How can I tell if my roof is leaking?

A leaky roof is not only an expensive problem to have, but it’s also a dangerous one. If water is able to get under your shingles, the substructure is at risk of becoming moldy and rotting, putting your health and safety at risk. Depending on the age and condition of your roof, you should keep an eye out for these 5 signs of a leaky roof so that you can address any potential problems right away.

1. Algae Growth

Algae growing on your roof shingles is a sign that moisture is present. Algae growth is common in roof systems that exposed to humid climates. This growth can affect the performance of your shingles and lead to a leaky roof.

2. Buckling Shingles.

If your roof’s shingles are no longer laying flat and appear to be buckling up that’s a sign that moisture has penetrated the wood roofdeck causing it to expand in the humidity and contract in colder weather. This continuous movement of the wood creates buckles in the shingles, allowing even more moisture to penetrate the roofdeck, which leads to a leaky roof.

3. Damaged Flashing

Flashing is an important feature of your roofing system. It protects your roofdeck from water at any joint on your roof including the chimney and any dormers. If flashing is damaged water can seep under your shingles at the joints.

4. Curling Shingles

Another telltale sign that your roof is susceptible to leaks is if your shingles are curled. Curled shingles occur from water absorption. They can also curl from warm air in the attic and improper ventilation. Curled shingles are dangerous because they don’t provide proper protection from moisture.

5. Ceiling Spots

If water is leaking into your home, you may eventually find water stains on your ceiling. These stains are likely to show up around vents and joints. However water can travel from the leak to another point in your home making it difficult to find the source of the leak.

Depending on the severity of a leak, your roof may require a full replacement. For more information on roof replacement and maintenance see our FAQ: How can I tell if my roof needs replacing?

If you're concerned about your roof, find a roofing contractor in your area that can help determine if your roof is leaking and in need of repair.