The last thing anyone wants to see in the middle of a rain storm is water coming in from a leak in the roof. 
Since water rarely follows a straight path into a structure, chances are the leak has originated in an area apart from where it is leaking. That entire path may be damaged, although most of the damage is usually at the site where the water is noticed. It does not take much to saturate a ceiling or drywall enough for it to leak; unfortunately, the leak will have to be found and then it will need repairing along with the roof.
- Location – The fastest and easiest way to find a leak takes two people as long as the roof is reachable by a ladder. One person need to hose down sections of the roof with a garden hose while the second person monitors insider for signs of leakage. By slowly moving across the surface, it is possible to find the damaged area.
- Damage Extent – Once the source of leaking is found, it can be determined whether it an be fixed by resealing or replacing a few shingles or if the damage is more extensive and a contractor should be called. If it has been there a while, there may be considerable damage to the entire roof as well as the attic, which would definitely be an indication for the need of a professional.
- Prevention – It is easy to prevent leaks from occurring in the first place with routine roof maintenance. Prevention is the best course of action in keeping the building top watertight. Typical asphalt shingles last about twenty years, depending on the quality of the installation, the material and the climate; however, even that is not a guarantee. What many people fail to realize is that this structure must be cared for on a regular basis.
- Areas of Concern – The primary areas to watch for leaks include roof protrusions such as pipes, vents, chimneys or even skylights. When a roof is installed, these areas are sealed with cement which does not last forever. Weather changes eventually cause an otherwise flexible sealant to dry out and need resealing every few years. Brick chimneys are generally coated with cement and need periodic re-coating, as the layers of cement dry and crack over the years, allowing water to seep through the bricks. The condition of shingles or tiles should be inspected every few years since curling or cracking can also allow water to enter.
- Ventilation System – Another important part of the house is the ventilation system. Every home should have some sort of air intake and outlet. Depending upon location, this is a potential source for water entry. A lack of proper ventilation can also cause leaks due to condensation and not allowing an attic to stay dry. That water can also eventually cause damage to the house as well.
There is much more involved in a roof inspection than simply looking to see if anything obvious can be detected. The majority of leaks are not visible to the naked eye and will take some detective work to find. Many repairs require a knowledgeable contractor to properly repair. Of course, the best means to keep water from leaking into a house is not to let it happen in the first place with diligent, routine maintenance!
Call Schulte Roofing and Find Outstanding Experts To Care For Your Roof Houston!
Do you want an reliable roof Houston company to handle your roofing needs? Greater Houston area customers can call Schulte Roofing at 800-367-7663 and let them take care of all of your roofing needs!