2. The Hose Trick for “Ghost” Leaks
For stubborn leaks, use the classic garden hose test with a helper inside.
- Go on the roof with a hose and start low on the area above the interior stain.
- Soak a small zone at a time — for example:
- Downhill side of a chimney
- Then each side
- Then the uphill side and saddle
- Let the water run for several minutes before moving the hose up.
- Your helper inside watches for the first drip and yells when they see it.
This can easily take an hour or more — don’t rush it.
If water still isn’t revealing the leak location, start carefully removing shingles in the suspect area. Underneath, look for:
- Discolored or wrinkled felt
- Water-stained or soft wood
- Rot around penetrations

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