If a roof is leaking water into the interior of a home, steps will need to be taken right away to stop this action from occurring. Most people will call a professional service to tend to Roof Repair in Gig Harbor if leaking is a problem. Some tasks however, can be done by the homeowner in an attempt to get water to remain out of the structure. Here are some locations to check when leaking is happening.
Look At The Ceiling In The Attic
Going into the attic of the home to look at the ceiling can be beneficial in tracking down an approximate location where water is making its way into the home. Black streaks on wood planks or beams will mean the saturation has been occurring in this area. The roof can then be checked from the exterior to search for a spot where shingles or flashing is no longer intact.
Take A Garden Hose On The Roof
To find the spot where water is getting inside of a home, a garden hose can be used as a testing device. One person can get on the roof with a hose and allow water to run for several minutes on top of the shingles. They can move the hose to a new spot if no water gets into the home. Another person can remain in the home to look at the ceiling where leaking had happened before. When water drips inside, the approximate area will have been located.
Check Over Shingles, Flashing, And Caulk
The shingles should be evaluated to make sure none have peeled away from the rooftop. If there is a shingle that is not in place as it should be, it can be reapplied by using nails to keep it secure. Rusted flashing or crumbling caulk will also need to be replaced to help to keep moisture on the exterior of the home. It is best to pay special attention to the areas around the chimney, skylights, or vents as these areas will have the edges of shingles pressed against them. These areas are prone to leaking and can be resealed to keep moisture from becoming a problem. A professional that does Roof Repair in Gig Harbor can be called if moisture continues to get in the home if necessary.
