Many of us have heard the horror stories of someone’s roof caving in from excessive rains and rot due to neglect. It’s enough to make the most stalwart homeowner paranoid the moment water begins descending from the sky. So how do you know if everything is okay up there in the attic and on the roof of your home without the use of a drone?
Certainly, there are key methods of locating a leak or potential problem with your roof. Just be mindful of using the utmost care and attention when heading up and outside of your home to check for leaks.
ASSESS SPOTS ON EXTERIOR WALLS
The exterior of the house requires regular inspection. Water spots where walls meet the roof can direct you to leaky flashing and roof issues.
CHECK FOR WATER STAINS
The telltale signs of a water stain resemble a puddle on the ceiling with a brown ring around the edges. You may however only see a slight discolouration on walls or ceiling. Be aware that some stains may lurk in dark corners, so use good lighting to help locate them easily.
EXAMINE MISSING OR CURLED SHINGLES
If shingles have fallen off or blown away, leaving behind bare patches on the roof, it’s leaving the roof vulnerable to wet weather. Buckled shingles also point to potential roof leaks. Check around chimneys and vents as well. Next, curled shingles may be a sign of water absorption due to hot air trapped in the attic.
EXAMINE WALLS FOR MOISTURE
Any signs of drips or moisture on walls may signify a roof leak. This could be caused by an ice dam from freezing and thawing, for instance. Perpetual moisture problems may signify further damage.
FEEL FOR MOISTURE AROUND LIGHT FIXTURES
Feel for moist paint and drywall around all light fixtures and electrical outlets—it may signify a leaky roof.
LISTEN
The most evident sign of a roof leak is the sound of drip, drip, dripping inside your home.
SMELL THE AIR
A musty smell inside your house may be indicative of a seeping roof.
UNWELCOME GREEN GROWTH
Moss and mould growth on exterior walls are the unfortunate consequence of wetter climates. Although often discovered in shaded areas, it could be that downspouts and gutters are not working efficiently to direct water away from the roof. This results in propable leaks and erosion below gutters.
If you discover signs of a leaky roof, there is no need to panic, but it does require immediate attention. It could be a small and simple repair job, but in case it’s something bigger, it needs to be taken care of as soon as possible.
Our helpful staff at Shoreline Roofing and Exteriors is available to help you maintain a safe and durable roof for as long as achievable. Instead of doing it yourself, your small investment in a roof inspection, performed by professionals, will assist you in protecting your family home from potential leaky disasters.