Roof leaks are a common problem and when leaks occur, they can be very destructive. Roofing leaks cause stain and discoloration of the ceiling. Moreover, when water leaks through the roof, it can damage valuable property inside as well as the structure itself. Roof leaks can significantly lower the value of buildings. In Kearney, Missouri a roofing contractor can help identify where the leak originated as well as complete needed repairs. Or perhaps you wish to determine the leak site yourself; in that case you could do the following:
• Roof Flooding Test
• Roof Flashing Installation
• Roof Repairs
Roof Flooding Test
When you notice some water stains on your ceiling, you should first suspect chimney and other joints. Examine the points where chimney and roof intersect. You should also inspect the points where different planes meet. If you notice any spaces, they may be the source of a leak. One of the most efficient ways of detecting the leaking hole is the flooding test.
The flooding test begins with watering the roof. You can wet the roof using a bucket or a garden hose. The roof should be watered to saturation. When the roof is saturated, it should begin leaking. If you follow the path keenly, you will identify the source of the leak. You should repeat the flooding test on the entire roof to identify all areas that may be leaking.
Roof Flashing Installation
The potential dangers of leaking roofs imply that you should make an effort to have a seamless roof. Furthermore, when you detect a roof leak, you should act fast to fix it. Several factors cause roof leaks in Kearney, Missouri. The most common cause is unsealed vents. When a chimney cuts through the roof, gaps are created between the roofing sheaths and the chimney. Such gaps should have appropriate flashing/sealant installed. Other causes of roofing leaks include loosely attached nails, damaged flashing and broken or rotten sheaths.
Roof Repair
After identifying the leaks, it is now time to fix the roof. The method to use will depend on size of the cracks and the type of roof. The best materials to use are metal and polyethylene sheets. Lift the damaged shingle, and place the sheets under it. After fixing, you should flood the roof to test whether the leaking persists. If a loosely attached nail is the source of the leak, detach it, and replace it with a wider nail. If the cracks are widespread, replacing the entire roof is the best solution. Fixing a leaking roof is not an easy task. Furthermore, working on the rooftop can be risky. It requires specialized equipment and personnel.