There are many potential causes for roof leaks. The most common are roof penetrations, including chimneys, roof vents, and dormers. If you can’t find the leak, you may have to search for a source in the attic. You might notice a dark spot or musty odor, which may be an indicator of a leak. Most roof penetrations are sealed with rubber boots or flashing around the opening. Over time, this rubber seal can break and decay, leaving your house vulnerable to water damage. This leak must be repaired right away.
Poor gutters are another common cause of roof leaks. Clogged gutters allow water to overflow and damage your roof membrane. Also, excessive foot traffic on your roof can wear away the roof membrane. A poorly sealed gutter can even pull away from your home. If you don’t fix the problem before it becomes a serious problem, you might need to replace the roof entirely. A poorly maintained roof is a costly fix.
Skylights can be another source of roof leaks. You may have a leak in a skylight, and it’s difficult to locate it unless you walk underneath it. The drip bucket can collect the water, so you may need to drag it under the skylight and check its exterior. Otherwise, you might need to check for cracks in the window on the inside of the home. If all of these methods fail, you should contact a professional to take care of the problem.
Broken flashing is another common cause of roof leaks. These strips of metal are installed under shingles to direct water away from critical areas. If these pieces of flashing are damaged, water will leak into the house. This is a problem that you need to address right away. Make sure to repair any broken or missing flashings. If you find a broken or uninstalled flashing, it may be a sign of a more serious problem.
Another common cause of roof leaks is old age. Different materials wear down with age. In addition to age, other factors can shorten the lifespan of your roof. Extensive sunlight and harsh weather can also shorten the life of your roof. Consequently, the most common cause of roof leaks is aging. The best way to prevent these problems is to address the root cause and fix the problem right away.
Valleys are another common source of roof leaks. The slope of the valleys makes it prone to water penetration. Look for wet spots near the seams along the roof. This is an indicator that you need to have your valleys repaired. If they are damaged, you might need to hire a professional restoration services company to repair them. Otherwise, you might be exposing yourself to more water than you realize.