How Do You Know if You Have a Roof Leak?

With proper installation and maintenance, residential roofing systems can perform more efficiently and last longer. Make sure to address roofing issues immediately before they turn into costly repairs, especially leaks. Once your roof leaks, other areas of your home and belongings will be at risk of water damage. They can also contribute to mold and mildew growth and compromise your indoor air quality. 

Here are signs to look for to know if your roof has leaks. 

Water Stains on Your Ceiling and Walls

Check your ceilings and walls for dark spots or water stains. If you see them, it’s very like that your roof is leaking, and you’ll need to contact professionals for an inspection. Experienced residential roofing contractors know how to properly locate a leak, which can sometimes even be more challenging than the repair. 

Deal with leaks immediately because they can contribute to the early deterioration of roofs. Small leaks, when ignored even for a short time, can lead to costly issues like rot in the sheathing and framing, ruined insulation, mold and ceiling damage. 

Plumbing Vent Boot Damage

Typically made from plastic and metal or two-piece metal units, plumbing vent boots conceal pipes sticking out from your roof. The plastic bases of this component can experience cracks while metal bases can suffer from broken seams. Damage in plumbing vent boots can lead to roof leaks, so they must be replaced if necessary. However, if there are simply missing or loose nails on the base of the boot and the component is still in good condition, it may not need replacement. All your roofer may need to do is to place new screws or nails to secure the boot. 

Shingle Damage

Compromised shingles are eventually bound to cause leaks. Routine inspections and maintenance can help you detect shingle damage while they are small. Hire professionals for inspections after an extreme weather event hits your area. Sometimes, signs of storm damage are not apparent until water starts leaking indoors. Working with a reliable contractor can help with the longevity and lifespan of your roof. Whether you need a roof repair or gutter installation service, you can count on Northeast Gutters and Remodeling’s dependable team. 

Shiners

A shiner refers to a nail that missed the framing member, and you may be able to see them if you inspect your attic when it’s cold or snowing outside. These nails usually appear white since they are frosted. As the heat from your living spaces rises into the attic, the frost on the nails melt, and the water drips onto your ceiling, causing stains. The best way to deal with this issue is to clip the nail using side-cutting pliers.

Filthy or Clogged Soffits

Sufficient attic ventilation is essential to the efficiency of your roof and good indoor air quality. Ventilation is possible through the soffits, which bring fresh air into the attic to maintain moderate temperatures. The air that enters the soffit normally passes through an opening along the underside of the roof into the attic. Rafter spaces have plastic air chutes to ensure air flows freely between the rafters and sheathing. With clear soffits, you can prevent moisture accumulation and mold growth on the framing of the roof. 

Rust in Your Gutter System

Gutters divert rainwater at a safe distance from your home to prevent water damage on your home’s exterior, basement and landscaping. For this component to work effectively, you should keep it clean and clog-free. Proper gutter installation and maintenance will go a long way in prolonging the life of your roof. 

Neglected gutters can cause water to overflow onto your siding and back up to the roof, causing damage over time. They are also likely to accumulate moisture that can contribute to rusty spots on the system. Rust and seams due to thermal expansion and contraction will eventually cause gutters to leak. You can avoid this issue from affecting your roof as well by hiring an experienced professional to fix your gutters. 

Mold Growth on the Area Where the Roof and Exterior Wall Meet

There must be a kick-out flashing in areas where a roof edge meets a sidewall. This roofing component prevents runoff from running down the exterior wall. Without it, water can penetrate your doors and waters, and even seep behind the trim. This issue can be left unnoticed for years until rot starts to develop and damage the sheathing and framing of the roof. Fortunately, regular roof inspections can easily detect this issue before it turns into a major expense. 

Stains Around a Bathroom Fan

Have you noticed water stains around your bath fan? It can mean there is a leak arising from the roof’s vent cap, but condensation is more likely to cause this issue. Moist air can condense inside the duct if the bath fan lacks insulation.

Rust in Chimney Flashing

Chimney flashing can encounter different issues – one reason maintenance is essential. Flashing made of galvanized steel can rust. If this is the case, your roof may need to replace it to stop leaks. 

The Presence of Ice Dams

Leaks can also occur due to ice dams. These ice formations occur due to the constant melting and refreezing of snow on the warmer areas of the roof. When not addressed, they can cause water to back up under your shingles. They can loosen shingles and cause water to leak into your living spaces. Leaks in your home can result in warped flooring, sagging ceilings and peeling paint. It can also make your attic insulation soggy and prone to mold and mildew. 

You can easily avoid these issues by taking proper care of your roof. At Northeast Gutters and Remodeling, you can rely on us for superior residential commercial roofing services. Our highly skilled and trained team also specializes in gutter, drywall, trim and siding installation. Call us at (860) 899-7878, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate. For all your roof repair and siding installation needs, Northeast Gutters and Remodeling is always ready to help.