Attic Leak Signs: What to Look For
The attic is where roof problems usually show up first. A careful look a couple of times a year can catch a leak long before it stains a ceiling.
Request a rooferBe safe up there
Step only on joists or a walkway, never between them, and watch for nails coming through the roof boards. Take a good flashlight.
Water stains
Brown rings or streaks on the underside of the roof boards and rafters, often with damp or compressed insulation below.
Frost and condensation
In cold weather, frost on nail tips or the underside of the decking means warm, moist air is getting into the attic. When it melts it drips, which can look like a leak.
Daylight
Light showing through around vent pipes, chimneys or the decking means water can get in too.
Mould and smells
Dark spotting on wood or a musty smell suggests moisture has been there a while.
What next
See roof leak repair, or send a request describing what you found.
Check after a big rain
The day after heavy rain or a thaw is the most useful time to look, while any water is still visible. Note where you see it relative to chimneys, vent pipes and valleys above, and photograph it.
Ventilation clues
Rusty nails, a very hot attic in summer, or frost in winter all suggest the attic isn't venting properly. Blocked soffit vents, often covered by insulation, are a common cause and are easy for a roofer or insulator to fix.
Bathroom fans
Bath and kitchen fans should vent outside through the roof or a wall, not into the attic. A fan that dumps warm, damp air into the attic is a common cause of frost, staining and mould on the decking above.
More roofing guides
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