My Roof is Leaking, Help! What do I do?

Let’s face it: A roof can start to leak at any moment. There’s nothing more frustrating for a homeowner in Miami than having a leak and not being able to identify its cause. One small drip can symbolize a larger problem – and every homeowner knows that means time and money.

That’s why it’s important to regularly inspect for roof leaks and fix them before they become a major problem. By understanding the warning signs of a leaky roof, you’ll be able to pinpoint the general area of the leak.

Here’s what you need to know about roof leaks and the appropriate course of action to take when repairing your leaking roof in Miami.

How to Locate the Source of a Roof Leak
When you are trying to track down the cause of your roof leak, it’s essential to consider a few things. When you find water stains in your home, remember that the water gets diverted once it permeates the roof and seeps through the ceiling. The water can flow through many areas in your home such as the insulation, the interiors of your walls, and the beams in your ceiling. This means that you can’t just follow the water stains and expect to find the source of the problem.

An effective way to begin to track the source of the leak is to get into the attic with a flashlight. Begin by inspecting for water stains, black spots, and mold as these will likely be located near your leaking roof. If you’re unable to get up into the attic, you can proceed with the water hose method and run water in the different sections of your roof at a time. Be sure to have a partner inside searching for a leak.

As you review the roof remember that any opening in the roof system is an opportunity for water to enter your home. If the roofing materials show any openings where water can enter your home’s building, this will result in a roof leak.

What are the Signs of a Roof Leak?
The most apparent sign of a roof leak in Miami is the dripping of water during or after a rain storm. However, there are plenty of cases where moisture has been penetrating overtime. Look out for these common signs that indicate your roof has a leak.

Flashing is Cracked

Discerning the issue: Flashing are sheets of metal that are installed at roof transitions such as where the roof meets a wall. Broken flashing can be easily identified because they typically feature large cracks.

Discerning the cause: Roofing materials, especially asphalt begin to degrade over time. Expansion and contraction with the change in temperatures cause aging roof protection to grow brittle and crack. Years of the harsh Miami sun rays can also melt the tar, exposing portions of your flashing.

The Attic Ventilation is Cracked

Discerning the issue: Roof vents look like small domes or pipes sticking out of your roof. They are typically used to release hot air from your attic. You can identify if there is a leak by inspecting for musty odors or dark spots in your roof or attic.

Discerning the cause: The vents are often sealed with flashing cement around the opening and covered by a tight rubber boot. As time progresses, the rubber sealing can corrode and crack, causing the roof to leak.

The Valleys are not Sealed Properly

Discerning the issue: A valley is the point in which two different planes of your roof meet. These areas are primarily sloped, which makes it easy for rainwater to slip inside if it is not sealed properly. To identify leaks, look for debris or vegetation clogging the valley.

Discerning the cause: There are many factors that can be responsible for a leak in this area. Improper sealing when your roof was installed is the most common reason. Severe weather conditions and exposure to the Miami sun can also cause the sealing to decline over time especially when the valley is clogged.

The Roof and Gutters are Clogged

Discerning the issue: A clogged gutter can be detected when water pours over the side rather than following its designated path. Additionally, you can also inspect for choked downspouts.

Discerning the cause: Accumulated water on the roof above the flashing may cause a leak. Large trees can also be the culprit, so be sure to trim your trees or regularly clean your gutters.

The Chimney is Cracked

Discerning the issue: You can typically search for signs of wear and tear along the roof or chimney. Damaged shingles and dark spots can occur where the chimney is leaking.

Discerning the cause: The weather is typically the cause for a cracked chimney. Too much exposure to the Miami sun and rain can lead to cracks and leaks.

There are Missing or Broken Tiles

Discerning the issue: By regularly looking at your roof for large changes in color and missing tiles you can identify this issue easily. Usually, a broken tile will appear as a slightly off color or lighter spot on your roof.

Discerning the cause: Severe weather storms is one of the leading causes because it can crack and break tiles off your roof.

You may be eager to stop a roof from leaking, but don’t risk serious injury trying to inspect or repair it. Unless you are experienced, hire a professional roofer for this work. Our trained staff at T&S Roofing Systems is especially equipped to evaluate any potential issues you may be having with your roof in Miami.