In some cases what appears to be a roof surface leak is not a leak at all but rather an interior source of water. Here are some examples –
Air leakage from the house: If household air can leak into the attic, the warm moist air will condense on surfaces in the attic during cold weather. This can cause damage to the roof decking and structural framing and in severe cases cause water to drip back into the house. The usual air leakage paths are; bathroom exhaust vents, plumbing stacks, recessed lighting and attic hatch.
Leaking forced air ducting: If heating and cooling ducting runs through the attic, it should be well sealed. A leaking duct is a big leak of air from the house into the attic and will cause condensation during cold weather.
Air conditioning ducting: If air conditioning ducting runs through the attic, it should be well insulated and should have a vapor barrier. Condensation forms on cold air ducts and can drip down into the ceiling.
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