There are multiple causes for this leak and often it depends on the type of pipe flashing used.
Small leak in roof.
Compromised structure of the building some problems that occur from a leaking roof include damaged rafters joists wall framing as well as the fascia boards.
The goal is to find the leak before the entire roof goes bad.
For example soak the downhill side of a chimney first then each side then the top on both sides.
You know the roof is bad if shingles are missing or obviously damaged or when water stains the ceiling or walls.
Recaulk the corner flashing if any areas have hardened caulk.
Nevertheless whatever caused the leak is not very important as typically it s something with the flashing.
These devious tiny holes can result from misplaced roofing nails.
Another typical roof leak is one at a vent pipe penetration.
Start low soaking the area just above where the leak appears in the house.
Therefore the best way to repair it is to replace the actual pipe flashing.
Place the shingle or plywood onto the tar and spread more of the tar around the edges of your patch.
Roof holes can also be more sneaky living for years until an inspection uncovers them.
Use a putty knife to spread the tar into the leaking hole on the inside of your roof.
Some overhead leaks are due to minor problems such as a single torn shingle or a small hole in flashing that you can usually handle with a little diy experience and some.
Dig out any cracked or dry caulking that isn t properly sealing adjoining surfaces and replace with silicone caulk.
Creating gaps between shingles exposed nail heads and rapid shingle deterioration.
Or they can be left over from a former antenna mounting bracket.
Replace any missing or rotted siding above the step flashing on dormers.
Finding the actual spot where the roof leaks is difficult because water can enter the roof in one place and run down to another before it starts soaking into the ceiling.
Inspect the underside of the roof for objects that have pierced it or have been attached to it.
However it may run along the underside of the roof and drip directly down the framing of the house.
Once you ve found the leak you can make a temporary leak patch from some plywood or shingle and some roofing tar.
Most noticeable to the eye are leaks caused by an object for example an errant nail that s managed.
Even small gaps or craks on newer shingles can cause a roof leak.
Assessing a roof leak.
If a leak is difficult to find enlist a helper and go up on the roof with a garden hose.
Isolate areas when you run the hose.
