Gig Harbor, Washington receives around 46 inches of rain every year -; nearly 10 inches above the national average. Naturally, roofers in the area have quite a bit of experience finding and fixing damaged roofs. Here are three tips from roofers in Gig Harbor that will help homeowners find a leaky roof.
Head up to the attic: If the home has an attic, head up there on a rainy day when water is actively leaking. Bring a flashlight and shine it around areas where a leak is suspected. Light will reflect off of water, so a flashlight is essential for this job. Once the leak is found, mark it and when the rain has cleared up and the roof has dried, go examine the exterior damage to see what kind of work needs to be done.
Spot the leak with a water hose
Don’t want to wait for rain? Take some advice from the professionals and pick up a garden hose. Running a garden hose just above where the leak appears in the home will help locate the area where the water is coming from. Have a friend head inside and keep an eye out for water. If the leak still cannot be found, pull up a few shingles in any areas where damage is suspected. There will be evidence of a leak, including mold, dark stains, discolored felt, or rotting wood. Once the area has been identified, enlist the help of Roofers in Gig Harbor to repair the roof.
Look for damage around roof vents or plumbing vent boots: When the roof itself seems damage-free but water is still coming in the house, there could be damage around roof vents or plumbing vent boots. Look for broken rubber seals, gaps around the joints, rust damage, or holes in the metal. If there are any signs of damage, the boot or vent might need to be replaced. Galvanized steel flashing can be used over the joints to prevent water from coming in and causing damage. If the roof is high or steep, it’s best to leave it to professional Roofers in Gig Harbor.
A leaky roof is more than just a nuisance -; it can cause serious structural damage to a home if not rectified. Use these tips from the experts to find where the leak is coming from. After all, knowing how to find a leaky roof is the first step in repairing it.
