Why Is My Roof Leaking?

Category: Roof Repairs • August 14, 2021

Sometimes the tell-tale signs are plain as day – like water stains on the ceiling, or water dripping through the ceiling and onto the floor, furniture, and other belongings. Common cause? A roof leak. And the faster you get it fixed, the less damage your home will incur.

The question is how do you stop the leaking? The first step is to determine the cause. Here are 8 of the most common causes of roof leaks and what you can do to stop and prevent them.

 

 

  1. One or more holes in the roof. This is the most obvious entry point, one that can easily admit water into your attic and ultimately your living space. Holes can be caused by something hitting and damaging your roof or to a general lack of maintenance. If you’re removing an object from you roof, like a satellite dish, be sure the holes are filled.
  2. Damaged or missing shingles. Roofing shingles are your home’s first line of defense against the elements. When shingles become compromised in any way, they can allow water to find it’s way in. Faulty materials, poor installation, and storm damage can cause shingles to peel, crack, or break. Inspect your roof periodically, especially after severe weather. If the rest of the roof is in good condition, you should be able to just have the missing or damaged shingles replaced.
  3. Clogged or damaged gutters. Gutters are responsible for moving rainwater and snow melt off your roof and away from your home. If they become clogged with leaves, sticks, and other debris, water can build up and creep under the shingles, causing leaks. Inspect and clean your gutters two to three times per year to keep water moving freely.
  4. An aging roof. Nothing lasts forever, including your roof. As a roof gets older, it can become worn and brittle, making your home susceptible to water intrusion. Lack of maintenance can drastically reduce the years a roof might last, while proper care can extend its lifespan. If your roof is getting up there in years, any leaks could simply be due to normal wear and tear. At this point, it’s best to replace it
  5. Damaged flashing. Flashing, the metal that covers seams and joints, can allow water to enter a roof if it wasn’t properly installed, moves out of position, or becomes damaged over time. Inspect the flashing around chimneys and other areas and have it repaired or replaced if you see cracks or corrosion.
  6. Peaks and valleys. Roof peaks and valleys can create potential entry points if water is not able to flow off your roof or if the V-shaped spots are not fully sealed. Again, routine inspections can help identify such problems before they result in significant damage.
  7. Skylights, vents, and chimneys. If not installed or sealed properly, these features can leave gaps where water can enter your home. Maybe the skylight sizing was off or the seal around it has deteriorated. Damaged or missing mortar in the chimney can also lead to water seepage.
  8. Condensation in the attic. Sometimes, the leak isn’t from the outside. If an attic lacks proper ventilation or insulation, condensation can build up and lead to water damage, mildew, and mold. Make sure your attic has proper air circulation and that the insulation is intact.

If you’ve ever suffered through a roof repair, you know they’re well worth preventing. Zaman Roofing is ready to help you do just that with periodic roof and attic inspections. Contact us today to schedule service – it’s an easy and affordable way to gain added peace of mind.