Chimney and Roof Leak Detection

It’s almost winter. That means snow, ice and deep freezes. Harsh winter weather can lead to a multitude of challenges for your property. If anything can ruin your holidays, it’s a leaky roof or chimney. You certainly don’t want to spend your winter setting out pots to catch the rain or looking toward your ceiling for big water spots. It’s time to brush up on your chimney and roof leak detection techniques. It’s always easier to deal with maintenance issues now than an emergency water damage situation later.

Dealing with chimney leaks

Chimney leaks can influence the operation of your fireplace or wood-burning stove, produce moisture-related structural problems, or foster hazardous mold growth. Many people don’t notice they have a chimney leak until they observe water damage on the ceiling or the walls around a fireplace. Without prompt attention the leak can lead to costly repairs. There are three main causes of chimney leaks:

• Weather – In areas with high rainfall and much precipitation, such as the New England States, an unaddressed chimney leak can become a major concern. Masonry chimneys, for instance, can swell and shrink based on environmental changes.
• Poor construction – Inadequately structured or waterproofed chimneys can heighten the possibility of cracks and leaks. Improperly installed cement and flashing can cause serious problems in time.
• Time lapse – homes shift and settle over time causing fissures along walls, ceilings and brickwork.

Roof leaks lead to water damage

Determining roof leaks may be a little difficult to find since many things can cause water stains on walls or ceiling; if your heating/AC system is experiencing condensation, for instance, or if you have a leaky pipe, a loose valve, or any other type of plumbing problem. Here are a few causes of roof leaks:

• Loose, broken or decaying shingles. This is common with asphalt shingle roofs that are more than 15 or 20 years old.
• Nails; if a shingle nail has backed out and cut through the top shingle.
• Cracks surrounding plumbing vents. A plumbing vent juts through the roof and should be appropriately sealed. The vent is covered by a rubber “boot” which can form chinks with prolonged exposure to the sun.

Leaving it to the professionals

You have better things to do with your holiday’s than finding and repairing a leaky roof or chimney. My advice; leave this to the professionals. Soil-Away Cleaning and Restoration are the ones to call in the New Hampshire area. They can organize an inspection to help you locate the exact location and cause of a chimney or roof leak. While some leaks are quite obvious, others can require an experienced eye. Soil-Away’s professional water damage experts and network of contractor specialists can run tests to determine the exact problem with your chimney or roof. If there are major repairs needed, it’s best to have someone handy who is a qualified professional with experience in this area. The professionals at Soil-Away are highly qualified – they are an IICRC certified company; they are experienced – with over 25 years of service to the New England area under their belts. And they are also available 24/7. Call them at (603) 641-6555.
Written by E. Aceves