How to Find a Leak on a Flat Roof: Insights from a Roofing and Tuckpointing Contractor in Lincoln Square, Chicago
A leaky roof is something you will want to deal with immediately. Not only can it cause structural issues, but mold growth as well. Unlike traditional sloped roofs, flat roofs are more prone to leaks. This is because water is more likely to pool in certain spots on a flat roof, whereas it simply rolls off a sloped roof.
Are you dealing with a leak in your flat roof? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Below, this roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Lincoln Square, Chicago is going to review some of the methods you can use to find a leak on a flat roof.
If the temperature is cold, search at night.
When searching for a leak on a flat roof when the outdoor temperatures are low, you might be able to identify it by looking at night. This is because the area where the leak is located will release heat that has been stored inside the attic during the day, and the steam will make it easier to identity.
From the outside wall of a room, identify the damp spots or dripping areas along the ceiling.
As any reputable roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Lincoln Square, Chicago knows, you can identify the cause of the leak by going to the roof and inspecting the areas near the leak. For example, a metal flashing may have become loose due to heat expansion, and it may simply require a repair or replacement. Also, check for loosened tar and materials that may have gaps in which water has access.
If the leak is located somewhere near a gutter, your local roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Lincoln Square, Chicago will look for small areas of damage by removing leaves, pinecones, and other debris from the gutter. They will also check the seams in the roofing material — any gap or hole might be the culprit behind the leaking roof.
Dark brown patches of moisture can develop in your Lincoln Square, Chicago home and can be early indicators of roof damage. The patches are caused by water on the damaged flat roof seeping slowly through. It is important to identify the cause of these as well.
Use the water technique
If you’re still unable to find the leak in your roof, your local Lincoln Square roofing and tuckpointing contractor may use the water technique. Using a hose, they will manually drench the roof in small sections while another person checks the inner area of the ceiling. Remember that water takes a fluid pathway to get to where the dripping and the damp patches are, so do not assume the leak will be directly above it.
This process is time-consuming, and the more well ordered it is executed, the more accurate will be the result. This will help you determine the exact location of the damage on the flat roof.
How to repair a flat roof leak
First, the flat roof must be clear of debris. This ensures that there won’t be more damage that needs repairing in your Lincoln Square, Chicago home.
Before washing the area that needs repair work, ensure that safety procedures have been put in place. Wear protective clothing if possible, and when utilizing a hose or pressure washer, do not leave them where they could be tripped over.
Looking for the Premier Roofing and Tuckpointing Contractor in Lincoln Square, Chicago?
While it is possible to identify the source of the leak on a flat roof, it is often dangerous and difficult. As such, this is a job that’s best left to the professionals.
Do you need to have your roof repaired? If so, and if you’re looking to partner with the premier roofing and tuckpointing contractor in Lincoln Square, Chicago, look no further than the experts at Expert Super Seal Roofing & Tuckpointing. Contact us today at (773) 501-5758 to request a free estimate.
