Leak detection and waterproofing is one of the most valuable services Top View Roofing provides because finding the true source of a leak is often the hardest part of solving the problem. Water can travel, especially on low slope roofs, moving along seams, under membranes, and across decking before entering the building. That means the interior leak location is often not the same as the roof entry point. At Top View Roofing, we approach leak detection systematically, combining experience with careful roof evaluation, detail checks, and targeted testing when needed. The goal is to identify the real entry path and apply waterproofing repairs that last.
Leaks can come from obvious damage, but many come from subtle conditions. Common sources include failed flashing at penetrations, cracked sealant, separated seams, deteriorated pipe boots, damaged skylight flashings, loose coping joints, open terminations at parapet walls, clogged drains that cause water backup, punctures from rooftop traffic, and wind driven rain pushing water into small openings. On residential roofs, leaks often occur around valleys, chimneys, step flashing, vents, and skylights, or due to missing or lifted shingles. On commercial roofs, seams, drains, rooftop units, and perimeter terminations are frequent problem areas.
Effective leak detection starts with understanding the roof type and how water behaves on that roof. On a single ply system, seams, terminations, and penetrations are high priority. On EPDM roofs, seam tapes and flashing details require careful inspection. On metal roofs, fasteners and panel laps can be entry points. On spray foam roofs, coating wear and mechanical damage can expose foam and create vulnerabilities. On coated systems, adhesion issues, cracks, and detail failures can allow water in. Each system has typical failure points, and diagnosing those points helps prevent misdirected repairs.
Top View Roofing begins by gathering information, when the leak occurs, how heavy the rain was, whether wind was involved, and whether rooftop equipment service occurred recently. We then inspect the roof systematically, moving from the most likely sources outward. We check drains and scuppers, penetrations, seams and laps, edge details, and walls. We look for telltale signs like dirt trails where water runs, soft spots that suggest moisture, stained insulation on commercial roofs, and deteriorated sealant lines. We also evaluate drainage and ponding water areas because standing water increases stress on weak points.
Once the source is identified, waterproofing is about restoring the integrity of the roof system, not just applying sealant. The correct repair depends on the roof. Single ply repairs may involve welding patches, reinforcing seams, rebuilding flashings, or replacing sections of membrane. EPDM repairs may involve seam tape replacement, flashing repairs, and compatible adhesive methods. Metal roof waterproofing may involve fastener replacement, panel lap sealing, and flashing upgrades. Spray foam waterproofing may involve coating repair, foam rebuilding where needed, and recoating at correct thickness. Coating system waterproofing may involve reinforcing seams and details and restoring uniform coverage.
Waterproofing also includes prevention. If the leak was caused by clogged drains, cleaning and maintenance may be required. If the leak was caused by foot traffic, adding walk pads and designating service paths can reduce future damage. If coping joints are allowing water in, coping repair or replacement may be necessary. If ponding is a recurring condition, drainage corrections may be needed. Top View Roofing focuses on addressing the condition that caused the leak so you are not calling for the same issue again in the next storm.
Leak detection and waterproofing is especially important after storms. Wind driven rain can find openings that normal rain does not exploit. Hail can create punctures and seam stress that later become leaks. A post storm leak investigation can catch problems early and reduce interior damage. For commercial property owners, fast response protects tenants and operations. For homeowners, fast repairs protect drywall, insulation, and belongings.
If you have a roof leak, do not settle for repeated patches that do not solve the cause. Top View Roofing can locate the true source and provide waterproofing repairs designed for long term performance. Our goal is to restore confidence in your roof system so your building stays dry, protected, and ready for the next Oklahoma storm.
