leak in roof can be costly if not addressed properly. Understanding the following causes can help prevent and manage roof leaks effectively. Knowing these common causes allows you to handle issues appropriately. Here are some of the main culprits behind roof leaks:
1. Damaged or Missing Shingles
Shingles are the outermost barriers which protect the homes from the direct onslaught of natural conditions. On this basis, they can be compromised or knocked off by forces of nature such as torrential rainfall, hail storm, or strong winds. One left shingle allows for water to penetrate and make the roof leak.
2. Clogged Gutters
Gutters have the major function of channelling water away from the roof of the building. These can be blocked by leaves, twigs and many other chucks hence allowing water to build up and this seeps under edge of the roof leading to a lot of leaking. To avoid such a problem, one must always ensure that he or she maintains the gutters properly.
3. Cracked Flashing
Skillion is used in sealing of joints and seams round chimneys, skylights, and vent pipes and it is also called flashing. Sometimes, flashing wears, breaks or deforms and this causes water to seep into the building. Flashing which must be correctly installed and inspected periodically are some of the things that can discourage water from seeping into the building.
4. Improperly Installed Skylights
Skylights can bring natural light into your home, but if installed improperly, they can allow water to penetrate. Often, skylights are not sealed well or are fitted incorrectly, leading to leaks during rainy seasons. To prevent this, choose experienced professionals for installation and replace skylights as needed to keep your home dry.
5. Ice Dams
For instance, in cold climates, there can be a formation of what is commonly referred to as ice dam at the roof’s edge thus hindering proper drainage of melting snows. The water is able to get trapped there and be able to find its way under the shingles hence causing dampness and subsequent leaks. To avoid ice dams, ensure that the attic is well insulated and there is a right form of ventilation.
6. Aging Roof
Roofs, or at least the materials that roofs are made up of have a lifespan that is predetermined. The problem arises when the materials with which a building is constructed get old, and thus, become more permeable to the leaking process. Routine inspections and immediate repair work proven useful to increase the lifespan of a roof and also the occurrence of leakage due to the general wear and tear.
7. Roof Vent Issues
Like all parts of a home, roof vents let your home breathe, but if they are spoiled or not well closed, they will lead to leakages. Ensure that the housing around the vents is cracking and whether the nails holding the housings are missing.