Common Causes of Leaks
Roof leaks can be a major problem, even in idyllic settings like Largo. Florida receives its fair share of rain, and a leaking roof can cause damage to other parts of your home. It’s important therefore to take any preventative measures possible to prevent roof leaks before they develop. Here are some of the typical causes that lead to roof leaks, as well as how to avoid or correct them.
Overuse of the Roof
Maybe the most straightforward cause of leaks is overuse of the roof: too much time spent walking on the roof. Many of the materials used in roofing are surprisingly fragile, and if you’re not careful, you may break a seal or cause a leak without realizing it. The key to avoiding this damage is to set foot on your roof as little as possible, and to use professional roofing contractors whenever repairs or maintenance are necessary, as they usually know how to avoid the most fragile areas.
Environmental Causes
Environmental causes may also be to blame. For instance, condensation in your attic at times of extreme temperature (winter and summer) can lead to mold, which needs to be treated. Likewise, at very low temperatures, ice dams can form on your roof, preventing snow melt from running off the roof. The ice and water can weigh enough to damage the roof and cause leaks. Invest in a roof rake and use it to at least remove the snow from your roof’s edges to alleviate the weight on your roof and help prevent the development of an ice dam. Also, keep your gutters clear to prevent clogged gutters, which leads to water pooling on the roof.
Damage to Other Parts of Your House
The most common cause of all is damage to the other parts of your house that connect to the roof in one way or another. A cracked chimney, caused by eroded mortar, can lead to a leaking roof where the chimney’s flashing meets the roof. Improperly installed skylights with cracks in its silicone, flashing, or the window itself can allow water into the roof itself, as can cracked booting for vents. Roof valleys that were not properly sealed at installation, were stepped on, or have simply eroded with time can all cause roof leaks, and roof shingles can be broken by high winds or extreme weather like hail. Similarly, the tar used to seal your roof’s flashing can corrode over time and the flashing will need to be replaced to prevent leakage. Most of these can be repaired by someone with some roofing experience, but amateurs or inexperienced homeowners would do well to leave these repairs to professionals.
Weatherproof Roofing is your Largo, FL roof leak repair contractor that strives to solve your emergency and home improvement roofing needs in a professional and timely manner. We offer the best and most reliable guarantees in the industry. Our phone support staff are ready for your call 24 hours a day. Why not call us right now?
Preventive Measures
Regular roof inspections are crucial to catch small leaks and address them before they become larger issues. Ensure your plumbing system is properly maintained to avoid potential water damage. Keep an eye out for missing shingles and have them replaced promptly. Make sure all roof components are installed properly and roofing nails are securely fastened. It’s also essential to have flashing around chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations properly sealed to prevent water flow. Be prepared for strong winds and extreme temperature changes, as they can cause damage to your roof if damaged shingles or flashing are left unattended. Taking these precautions will help protect your home from water damage.
