Common Causes for a Leaky Roof
The roof on a home or business is one of the most important
parts of the structure. We all know the expense that comes with replacing a
roof, but is there a way to expand the life of a roof? Yes, there is!
Knowing what causes a leaky roof may help you find and stop
the leaks before they become a large investment.
Leaky Roof Causes
·
Flashing
is Cracked: flashing sections may slide out of place if nails go missing or
when caulk cracks over time
·
Holes
From Rooftop Installations: are you removing your TV antenna or installing
something new onto your roof? Remember to patch all holes after removal and
installation. Having these holes open can cause water to draw into the
house/business
·
Broken/Missing
Shingles: broken and missing shingles are common after a strong storm rolls
through an area. Make sure that when the area is safe around your home or
business, to climb on a ladder (if possible) to inspect all areas of the roof,
even those pesky hidden areas.
·
Roof Vent:
remember that anything that penetrates into a roof, like roof vents, be
sealed properly to prevent any leaks
·
Skylights/solar
tubes: you added extra lighting to home/business by installing
skylights/solar tubes but you notice now that they are leaking; this can be
caused either by improperly measuring/fitting of the skylight or decaying of
installation along the skylight/solar tube edges
·
Clogged
Gutters: gutters that a full of leaves and other material will soon become
clogged which will slow down the flowing of water off the roof, giving time for
the water soak into your roof
·
Build-up
of Debris: having twigs, leaves, pine needles on your roof can trap water
on your roof and allow it to seep in by capillary action
·
On Top of
Roof To Often: inspecting your roof is important, it is as equally
important to stay off the roof as much as possible.
·
Roof
Slope: if the slope of the roof is too shallow the wind can lift the
shingles and drive rain underneath. Make sure that the roofing materials that
are used are appropriate the pitch of your roof and the installation is done
correctly
·
Valleys
Not Properly Sealed: there a few reasons why the valleys of roof are not
sealed properly, it could have been that they were not properly when the roof
was first installed, they could have cracked when they were stepped on, excess
of rain, ice could have caused erosion over time
It is only natural that after a certain point and time that
roofing materials will deteriorate. Inspecting your roof with this list in mind
will help improve the longevity of your roof.
