Track the source of water in your home

Dear Glenn: I have a 30-year-old ranch home. During September 2004, we had a new roof installed after removing two layers of old shingles. In addition, all rotted wood was replaced, a 1 1/2 -foot aluminum drip edge installed around all eaves and edges, an ice and water shield and new and additional roof vents were installed.

A few weeks ago, I noticed a 2 1/2 -foot-long water stain on my bedroom ceiling. When I touched the stain, my hand was very wet. Prior to getting a new roof, it leaked in that same spot.

When I called to complain, I was told that not even the ice guard is 100 percent effective and if ice forms in the gutters, the water will back up with no other alternative.

The original installer told me that I needed to get a roof rake and put salt in my gutters. He indicated Channel 2 News did a story recently informing people of this.

Please let me know if you think his advice is acceptable or should I be more aggressive on my complaint.

Carol, Sterling Heights

Dear Carol: It sounds like your roofer did a very good job. You have not said whether you have ice dams or have been up to your attic to see where the water is coming from.

Unfortunately the water damage could be caused by a severe case of condensation in the attic due to lack of insulation.

You don’t know until you track the source and route of the water.

If you have trouble tracking the water, call Bob Carey of Infrared Services of Michigan, (810) 329-9033, and have the area scanned.

Carey will shoot an infrared scan showing the route of the water. He can also tell insulation in the attic or if he sees something else that may be causing your problem.