It may seem really obvious that the way to detect a leaky roof is that it’s leaking all over the place. But, when a roof is leaking to that degree, it’s already too late. For the most effective leak prevention, you need to find the leaky spot before it starts.
Here are some ideas on how to do this without risking life and limb on a roof top.
– Check your attic.
It may be dusty up there, but your attic is a great place to check for leaks while it’s raining. If you go into your attic twice a year at least and take a look at the ceiling, all around your chimney, and around any other openings, you will be able to see water seepage. If it’s not quite dripping, put your hand on anything that you think may be wet – indicating an imminent problem.
– Look for effervescence.
When brick or stone experiences water seepage, there is a white film on it called effervescence. Keep an eye out for this on your chimney – both indoors and anywhere it is visible close to the roof.
– Examine your eaves.
It doesn’t seem like eaves would be an issue – even if they are rotted out. But, dry rot is a fungus and will keep spreading through your roof, infecting healthy wood, unless it’s stopped.
– Break out the binoculars.
Try looking at your roof from the ground with binoculars or with a camera that has a zoom capability. If you see a missing shingle, oddly bent flashing, or a hole or some sort, you are likely going to have a problem very soon.
– Keep your roof and gutters clean.
It’really hard to see through dirt, moss, leaves, and dead branches. You cannot visually examine your roof easily if it’s dirty. Also, that dirt pile up will start to decay your roofing materials.
If you detect a leak in your roof, be sure to contact your local roofer and get an appointment for an inspection as soon as possible. Most roofers give free inspections and estimates.