Detecting Roof Leaks: A Guide for Florida Homeowners

Initial Steps for Detecting a Roof Leak

Below are the first steps for finding a roof leak on any type of roof in Florida, whether it’s flat, sloped, shingle, metal, or tile.

Measure the Leak From Inside the Dwelling

You’ll need to know the exact measurement of the leak inside the dwelling so you can find the exact spot once you are in the attic.

This is important because old water stains from previous leaks may confuse you. Make sure you’re identifying the current leak. Begin by measuring the distance from the leak to two outside walls. Use either the outside walls of the house or the attic opening as your reference point.

If you have a flat roof and there is no attic space, you’ll still need these measurements once you are on the roof.

Before leaving the attic space, take note of any pipes, walls, or vents in the area of the leak. This can help you quickly find the location once you’re on the roof. You can also measure the two outside walls to the leak point while you’re inside the attic. This will give you the most accurate measurement for when you’re on the roof.

• Measurement Tip: Using a measuring tape in the attic is tricky. Instead, count plywood sheets from the eave—each is 4 feet long. Trusses are usually 24 inches apart, so double-check spacing before counting.

Locate the Leak From On Top of the Roof

Once you’re on the roof, take note of any penetrations mentioned in the last step. Use your measurements from the attic to detect the entry point of the leak. From here, you’ll need to look for the leak in different ways depending on the type of roofing system you are working with.

If your measurements lead to a pipe with damaged flashing or a leaking wall, the fix is straightforward. But if it’s less obvious, follow the next steps.

Shingle Roofs

On a shingle roof, to detect a roof leak, look for rusty nails, as they are a clear sign of a leak. Lift some tabs around the area where your measurements lead you and look for rusty nails. Follow them up the roof until they stop.

You might also find damage leading to a wall or penetration where the flashing has been compromised. For example, a roof vent that allows wind-driven rain to get in or a pipe flashing that is damaged.

Tile Roofs

Tile roofs are tricky because leaks often require tile removal to find the exact source. The waterproofing material underneath may be the issue. If the issue is near a vent or damaged wall flashing, it might be more obvious. Once tiles are removed, you’ll see if seams in the underlayment or wall flashing are compromised.

Metal Roofs

Depending on whether you have a standing seam or corrugated metal roof, the signs of a leak may vary. On corrugated roofs, loose screws are often the culprit. For both types, look for damaged flashing, overlapping seams, rust, or holes in the panels. Water may travel along the metal before entering, so the damage might be a few feet from the actual leak.

Flat Roofs

Detecting leaks on flat roofs can be more challenging since there’s often no attic. Water can travel horizontally or between layers of material. Look for points of entry near flashing and penetrations, small punctures in the membrane, and seams pulling apart.

Additional Things to Look For When Detecting a Roof Leak

Florida homes often have stucco, which can crack and let water seep behind the wall and flashing, mimicking a roof leak.

Also, keep an eye out for:

• Overflowing gutters or downspouts that concentrate water on one spot.
• Flat or “dead” valleys that fail to drain properly.
• Insufficient slope on flat roofs causing water to pool, accelerating wear and voiding warranties.

The Final Leak Detection Step

If none of these tactics work, try a water test. Section off parts of the roof and walls, using a hose to replicate rain until you pinpoint the leak.