How to Find Roof Leaks
When you’re trying to track down a leak, start by looking at the roof uphill from the stains.
- Check for ceiling stains, damaged shingles, loose granules, blistering or peeling paint and cracked vent pipes.
- Look for any roof penetrations. Items penetrating the roof are the most common source of leaks. Penetrations may include plumbing and roof vents, chimneys, dormers or anything else that projects through the roof. If you have attic access, the easiest way to track down a leak is with a flashlight, shine the light around the attic ceiling to look for the evidence. There will be water stains, black marks or mold. If access is a problem or you have a vaulted ceiling, you’ll have to go up onto the roof and examine for leaks.
- Another key sign of a failing roof is excessive energy bills. Insufficient attic ventilation may cause moisture in the attic to become trapped and condense on the rafters.
