Roof Leak On Main Level

Isolate areas when you run the hose.

Roof leak on main level.

Head to the attic with a flashlight the next time it rains and trace a wet trickle to its highest point to determine. Let s examine a few common causes of leaks so you can keep an eye on your roof. Determine if there is a roof leak. Other materials such as slate concrete tile or clay tile may not be so forgiving.

Normally rain runs right off the roof and into the gutters directing water away from the home. This means the expanse of shingles slate shakes whatever. Start low soaking the area just above where the leak appears in the house. If shingles get lifted or torn from high winds the damaged shingle exposes nails holding the shingle below it.

Roof nail leaks can happen when roof nails have been loosened slightly from high winds or have simply pulled out over time. For example soak the downhill side of a chimney first then each side then the top on both sides. These fixed points can be perpendicular exterior walls a fireplace chimney or other components that extend through the finished ceiling to the attic space or roof surface. Sometimes the sheer volume of rainfall leads to your sporadic roof leak.

Go into your attic and locate the source of the leak on the underside of the roof deck using the measurements taken from your home s living space. Dig out any cracked or dry caulking that isn t properly sealing adjoining surfaces and replace with silicone caulk. Examine roof flashings for gaps and check for cracks in the rubber boots on rooftop vents. If a leak is difficult to find enlist a helper and go up on the roof with a garden hose.

Make sure you keep the roof clear so water will spill over it fast. Look for discoloration on ceiling tiles or drywall. However during heavy rainfall your gutters might not be able to keep up. Check the cabinet.

Debris like leaves pine needles or twigs can trap water against the roof. If any of these issues are present water will be able to enter your roof along the pipe. Look for wet moist and rotting wood in crawl spaces around. Replace any missing or rotted siding above the step flashing on dormers.

These nails will eventually rust. If your roof is asphalt then you can walk around with ease. The water can seep into the roof. Often the rubber boot on the vent will be worn or torn the metal plastic base will have a crack or broken seam or a few nails will be loose or missing.

Recaulk the corner flashing if any areas have hardened caulk. If your roof is older it is possible that the leak is within the roof field. How to trace a leak in the ceiling 1.