When it comes to home maintenance, one of the most significant aspects to consider is your roof. Your residential roof serves a vital function, protecting the home beneath it from the elements. And even a single misplaced shingle or a slight gap in the flashing can provide moisture the opportunity it needs to wreak havoc on your home in the form of a residential roof leak.
If you notice signs of a potential roof leak, you’ll want to call the ABC Roofing professionals immediately. Unfortunately, when you see water intrusion, there’s usually a material or component failure you don’t see. Here are six more prevalent causes of residential roof leaks, so you can better prepare and make roofing improvements before marginal leaks become major catastrophes.
1. An Aging Roof
If your residential roof is showing its age, it can also lead to roof leaks. As roofing materials break down over time and from the elements, your risk of residential roof leaks increases. Be mindful of how old your roof is, including all layers your roof might have. The average shingle or composition roof can typically last for 20 years. But mother nature can speed up the aging process and deteriorate roofing materials much faster. Low hanging branches from nearby trees and the occasional high wind conditions in Florida can shave years off your roof’s lifespan.
2. Cracked Flashing and Damaged Roof Vents
Water can be a tricky thing. It’s smart and always seeks a path of least resistance. So, when you have cracks in your flashing or damage to roof vents, water knows and will quickly find its way to those cracks, following a path right into your house. Any damage to flashing, installment, or material should be addressed for repairs. And it’s worth inspecting your flashings routinely since those materials are more susceptible to damage.
3. Chimney Damage
If your home features a chimney, working or not, you have a unique opportunity for water to find its way in from the roof. Seals must be maintained. Brick and mortar will need to be replaced over time. And when you bring in a roofing contractor, you’ll have peace of mind in spotting those failing chimney elements before roof leaks happen.
4. Clogged Gutters
Here’s an easy fix you can easily maintain f with a seasonal professional. Clogged gutters will conceal rust and gutter damage. Because gutters primarily function as a method for channeling water away from your home, clogged gutters result in water rerouting onto the roof and pooling until it can find a way into the structure. Keep your gutters free of debris; the water will be funneled away from your roof and home.
5. Missing or Displaced Shingles
A strong wind or a blowing branch could dislodge a shingle. One breach in your shingled layers presents a weakness. And yes, you guessed it, water will find it. Keep an eye on your shingles and their placement. If you spot any anomalies, contact the roofing specialist. Replacing a shingle or two will be far less costly than a roof leak.
6. Attic Moisture and Condensation
Your roof could be experiencing damage from the inside in the form of attic moisture or condensation. If your ventilation dumps moisturized air into your attic or other factors contribute to condensation, the main components of your roof could be at risk. The degrading effects of potential fungal growth, pests, or ongoing moisture intrusion to trusses and rafters will result in sagging and rotting of wood components.
Trust The Experts At ABC Roofing
If you’re experiencing a residential roof leak, one of these common causes could be the culprit. And your next step is to call in a professional for repairs. Contact your trusted roofing partner to repair those leaks now and prevent future leaks with proper maintenance ongoing. No matter what roofing situation you’re under, we will work hard to get on top of it!
