How to check for (and fix) a roof leak

Leaky roof? Sometimes nothing can be more frustrating. Often calling in an expert can make things simpler, quicker, and safer. But, if you are the handy-type, or would simply like to try to tackle a house project for yourself, below are some simple tips to help guide you:

1. Find the leak. (“Duh,” right?). While this is often the hardest part of fixing a leaky roof. Often where the leak comes through your ceiling is not the true source of the problem. Water can enter the roof in one place and run down to another before it starts soaking into the ceiling. You know your roof is bad if shingles are missing or obviously damaged, or when water stains the ceiling or walls. The goal is to find the leak before your entire roof needs to be replaced.

2. Repair the Leak. If you have an attic, the easiest way to spot the leak is to go up there on a rainy day. Water will reflect light, so bring a flashlight along. Once you locate the source of the water, mark the area. On a nice day, have a helper tap on the mark while you’re on the roof. After you pinpoint the location on the exterior of the roof, apply roofing cement or new shingles as needed.

If you don’t have an attic or just can’t find the source of the leak, you can check several places for problems with moisture or damage:

  • Boots , the rubber seals that are around the electric service and plumbing vent pipes, air vents, and exhaust fan flashing.
  • Ridge cap
  • Flashing
  • Gaskets around pipes
  • Shingles
  • Gutters and downspouts
  • Dormer valleys

Tip: If you don’t want to wait for rain to look for the leak, try bringing the garden hose up on the roof. Run the water over the place where you think the leak might be located. Don’t go crazy with the water; be sure to start small. Have a helper stationed in the attic with a flashlight looking for moisture. The water will reflect the light and make it easier to see.

Areas we Serve

By admin • June 16, 2023
Grand County, Colorado: Routt County, Colorado:

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