Leaks don’t always start where they appear to. Special methods are used to locate the exact source of leaks before too much damage is done.
Tracing Damp Patches Inward
Roofers follow moisture down into the roof space through the insulation between the timbers to establish where water entry actually occurred.
Checking Flashings and Valleys
Lead flashings are notorious for failure around chimneys, particularly where they meet the roof and are covered by small pieces of lead that are screwed to the roof timbers. Here we look for lifted edges, cracked sealant and splits in the cover that will allow slow seepage of water behind the flashing, often remaining hidden until the next heavy rain shower.
Inspecting Ridge Tiles and Verges
Loose or cracked ridge tiles can allow wind-driven rain to penetrate into the roof’s structure. Dampness in coastal homes can frequently be found at verges, where the mortar between the roof tiles is crumbling on the windward side.
Using a Moisture Meter
A moisture meter can be used to test for moisture in the roof, through the felt and boarding, without having to strip back the coverings. It can provide a reading of any wet areas and this can be accurately mapped to show exactly what area needs to be repaired.
For Roofers Selsey, see https://www.randsroofing.co.uk/roofing-services/roofers-selsey.
Finding leaks early means avoiding expensive repair work to clear the resultant damage from timbers and wet insulation later.
