and locate the source of the leak
After you have found that your roof is leaky, check inside and outside of your home to find the source. You should check the access points within the house before climbing onto the roof. Check your crawl spaces, attic, and utility closet. To find puddles or soft spots, mold, or any other sign that could lead to the source, use a bright flashlight.
You can climb onto the roof by looking uphill from any spots that have water or stains. You should inspect chimneys, roof vents, and dormers. You should look for missing shingles or gaps between seams. Pay attention to any areas that feel weak underfoot. Once you have narrowed down the problem area you can begin to remove a few shingles to check for evidence. You might also find discolored wood or felt.
It’s always a good idea, if you are unsure, to call a professional to find and confirm the source.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of Old Time Roofing which is the best roofing company in Clearwater! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF, and an achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.