Samantha Mazzotta - 8/18/11

THIS IS A HAMMER

Fast Roof Patching

Q: While organizing the attic, I noticed there was an area of the floor that looked like it had gotten wet recently. I looked at the roof above, but did not notice any holes. But there is a little water streak down the plywood. Is this a serious problem? — Carol H., New Bedford, Mass.

A: If you address it quickly, it will not become a serious problem. Minor leaks in a roof can be patched fairly quickly. They’re often caused by damage to the shingles on top of the roof, which occurs over time due to debris strikes, ice buildup or just general stress from extr...