Whenever you see a damp stain or dripping water leak inside a property, people automatically assume that a completely new roof covering may be required.

Although this can be a sign of significant issues in the roof areas, more often than not, there is a more straightforward solution to look at.

Therefore, it’s essential to take a step back and look at the issues and potential dangers before going any further.

Here then, are three quick tests to look at, taking an example here in a photo of a small damp stain appearing in the corner of a room:

1. Check No Dangers – Like Electrics

People and even essential roofers often miss this – spotting any immediate dangers from the roof leak before getting stuck into the repair.

Personal items and carpets may get soaked below, as one example.

However, even more important is making sure the electrics are not at risk of being affected by water and risk of fire and people being electrocuted.

Look at this example with a precise electrical socket and wiring directly below the leak.

2. Clarify no Other Causes – Like Cooling Systems

Another classic mistake we see repeatedly is people not realising that such water leaks and stains may be from a completely different source than the roof.

If you take a typical office area, you often have a false ceiling above, which can have pipework for heating and cooling outlets.

These probably have pipes above the ceiling tiles, which may be leaking and causing the issue, not the roof above – in which case, it’s time to call in the mechanical specialists.

In this example, you can see the photo that this isn’t the case, with a standard central heating radiator around the perimeter.

However, check that such heating pipes in the floor above are not leaking and seeping into the bottom below.

3. Consider All Options – Like Drainage Systems

And finally, when you look at the roof itself, be ready to spot an easy problem to solve.

In this example, the water leak was from the hopper head off a flat roof which sends water into a downpipe – a simple, straightforward re-seal may be all that’s needed.

Or, if you look at the roof, maybe a loose tile or ridge tile with missing mortar in the joints.

Oh, so often it’s right in front of your eyes, although if not, then begin identifying where the water will be tracking from

Getting to the Bottom of Roof Leaks, Quickly

Therefore, as you look to quickly and effectively diagnose what’s causing a roof leak or stain, these three angles will help you begin to focus on these.

Start by seeing other dangers to deal with first before ruling out if other non-roof problems are causing this, like heating and cooling systems.

And then finally, use some common sense are start seeing where the leak is on the roof and spotting what’s wrong.

Of course, if you need some experienced help with this as local Birmingham roofers covering the West Midland, contact us today for immediate help and advice.