As the weather in Minnesota starts to adjust to warmer temperatures, we see a lot of snowmelt happening. During this time, there is an endless cycle of snow melting off of our roofs and refreezing at night. This continuous period and the harsh winter can be very hard on your roof and cause damage. These damages may lead to leaks appearing in your home, but what else causes a leak?
What Can Cause My Roof To Leak?
Though there usually isn’t just one thing that always causes roofs to leak, your roof is often leaking due to improper installation. This can include your roof membrane, roof vents, or areas around your chimney. Improper installation can lead to problems down the road, which is why it is crucial to contact a professional.
Another possibility would be that your roof is too old, and the materials are no longer doing their job. Roofing materials go through a lot of different weather conditions year after year so it’s expected that these materials would deteriorate over time and cause leaks. Falling limbs from storms or exposure to the hot sun can cause any number of problems to your roof over time.
It’s also very important to make sure your gutters are cleaned out so water can always run through them. If not properly cleaned, that water can build and slowly leak through your roof and into the interior of your home. When there are any major weather conditions in the Twin Cities, inspect your roof for any damages or build-up that you may see to avoid leaks and further damage.
How Do I Check My Roof For Leaks?
When your roof is showing signs of a leak, it can sometimes be hard to determine where exactly the leak is coming from on your roof. The source is only sometimes exactly where the water appears inside, making repairing the leak all the more frustrating. If you are ever unsure, call a professional. These tips can guide you to find leaks before they cause too much damage to your home:
1. Start at the Source – Where the Stain Is
Though that might be different from where the leak is, the water stain is an excellent place to start. With a stain on your ceiling, the water collects in a single spot, so once you find the location, you can reverse your path to finding the source.
It’s important to remember that most types of insulation can hold a lot of water, so the spot might be soaked with water. You may have to wait until the ceiling or wall dry’s a bit before tracking the leak, to avoid more repairs and mess.
2. Check Your Attic
If the leak is coming from your roof, it’s necessary for you to inspect the underside of your attic. Look to see if there are any large spots of moisture, and have a flashlight handy to check for stains, deterioration, or other damages that may show signs of leaking.
It’s important to remember that not all leaks come from your roof and could be moisture from any piping throughout the house. The attic is a smart place to look as it is a direct source underneath your roof.
3. Inspect Your Roof
If you can’t uncover much from the interior of your home, it might be time to check the exterior. Inspect your roof with heavy caution and secure footing for any damages you may see. The roof could be missing, or damaged shingles, structural damages, or torn materials can be the reason for a leak. Inspect thoroughly to find the source, but please always ensure your safety and let someone know what you are doing before getting onto a roof.
4. Recreate Rainfall by Soaking Your Roof
Recreating rainfall is a handy tip for finding your leak, especially if you are sure it has to be some sort of exterior damage. It may not be possible to imitate rain in the winter, especially in Minnesota. This trick may have to wait until spring in Minneapolis. Grab a friend and garden hose, and let the water run across your roof.
To make things easier, take your time and do it in sections. For example, drape the hose over a specific area for a couple of minutes to ensure that the water soaks through while a friend goes inside to listen for drips or uncover puddles. Doing this in sections will help you find the source of where the roof is leaking.
5. Contact Roofing Experts
If your inspection fails or you don’t feel comfortable on your roof, call the experts to do it for you. At All Craftsmen Exteriors, we specialize in residential roofing. We offer objective inspections to help you understand the damage to your roof and the next steps for you.
We know how important your home is and we want you to have the best roofing experience possible. With a free estimate on all your roofing needs, contact us to get started today.
