A leaking roof can be a huge problem, and it’s important to know what the causes might be so that you can take steps to fix it. There are many potential causes of a leaky roof, from faulty construction to damage from weather or pests. Let’s take a look at some of the most common ones.
One common cause of leaks is poor construction or installation. If your roof wasn’t installed properly, there may be gaps or weak spots where water can seep through. This is especially common around chimneys, skylights, and vents. Make sure that these areas are well-sealed to prevent leaks.
Another common cause of roof leaks is damaged from the weather. High winds can damage shingles and cause them to come loose, while heavy rains can saturate the roof and cause water to seep through. Snow and ice can also cause problems, as they can weigh down your roof and cause leaks.
Pests are another common culprit when it comes to roof leaks. Animals like squirrels, raccoons, and birds can all cause damage to your roof as they try to get into your home. They can create holes and tear shingles, causing water to come through. To prevent this, make sure that your home is well-sealed and that there are no openings that pests could use to get inside.
If you have a leaking roof, it’s important to figure out the cause so that you can take steps to fix it. If you’re not sure what the problem is, it’s a good idea to call in a professional to take a look. They’ll be able to identify the source of the leak and recommend a course of action. In most cases, leaks can be fixed fairly easily. However, if the problem is more serious, you may need to replace your roof.
If you think that you may have a leaking roof, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. They can help you figure out the cause and recommend a course of action. In most cases, leaks can be fixed fairly easily. However, if the problem is more serious, you may need to replace your roof.
The best way is the biannual inspection of the roof. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends this. The best times are autumnal fall and late spring. Winter is the harshest on roofs. Many in the roofing business will offer free inspections with a written estimate detailing the necessary repairs. It is part of their business strategy to create goodwill.
Once a leak is noticed do not delay for a moment because in no time it can cause damage to anything under the roof – walls, floors, ceilings, furniture, and personal items. A tiny leak can soon swell into a big one compelling the owner to replace the entire ceiling.
The most common cause for leaky roofs is not always asphalt shingles but faults in the flashing round chimneys, vents, fans, and skylights. Poke around the lining roof valleys as well as the eaves for telltale signs. Exposure to wind and rain often causes the caulking (the compound used with flashing or the rubber for sealing pipes etc) to become dry. The ultraviolet rays of the sun add to the mayhem. The dried-out stuff begins to crack and crinkle and loosen the seal s inviting water to seep and drip in.
This type of problem can be easily tackled with asphalt cement at a nominal cost. The repair will last through three trouble-free years. If the flashing is replaced then for ten years the owner need not worry. Rusted flashing that has begun to corrode can also be a source of worry. These can be cleaned and repainted with a type of paint that is resistant to rust. But the flashing and vents that have been badly damaged should be discarded and replaced.
As with everything in life – old age is one of the main reasons for leaky roofs. Age makes the asphalt shingles curl and cracks causing tears. The mineral granules wear off and expose the black asphalt. This is a sure sign of total replacement. If only a handful of shingles are damaged a temporary repair will suffice. But if one out of five or at the most ten shingles is showing signs of decay then the entire roof needs replacement.
Other criminals work on the roof – broken branches and debris cause injury to the roof. The tree branches should be trimmed at least 8″ away from the house. Leaves are innocent-looking killers. They pile up and prevent free flow of water they trap it. Wood frames and sheathing quietly begin to rot. Gutters choked with leaves and debris causes the water to back up with a reverse negative impact on the roof. Gutters and downspouts require regular inspection.
Need a new roof
If you require a new roof, it is important to get it taken care of as soon as possible. A damaged roof can lead to a lot of damage in your home, so it is important to make sure that you take care of any issues as soon as you notice them. There are a lot of different roofing materials available on the market, so you will need to do some research to find the best option for your home. You will also need to decide whether or not you want to hire a professional roofer to install your new roof. If you are not comfortable with doing this yourself, it is definitely worth the money to have someone else do it for you.
How long should a new roof last without leaking?
A new roof should last anywhere from 10 to 20 years without leaking, depending on the quality of the materials used and the installation. However, even the best roof will eventually start to leak if it isn’t properly maintained. So, be sure to have your roof inspected at least once a year, and fix any leaks as soon as they are discovered.
