Dealing with roof leaks can be a nightmare for homeowners. Although a traditional shingled roof is meant to last up to twenty-five years, leaks can develop long before a roof’s lifespan ends. It is important homeowners are aware of the signs of leaks, and the five most common types of leaks, so they will know what repairs to seek from the professionals.
What Are the Signs of Roof Leaks?
Companies like RoofTec often get calls from stressed homeowners who have discovered their roof is leaking. Unfortunately, the initial signs of minor leaks often go undetected until major problems begin. The following offers some information on the signs homeowners can watch for to determine if they have a roof leak that needs investigating.
- One of the most common signs is water spots on the walls and ceilings.
- Homeowners may notice shingles are missing on their roofs.
- Another sign of roof leaks is cracked or damaged shingles.
- Water spots in the attic are a common sign of roof leaks.
- Damaged flashing or boot covers are also signs of problems with a roof.
Should a homeowner notice any of the above signs, they need to seek a roofing repair contractor right away. Waiting too long to seek repairs will only cause roof leaks to worsen. Eventually, catastrophic roof damages could occur that become expensive to repair.
5 Causes of Roof Leaks
Roof leaks occur for various reasons. Homeowners need to be aware of these reasons so they will know when to spot problems and take action. The following provides information on five of the most common reasons for a roof developing a leak.
- Problems With Improperly Driven Nails: When a roofer is nailing shingles to a roof, the nails must be driven correctly. Sometimes, nails are not driven deep enough. Nails may also be driven at an angle. Nail problems can cause shingles to loosen. The solution for this type of problem is to remove the improperly driven nails and properly nail the shingle in place.
- Pipe Boot Failures: Pipes that run through the roof must have a boot in place to keep water from running into the home. These boots must be installed correctly, and using the right type is essential. The most common failures occur with neoprene or synthetic rubber boots. When issues arise with a boot failure, a sleeve or collar can be put in place around the pipe to further protect against water invasion.
- A Lack of Flashing at the Gutters: For water to run into the gutter systems effectively, proper flashing must be in place. It is also essential for homeowners keep their gutters clean and free of debris. If the valleys of a roof are collecting water, it is time to call a roofing contractor to come out and replace the flashing.
- Collar Failure at the Gas Vent: Gas vents are essential for preventing the buildup of carbon monoxide in a home. Gas vents are protected with a collar to prevent water from getting inside a home. Unfortunately, collar failure can occur. To fix this issue, a roofing contractor will need to come out and lift the collar into its correct position and then use caulking material to make sure it is sealed.
- Wear and Tear of the Chimney: Chimneys are the most vulnerable parts of roofs. As they degrade over time, leaks can begin to occur. The metal flashing installed around chimneys is often a source of failure. If leaks are occurring in the chimney area, it is essential a homeowner calls in a roofing professional to take care of the problem. This is not an issue that can be ignored or put off for later.
Roof Inspections Are Important
It is imperative homeowners inspect their roofs a couple of times a year and after severe storms. Inspecting a roof ensures minor roof damages are discovered before they become big problems.
In addition to a homeowner checking their roofs, it is also wise to hire a roofing contractor for a thorough annual inspection of a roof. A contractor may be able to spot roof problems that are not obvious to a homeowner.
Roof Repair Is Not For DIYers
Many homeowners bristle at the thought of being forced to pay for roof repairs. A homeowner may attempt a DIY repair because they want to save money. Taking a DIY approach to roof repair is not recommended. Homeowners could end up paying more money than they would with a contractor because they cause further damage.
Roofing contractors go through extensive training and have the tools and equipment to install or repair a roof safely and effectively. Without the right knowledge and tools, a homeowner could place their lives in jeopardy while trying to repair a roof.
Prompt Repairs Prevent Additional Roof Damage
Major roof damage can occur when leaks are allowed to continue. Once the water begins infiltrating a home, the porous building materials begin to expand and become damaged. Over time, rotting will set in, making the homeless sturdy and durable.
If a homeowner notices any of the above signs of roof leaks in their home, they need to act quickly and call a professional roofing contractor. Prompt roof repairs will stop leaks and prevent further damage, lessening the costs of repairs.
Schedule a Roof Inspection Today
Homeowners who have noticed problems with their roof should call a roofing contractor to schedule an inspection. These inspections are thorough and will allow the contractor to pinpoint the exact problem so it can be corrected. During the inspection, a roofing contractor may also find other potential sources of problems that can be easily remedied before major damages begin to set in.
Ideally, homeowners should schedule a roof inspection annually. In areas where storms and high winds occur frequently, having the roof inspected a couple of times a year may be beneficial.
If you have noticed signs of leaks, such as wet spots on the ceilings or missing shingles, contact a roofing contractor right away. The longer these issues are left in place, the more damages occur. Acting now will protect the integrity of your roof and help you avoid major repairs.
