If your roof or ceiling is leaking but you cannot figure out where the leak is coming from, this article will help you figure out how to check for cracks in your ceiling and roof.
Checking for Cracks in a Flat or Low-Slope Roof
– Check to see if any roof drains in the area around the leak are plugged or draining slowly. Drains are usually designed so that water can only flow down, so if they are plugged, they are unlikely to be waterproof.
– Check any seams in the area around the leak. Run a flat blade along the lap, if it slides in two inches or more, then there is a good chance that the leak is coming from the seam.
– Check for visible issues such as holes in metal flashings, shrunken pitch pan fillers, decaying caulking, and curled flashing flanges sticking up through the roof membrane.
– Check all blisters to see if they have been cut.
– Check that expansion joint seams are working correctly.
– Keeping your feet close together, walk around the leaking area, taking small steps in every direction and see if the roof comes apart between your feet. If it does, then there is a split in your roof.
– Look under any debris, especially if it has been on your roof for a long time.
– If you cannot find a problem with your roof, check the ceiling in your attic.
Checking for Cracks in Steep-Slope Roofs
– Check for holes and damage around the leak area.
– Check for exposed nails that make rusted leaving hole. These are called “shiners.”
– Check for mortar damage on chimneys.
– If you have stucco, check for cracks in the stucco.
– Check your gutter and see if it full of debris. If water is backing up, it may be going through the inside of your wall.
– If you cannot find a problem with your roof, check the ceiling in your attic.
If you are still unable to find the cause of your leak after reading this article, you may need to contact a roof repair professional. With the help of TalkLocal, you can be on the phone within minutes with up to three high quality roof repair professionals in your area that are available when you are.
