A leaky roof is a serious problem. The most critical structural element of your property, its primary defense against the outside elements, needs to be completely secure and impenetrable. However, the sad fact is that even the sturdiest, professionally installed roofing systems are susceptible to damage.
Leakage is the most common roofing issue. Roof leaks typically start small but keep getting bigger if not repaired. You may get by initially by placing drip buckets at strategic places when it rains. However, that is not the right way of dealing with a leaking roof.
Postponing roof leak repair leads to severe water damage that causes rot, destroys the building structure, and creates health hazards from mold buildup. Critters can start finding a way inside through the hole in the roof, damaging the insulation and compromising indoor air quality.
It is, without any doubt, necessary to get roof leaks repaired at the earliest. The first step forward is finding what caused the leakage. Locating the exact reason for the roof leak is essential for fixing the damage correctly and preventing future problems.
Let us look at the most common causes of roofing leaks.
Broken or Missing Shingles
If the roof shingles are compromised somehow, rainwater runoff tends to seep into the roofing system instead of flowing down to the gutters. Sometimes, improper roof installation or use of sub-par roofing materials can lead to shingle damage and, after that, to leakage.
Clogged Gutters
If gutters get choked with dirt, leaves, pine needles, and other debris, roof runoff that should flow safely away from the roof starts accumulating beneath the roof shingles and results in leaks.
Skylight Issues
An issue with the installation or sealing of skylights is another cause of water penetration through the roof. A cracked skylight is also a potential source of leakage.
Cracked Chimney or Vent Booting
A damaged chimney and broken or missing mortar around it can allow water to seep into the property. Similarly, leaks can start due to the failure of the booting at the base of the gas vent or stack line on the roof.
Damaged Flashing
Improperly installed, cracked, corroded, or otherwise damaged flashing is quite a common reason for leaking roofs.
Attic Condensation
The water damage may even come from inside the house. Condensation can occur in the attic because of poor ventilation or improper insulation, causing leakage from the ceiling, along with mold and mildew growth.
The issues mentioned above can crop up due to natural wear and tear of the property with time or else because of accidental factors such as storm damage, pest activity, and fallen tree/branch. The best way to deal with roof leakage is to hire an experienced and reputable roofing contractor.
Place a call to Tedrick’s Roofing if you have a leaking roof in your residential or commercial property. Residents of Auburn, WA, and the nearby areas can contact us at (206) 222-3150 to schedule roof leak repair services.