Leaky Roof & Gutter Survival Guide: How to Find, Fix, and Prevent Costly Water Damage

1. How to Hunt Down Roof Leaks

Start your search uphill from the stain you see inside the house.

Open shingle fields rarely leak on their own — most leaks start where something penetrates the roof:

  • Plumbing vents and roof vents
  • Chimneys
  • Dormers
  • Any pipe, skylight, or projection through the roof

These trouble spots can be a few feet above or to the side of the visible stain.

If you have attic access, grab a flashlight and look for:

  • Dark water stains
  • Black marks
  • Mold or damp insulation

No attic access or vaulted ceilings? You’ll have to inspect from the roof surface itself.

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