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

2. The Hose Trick for “Ghost” Leaks

For stubborn leaks, use the classic garden hose test with a helper inside.

  1. Go on the roof with a hose and start low on the area above the interior stain.
  2. Soak a small zone at a time — for example:
    • Downhill side of a chimney
    • Then each side
    • Then the uphill side and saddle
  3. Let the water run for several minutes before moving the hose up.
  4. 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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