Not all roof leaks are immediately obvious. Sometimes, homeowners discover the problem after water has seeped through ceilings and into the living space. Inspecting your attic could be instrumental in preventing major problems, particularly if you catch a leak before the water damage spreads. Here are a few ways to detect roofing leaks in the attic.

How to Detect Roof Leaks in the Attic

1. Look for the Sunlight

For best results, head to the attic when it’s bright outside. Turn off the lights and wait a moment for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Then take a look above. Do you see any sunlight filtering through the attic ceiling? Those small openings are just large enough to invite rain to seep into the home. Moisture intrusion can lead to extensive interior damage and potential mold and mildew, which can cause a host of health concerns.

2. Check for Wood Damage

You may not be able to spot a small roofing leak right away. You’ll need to inspect the wood for signs of structural damage to determine if moisture is present. Make sure that you have a flashlight if there’s no light; look for dark spots, discoloration, splintered wood, sagging areas, or chipping, all of which may indicate that water has seeped into the material and caused damage. It’s best to conduct this inspection right after it rains, so you can easily find new moisture.

3. Assess the Air Quality

Does the space smell musty or moldy? It could be that your attic isn’t properly ventilated, which means that air circulation is poor. Because heat rises throughout the house, the attic remains consistently hot year-round. The resulting humidity could weaken the wood inside and cause it to rot or break, which could invite moisture into the space. Your roofing professional can assess your existing ventilation and insulation to determine if a better combination of materials would improve conditions and prevent rising humidity levels.

If you’re seeking a trustworthy roofing professional to resolve a leak, turn to the experts at Highmark Exteriors in Savage, MN. Proudly serving homeowners in the Twin Cities area, the company provides a wide range of services, including home exterior repairs, storm damage resolutions, and window and gutter solutions. Visit them online to find out how they can help you, and call (952) 882-8904 to request a quote.