Douglas Roof & Leak
Leak repair

Attic leak tracing

Wet insulation with a dry ceiling below is one of the more useful diagnostic findings, because it means the water is being caught before it gets through — and it usually points at flashing or a pipe boot rather than the field of the roof. It can also be condensation, which is a ventilation problem and needs a completely different fix. Telling them apart matters: sealing the roof on a condensation problem achieves nothing and often makes it worse by reducing airflow further.

Call (229) 592-0097

What the job involves

  • Moisture survey across insulation, decking and framing
  • Distinguishing ingress from condensation before any work
  • Inspection of every penetration from inside the roof space
  • Assessment of insulation that has been wet and lost performance
  • Ventilation assessment where condensation is the cause

Signs you need it

  • Damp or compressed insulation with no ceiling stain
  • Frost or water droplets on the underside of the decking
  • A musty smell in the roof space

Where we cover

Each area has its own page for attic leak tracing.

Questions

How do I tell a leak from condensation?

Leaks track rain — they appear or worsen during and just after it. Condensation tracks cold snaps and is usually spread evenly across the underside of the decking rather than concentrated at one point. Frost on the nails in winter is condensation, every time.

Does wet insulation need replacing?

If it has been properly wet, yes. Fibre insulation compresses when saturated and does not recover its R-value when it dries, so it goes on looking fine while performing at a fraction of its rating.

Related work

Describe what you are seeing

South Georgia roofs take long-duration wind from tropical systems and then sit in heat and humidity the rest of the year. Water that gets in does not dry out on its own.

Call (229) 592-0097
Call (229) 592-0097