How To Detect Flat Roof Leaks

If a leak is difficult to find enlist a helper and go up on the roof with a garden hose.

How to detect flat roof leaks.

Go inside and have a look to see whether water is. To check for sure you can use these tips. Typically there are two layers of flashing. Examine the collars around.

Steps in tracking down a flat or low slope roof leak careful visual inspection of the roof surface above for possible leak points such as any anomaly in the roof surface. Ridge cap flashing gaskets around pipes. For example soak the downhill side of a chimney first then each side then the top on both sides. Look in the attic with a flashlight for evidence like water stains trhen trace them up the roof and rafters to the entry point.

Clear any debris from the roof. If you have a flat roof that leaks get up on it when it is dry and cool. If the leak isn t obvious have a helper watch in the attic while you get on the roof with a garden hose. Begin soaking low on the roof just above where the leak is visible inside the house.

It s a given that in order to find a leak or two in your home water must flow over the spot where it can enter. Most noticeable to the eye are leaks caused by an object for example an errant nail that s managed. I always start at flashings. Careful inspection of the roof drainage system for blockages or drain leaks into the building see flat roof drainage.

Start low soaking the area just above where the leak appears in the house. Leaks involving your plumbing are easier to detect than roof leaks since water continuously flows. Flashings are transitional roofing materials. When a roof leaks moisture penetrates through the surface of the roof system and begins to saturate the underlayment or decking for the roof system.

Roof leaks on the other hand will only make their presence known when it rains or when snow on the roof begins to melt. Walk around the roof looking at the metal flashing. If you don t have an attic or just can t find the source of the leak you can check several places for problems with moisture or damage. Look for places where tree branches may have gouged or torn the roofing material.

How to find a flat roof leak 1. Isolate areas when you run the hose. The inner layer or. Inspect the underside of the roof for objects that have pierced it or have been attached to it.

Boots the rubber seals that are around the electric service and plumbing vent pipes air vents and exhaust fan. You want to look for trouble spots that generally are the primary source of leaks.