Roof Leak Detection in Citrus Heights CA

Leaking roof got you worried? Consult with the professionals at Citrus Heights Roofing Solutions for leak detection. We have a crew of trained experts who can narrow down where that pesky leak may be coming from. Not all roof leaks require a new roof, so do not hesitate to get the leak fixed. The sooner you can identify it the more you can mitigate the damage to your home. Call us today!

Roof Inspection Services Citrus Heights, CA

Water is always looking for the path of least resistance whether it is down your roof and into the gutter or under your shingles into your home. There are a number of issues that can cause your roof to leak. Below we will outline the possible causes and a few quick steps to fix it. If climbing on the roof is not your idea of a good Saturday afternoon then call the experts and we will do a full roof assessment.

6 Causes of a Leaking Roof

Broken Shingles:
This is one of the easier leak issues to detect because the shingles are the top layer of the roof. You will want to do a visual inspection from the ground to see if there are any missing shingles or discolorations on your roof. After a storm you can also see if any shingles are littering your yard.

How to fix it:
Use a pry bar to get under the nails attached to the damaged shingle. There are typically 4 nails that will need to be removed. Once you have removed it you will replace the shingle and add 4 more nails.
Improperly Sealed Valleys:
This is the area of the roof where two different planes come together. Since it becomes a collection area for water it is crucial that they are sealed properly. You can detect a leak by searching for wet spots in the valley of the roof.

How to fix it:
This is a task that we recommend you leave the the professionals. It can become complex and needs to be done correctly. A professional will likely lay a new leak barrier down the valley of the roof.
A Cracked Vent Boot:
A roof vent is the small pipes sticking out of your roof. Their purpose is to expel excess moisture from the inside of the house. This is a place we will start with leak detection. If they are compromised it can leave a musty smell or discoloration around the vent.

How to fix it:
You will use a knife to cut the rubber and remove it from around the vent. Then you will use a pry bar to break the seal from the connecting shingles. Take the new rubber and slide it on under the shingles, over the vent and then bring the rubber down onto the roof. Then, you will secure the new boot with roofing nails on both sides and caulk under the shingles to seal them to the new flashing you have installed. Pro tip: buy a few extra shingles for this process.
Your Skylights were not installed correctly:
If you are noticing drops of water coming from your skylight then you know what the culprit is. If there are wet spots near the skylight then it could be a flashing issue you are facing instead.
How to fix it:
Remove all debris that may be covering the skylight and check it for cracks. If you find any use a clear silicon to seal the length of the damage. Then check around the skylight for issues with the flashing. Replace flashing as necessary.
You have a cracked chimney:
Over time houses can shift and cause damage to your roof or chimney. When the chimney cracks is opens up a pathway for water to enter your home and wreak havoc. The movement of the house and cause gaps to form in the mortar or the flashing to become detached from the chimney.

How to fix it:
You can use new mortar to fill in an cracks or crevasses. If this does not fix the leak then we recommend a professional roof inspection.
Your flashing has cracked:
Flashing are the thin pieces of metal installed under your shingles or on top of joints to get the best seal for your roof. They can be exposed or covered by a rubber like seal. Roofers have used tar to seal the metal but over time it can erode.

How to fix it:
You will want to remove the old flashing by prying up the nails. Also remove any shingles covering the flashing. Replace the flashing and use a sealant where you place the nails. You should have your roof regularly inspected for cracks in your flashing.
As I mentioned before water will always take the path of least resistance. So having a roof that is fortified and properly installed is crucial in the longevity. Some roofers will cut corners and you will not be the wiser until that first storm of the year. Citrus Heights Roofing Solutions provides a superior product that will withstand the test of time (and rain). We pride ourselves in our workmanship and our customers notice the difference. Call us today to schedule a roof leak detection appointment.