A common problem faced by homeowners, roof leaks can lead to serious damage if not remedied quickly. Though some may think of roof leaks as a small area of moisture or a few drips on the interior side of the roof, a consistent leak can cause rot in the wooden members of the roof and lead to mould problems inside the house, along with the visible dripping. In this article, we will look at the most common causes for roof leaks, the serious consequences that can happen to a home if a leak is allowed to continue, and when a homeowner should consider calling roof repair services.
Common Causes of Roof Leaks
1. Missing or Damaged Shingles
Missing or damaged shingles are a prime suspect when roofs leak. They can occur because of bad weather, age, or poor installation. If shingles are compromised, it’s only a matter of time before the roof itself is letting water in.
2. Flashing Issues
Flashing is the material used to seal the joints and prevent water from finding its way into the house. It’s found around chimneys, vents, and roof valleys. Flashing can’t leak for a roof to stay leak-free. If it does, the roof will be wet in that spot. Roof leaks that happen below a vent or chimney are common.
3. Clogged Gutters
Your gutters have a very important job. They direct water safely away from your roof and foundation. When they are doing their job correctly, we could say it’s almost like they are invisible. If they are clogged with debris, on the other hand, they can make a really ugly problem. They can make a roof look just as bad as any exterior wall. For that reason alone, regular gutter maintenance is important. Clogged gutters can lead to leaks just as easily as worn-out roofing can.
Consequences of Ignoring Roof Leaks
If you disregard roof leaks, you could run into some dire situations, both financially and structurally. You could cause some real damage to your home if rot, mold, or even worse, compromised your roof’s support structure. Timeliness is your ally here! Addressing the issue sooner could save you a bucket of cash. Leaking roofs are serious business, and professional help might be your best option when the roof leak is in the “not quite fixable by hand” zone.
When to Seek Professional Help
But wait! What causes roof leaks? It’s wise to employ pros to pinpoint what’s wrong with your roof, and just as importantly, to tell you what’s not wrong that you may have thought was a problem. They can find the real source of a leak and fix it. Your average DIYer cannot do that. Your average handyman cannot do that. Even the average roofing contractor cannot always diagnose a roof problem correctly.
If you suspect a problem with your roof, hire a building envelope consultant, or a good architect or engineer with experience in roof design and problem resolution—especially if there is the potential for water damage to the interiors of your home. For comprehensive information on how to address these issues, consider visiting roof leaks repair.
