A roofing leak isn't always an easy mystery to solve. While mold growth or brown water stains on the ceiling are common signs you have a leak, water will often travel a significant distance after it penetrates the roof. This can make it harder to discover the exact origin point. Luckily, there are some steps you can follow to pinpoint the site of the leak.

How to Figure Out Where Your Roof Is Leaking

1. Inspect the Roof From Outside

Leaks will often occur after a storm blows shingles off or a limb falls on the roof. You can sometimes spot this damage from ground level, particularly on a single-story house. 

In addition to checking for missing shingles, look for asphalt granule deposits in your downspouts, as these indicate damage that may be allowing water to get through the roofing material. For a closer inspection, hire a roofer to go up on the roof to safely inspect for damage.

2. Check the Underside of the Roof

Go up in the attic and use a flashlight to check the roof from inside. Look for areas that are darker than the rest of the roof or where light is peeking through from above. Moist or moldy spots are also a sure sign of a leak. If your attic isn't finished, be careful to avoid falling between the ceiling joists.

3. Dig Deep Into Damaged Insulation

If the attic ceiling is covered by insulation, some extra work may be needed to track the leak. Water can deteriorate insulation as it travels across the underside of the roof, so you'll need to pull out the damaged portions. Removing the damaged insulation will allow you to follow the trail of the water until you find where it's getting in.
 

For roofing repairs, installation, and more, choose Custom Roofing & Construction. Serving the Dothan, AL, area since 1994, these experienced roofing contractors guarantee quality results on each project, backing all installations with a 10-year warranty. To learn more about their services or to request a free estimate, visit them online or call (334) 790-4418.