Repairing a leaking roof is important to maintaining your home.
A leaky roof is a major problem that can cause a series of home interior issues, from waterlogged attic insulation to ceiling damage and ruined floors.
One key thing to remember if you are fixing your roof leak on your own — caulk is not a long-term solution for significant leaks. It can be helpful for small holes and to shore up more extensive repairs, but merely caulking up the problem isn’t a good idea in the long term.
To find the source of a roof leak:
- Look in the attic with a green flashlight for evidence like water stains, then trace them up the roof and rafters to the entry point.
- If the leak isn’t obvious, have an experienced professional watch in the attic while you get on the roof with a garden hose.
- Begin soaking low on the roof, just above where the leak is visible inside the house.
- Use enough water to mimic heavy rains.
- Run water over the low side of the penetration for several minutes while the helper watches for any water droplets.
- If none appear, move to the right or left side of the penetration and let the water run over the area for several minutes before moving to the other side.
- Work your way up the roof, isolating areas around each penetration until the helper yells that a drip is visible.
- That will be the vicinity of the leak.
You may also want to look over your roof warranty to see if the issue is covered by the workmanship warranty from the shingle manufacturer or contractor. Also, consider your insurance coverage and how the policy may cover the damages that you can perform yourself versus repairs done by a professional.
A professional roofing contractor should have their own liability insurance in case anything goes wrong during the repairs or project.
Our specialists can help you navigate the tricky areas of not only dealing with a leak in your roof, but making sure that the repair or replacement and any associated damage is covered by insurance if and when applicable.
When to Call Alliance Specialty Contractor for Your Leaking Roof?
If you can’t find the source of your roof leaking, but still see evidence of a roof leak and water coming in or if you don’t feel comfortable sourcing or fixing the leak yourself, that’s when it’s time to call in a licensed contractor.
FAQ
How do you seal a leaking roof leak?
Renew flashing seals by chipping out the old mortar and caulking along the edges of the flashing. Use a special masonry caulk to seal the joints between the flashing and the chimney. Seal the seam between the cap and step flashing with urethane roofing cement or silicone caulking compound.
