You know roof leaks can result in thousands of dollars of damage to your home — your main financial investment. What can you do to prevent roof leaks and other roofing issues?
First, it’s important to understand the six main reasons roof leaks occur in the first place. That way, you can make sure to get regular maintenance updates in the areas that matter.
1. Your Flashing Is Degrading
Flashing is metal sheeting placed underneath the shingles. It’s installed in valleys, where slopes meet, and around ventilation and pipes that exit the roof, including the chimney.
The purpose of flashing is to facilitate water runoff and prevent absorption into the roof deck. When the metal begins to corrode, it could allow water to seep into your attic. Corrosion or buckling occurs when it was not installed correctly or if nails or caulk are missing.
2. Your Skylights Are Leaking
Maybe your skylights weren’t measured correctly, or maybe the insulation and flashing surrounding the skylight opening is beginning to rot. Whatever the cause, when water leaks from around a skylight, you should be concerned. You might notice water stains on the interior drywall, and if it is left unattended, mold can begin to grow.
3. Your Gutters Are Overflowing
When was the last time you cleaned your gutters? Can’t remember? If leaves and debris are blocking the drainpipes, your gutters can overflow during the next rainstorm and the moisture can seep back into your attic.
During the winter, ice dams can form when gutters are not functioning properly, causing further water damage and leading to more serious leaks in your attic and other areas of your home.
4. Your Roof Has Inherent Structural Problems
If the original contractor did not slope your roof correctly, prepare to deal with roof leaks until the problem is solved. A shallow pitch allows shingles to fly off in high winds, and also may lead to water pooling on the surface.
5. Your Ventilation Is Inadequate
Ventilation is one of the central components to a properly functioning roof. If the vents are not placed in correct attic locations, you may end up with an increased level of condensation and moisture in the attic, contributing to premature rot of your roof decking and shingles.
Rot usually leads to leaks, and the constant presence of water leads to mold.
6. Your Roof Is Just Plain Old
If your roof is over a few decades old, don’t be surprised when leaks appear in a previously sturdy roofing system. Shingles may be missing or buckling, or the granules might be draining off into the gutters.
Stay conscious of the health of your current roof, and budget for a replacement before leaks lead to more serious issues.
Whether you need a new roof or a few simple roofing repairs, don’t wait until your home is plagued with roof leaks to call the Roof Doctor — contact our team today for a trusted opinion on your home’s roof.