Roof leaks can be tricky, expensive

Q: I have an attached garage with a flat roof. The area between the roof and the wall and chimney area of my house has been leaking. I put roofing cement along the joint between the roof and the wall, with no results. The flashing around the chimney appears deteriorated. What is a possible solution? — Muti S., via e-mail

A: Have the flashing around your chimney repaired and sealed, and ask the professional about improving the seal (perhaps adding flashing) to the joint between the garage roof and the house wall.

A leak around the chimney could be the cause of the water leaking around the wall/roof joint — water could be running along a joist or down the wall frame, only appearing at a lower point, where it has a chance to pool and soak through the drywall.

While the contractor is there, a complete check of your roof, flashing and gutter system should be performed. A torn shingle or a puncture in the sheathing underneath the shingles could be causing an unseen leak or even contributing to the leak you have found.

Make sure the contractor gives you a detailed report and a price estimate before agreeing to have any work done, and that he gets your approval before doing any additional work that might be warranted.

“You may also want to inspect the roof yourself, before and after the repair.

“Remember to use a sturdy ladder and have a partner on hand.

“Wear a safety rope and harness, secured to a sturdy point on the roof or held by your partner, in case you slip.

“While up there, inspect the shingles, all of the joints, the condition of the chimney (including the mortar and brick), and the gutters around the edges.

“Note any potential problem areas and pass them on to the contractor.