Ford Forum

Had our 04 reg C-Max for about 18 months and generally happy with apart from problem with clock on audio system which worked when we first bought it but entered its own time zone and has refused to leave it ever since.

Anyway, got in today and was mildly surprised to see water around gear lever. on starting the engine and setting off was very surprised to see water dripping from the front inside light. Was then horrified to realise that the drivers seat was soaked (hadn't noticed initially as we have seat covers on). This has never happened before and all I can think is that the recent sub zero temps have caused the strip on the roof to deteriorate. This is the first heavy rain we've had since the snow started to disappear.

How easy is it to get and fit a new "strip" on the roof? Is there likely to be any lasting serious damage as a result of this leak? Anxious to get it fixed asap before we get more rain.

Roof leaks should be fixed immediately since it can seriously damage your home in a minimum amount of time. Keep your eyes open for any water stains and mold since it is the first signs of damage to your roof. Take the necessary precautions to limit the damage until you can inspect it from outside and repair it.

Materials Needed In Fixing A Roof Leak

The materials needed are binoculars, flashing cement, bucket and string, extension ladder, putty knife, tape measure, roof ladder, flashlight, screw driver or drill with different bits.

Finding The Leak Inside Of Your Home

The first place that you should check is the area above where the leak is coming from. Check the floor of the attic with the help of a flashlight and look for any H20 stains, water pools or damage insulation. Check the lower portion of the roof of your home for any wetness or molds especially around the vents. These usually indicate damage in the flashing portion of the roof.

A leak from such areas also shows damage in the material of the roof. Do not forget that H20 may pass sideways before leaking through the sheathing of the roof. Take some measurements from the inside points that you can also found outside. Begin from the middle of a sidewall or ridge. If the ceiling of your home is connected to the rafters of your roof, the only thing that you can do from inside your home is to get the measurements that will aid you to find the damage outside your residence and try to limit the problem internally.

Controlling The Leak

H2O can easily traverse the bottom portion of the rafter before leaking in a single or more area inside your home. To direct the water where it leaks, place a string into the stream and let it fall into a container. The H2O leak tends to follow the piece of string. Create a hole in the ceiling to let the excess water fall through easily. This method will also prevent the ceiling from rotting because of over saturation.

Finding The Leak From Outside Of Your Home

With the measurements that you have gathered from inside your residence, make an initial assessment of the condition of the roof by using binoculars and a roof ladder. Avoid going up the roof when it is raining since it becomes slippery and dangerous. Look for any fallen leaves and other materials that affect the flow of H2O. If your roof is filled with snow, there might be a dam at the lower portion of the roof which causes the H20 to penetrate the roofing. Take it out carefully. If you can safely examine its location, look for any damage to the roof material or holes that the water can pass through.

Use metal flashings to fix the hole or you can change the gaskets of the vents. You also have to examine the portions of your roof that are previous damages that have been fixed with flashing cement if they have been damaged again. If there are any damages, reapply flashing cement with help of the putty knife. You also have to check the connections of the antenna, cable dish or any other items in your roof. Use roof flashing to secure the screws of each item. If the leak is coming from the middle of the roof and not the flashing, check for damaged shingles. On roofs made out of wood, check for cracked shingles. You can also check the joints to see if they are the source of the leak. Flat roofs usually need a closer examination to locate damaged portions.

Additional Tips

Avoid walking on a roof that has a high temperature or very old since it is more susceptible to damage. Use a roof ladder when checking your roof. For additional safety, place catwalks over the roof frames. This will also help protect the drywall of your roof ceiling.