Roof Leak On Main Level

Dig out any cracked or dry caulking that isn t properly sealing adjoining surfaces and replace with silicone caulk.

Roof leak on main level.

For example soak the downhill side of a chimney first then each side then the top on both sides. Head to the attic with a flashlight the next time it rains and trace a wet trickle to its highest point to determine. 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. Let s examine a few common causes of leaks so you can keep an eye on your roof.

These nails will eventually rust. Other materials such as slate concrete tile or clay tile may not be so forgiving. Check the cabinet. 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.

If your roof is older it is possible that the leak is within the roof field. If shingles get lifted or torn from high winds the damaged shingle exposes nails holding the shingle below it. Look for wet moist and rotting wood in crawl spaces around. Make sure you keep the roof clear so water will spill over it fast.

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. How to trace a leak in the ceiling 1. However during heavy rainfall your gutters might not be able to keep up. Debris like leaves pine needles or twigs can trap water against the roof.

Recaulk the corner flashing if any areas have hardened caulk. This means the expanse of shingles slate shakes whatever. Start low soaking the area just above where the leak appears in the house. Replace any missing or rotted siding above the step flashing on dormers.

A plumbing vent pipe is a common culprit for leaks. The water can seep into the roof. Determine if there is a roof leak. If a leak is difficult to find enlist a helper and go up on the roof with a garden hose.

Look for discoloration on ceiling tiles or drywall. Normally rain runs right off the roof and into the gutters directing water away from the home. If any of these issues are present water will be able to enter your roof along the pipe. Examine roof flashings for gaps and check for cracks in the rubber boots on rooftop vents.

Isolate areas when you run the hose. If your roof is asphalt then you can walk around with ease. Sometimes the sheer volume of rainfall leads to your sporadic roof leak.