How to Find, Stop and Prevent a Roof Leak

Did you know that pesky wet spot on your ceiling could be a sign of a roofing leak?

Dealing with a roof leak can be inconvenient and cost hundreds of dollars in repairs. The best way to avoid a roof leak is through routine maintenance and inspections.

Knowing what to do in the case of a roofing leak can help you avoid extensive and costly damage to your home. In this post, we will explore how to find, stop, and prevent roofing leaks.

How to Find a Roof Leak

There is tale tell signs you may be experiencing a roof look. Knowing what signs to look for can help address the leak before it causes major damage to your home or place of business.

Common signs of a roof leak:

Spots on the ceiling, walls, or roof

When there is a leak, you may notice moisture or mold spots. Excess amounts of condensation on the ceiling or wall can indicate a roof leak. If excessive moisture is not addressed, it can lead to mold growth.

Loose or damaged flashing

Flashing is placed wherever the roof intersects with the foundation of the home. It keeps water flowing away from the house, towards the gutters. If the home’s flashing is damaged or not properly placed, water can enter the home and cause a leak.

Granule Loss

Experiencing a bit of granule loss over time is normal. However, when you notice a buildup of granules near the gutter, it may be a sign of weakened or damaged granules.

Granule loss leaves your shingles more exposed, which leaves your roof prone to leaks.

Stoping Roof Leaks

If you notice any signs of a roof leak, you should consider calling a professional roofing company. A professional roofing company is specially trained to identify signs of roofs leaks and other common roofing issues.

They can inspect the surface, foundation, and perimeter of the roof to identify any issues. They will create a report detailing the source of the roof leak and recommend any necessary repairs.

Preventing Roof Leaks

The best way to prevent roof leaks is through regular maintenance and routine inspections by a professional roofing company. Many roofs leak when water is not able to flow correctly, causing it to pool in a specific location.

To avoid roof leaks, consider these key tips:

Avoid blocking ventilation units. Proper ventilation can help reduce the risk of moisture buildup and mold.
Maintain and clear the gutters. Clogged gutters can prevent water from flowing away from the home, which can cause water to back up and pool under your roof shingles.
Keep bushes and trees away from the roof. Overhanding branches can damage the shingles and block water flow in your gutters.
Perform routine maintenance on roof flashings. Damaged flashings can cause water to enter the home, resulting in leaks, moisture spots, and mold.
Schedule routine roof inspections. Inspectors can spot weak spots in the roof and address them before any damage takes place.