How to Find a Roof Leak

Water-damaged ceiling

No one likes to see water dripping from their roof, but luckily, learning how to find and repair a roof leak is a manageable task. Knowing the causes of roof leaks can help you stay ahead of your roof’s performance, even if your roof only leaks sometimes. Learn the tricks to keep your home safe and dry with The BrickKicker! 

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What are the Causes of Roof Leaks? 

While there are many issues that can affect the performance of your roof, the most common causes of roof leaks are: 

  • – Weather: Outside of the usual rain and snow, violent winds, hail, and storms can create serious damage to your roof. Severe shifts in temperature can also cause roof membranes to expand and crack if not properly installed. 
  • – Seams: Your roof’s most vulnerable points are at the seams where membranes are overlapped and joined. Water can seep in between the flashing and get through to your home. 
  • – Rooftop equipment: Anything attached to your roof can cause damage if it becomes loose, so keeping an eye on satellite dishes or HVAC components is key. 
  • – Neglect: Failure to maintain your roof during your seasonal home maintenance can cause it to fall into disrepair. It’s especially important to make sure that gutters are cleared out on a regular basis. 
  • – People: Your roof can handle minimal foot traffic, but dropped tools and tipped over components can definitely take a toll.

Why Does My Roof Leak Only Sometimes? 

If you find that your roof only leaks sometimes, it’s probably due to an ice dam. Ice dams occur when too much snow or ice accumulates on one area of your roof and doesn’t have anywhere to go. It’s important to ensure your gutters are clear and are the appropriate size for your home before winter comes. If you’ve made a mistake, you may find water coming in through your roof or walls instead of down the drains. 

How to Find and Repair a Roof Leak 

Roof leaks drip down from your ceiling or walls, potentially creating yellow staining if the water itself doesn’t completely come through the drywall. Although the water may enter your home from a certain location, that doesn’t mean the leak is directly above the drip.

So how do you find a roof leak? If you have attic access, use a flashlight to see if you can visibly spot the water’s entrance. Look for signs of mold or staining. Otherwise, going up on your roof will be the best bet. Leaks typically don’t happen in the large, uninterrupted sections of your roof, and are more likely to occur around equipment or any penetrations. Examine for points of entry around your: 

  • – Chimney
  • – Dormers
  • – Plumbing
  • – Roof vents
  • – Gutters

Once you find the source, that will determine the steps for how to repair your roof leak. While some repairs may be as simple as securing loose shingles or flashing, others may involve more advanced handiwork. Because your roof is such an important part of your home, The BrickKicker recommends seeking out professional roof service for major repairs. 

The BrickKicker Can Help You Find a Roof Leak

If you’re worried about a roof leak, it’s crucial to have it looked at right away. Contact us for quick, reliable home inspections you can depend on!