Roof leaks can cause major problems for any homeowner. From moisture dripping from your ceiling, to ugly water stains, mold, and even structural damage, a simple leak can ruin your home. It can also greatly increase your chances of electric shock and fires, posing a massive safety risk. To prevent all these potential problems, you should understand what causes leaks.
To better stop roof leaks, you need to appreciate what the top causes are and why.
Age
Older roofs have older materials, meaning that they will be weaker and more susceptible to damage. If your roof is over 20 years old, you should pay closer attention and do more frequent inspections to watch out for any signs that there is damage starting.
Damaged Coverings
The coverings of your roof, especially shingles, can become loose or damaged, allowing space for moisture to get through and get into your home. Damage can come from nearby trees hitting it, wind blowing them loose, or even leaves and snow sitting and exposing your covering to moisture.
Cracked Flashings
Flashings are absolutely crucial when it comes to preventing water from getting in to already vulnerable spots. Flashings need to be installed around skylights, chimneys, valleys and any other area where there are openings.
Unsealed Valleys
If you have a more complex roof design, you will probably have valleys where different parts meet. These valleys must be properly sealed because water will naturally flow into them.
Overflowing Gutters
Gutters must be kept clear at all times to prevent obstructions. Once gutters get blocked, you will end up with water backing up and overflowing onto your roof and near your foundation. When water overflows onto your roof, moisture is allowed to sit and work its way through your roof. In the winter this becomes even more problematic when the water freezes and forms ice dams.
Improper Installation
Improper installation is a major cause for concern in many ways. But it is especially problematic when it comes to preventing leaks. That is because improper installation can allow for openings for moisture to get in, or pieces to come loose and fall off.
Skylights
Skylights are an amazing addition to your home, but can be very problematic in terms of leaks. Whether it is from improper installation leaving gaps, materials rotting from poor maintenance, or old age, all can end up causing leaks in your home. Whenever you cut into your roof there will always be a risk, so make sure you choose durable materials, keep up with maintenance, and install flashings.
Poor Ventilation
While you may not think that ventilation in your roof is a major issue, it does play a role in creating roof leaks. When there is no air flowing through your attic, you can end up with heat getting absorbed from your roof and then trapped. That means it can create a perfect humid climate and prevent moisture on your roof from drying.
Conclusion
Don’t let roof leaks damage your home. By paying attention to the common causes and staying on top of preventing them, you can avoid all the stress and costs that come with roof leaks. Contact our Orlando roof repair experts for an inspection.