A roof leak is not just a nuisance. It can cause severe damage to your property and even lead to structural damage or death. But before you call a roofing company, you should know the most common causes of leaks.
By understanding the six most common causes of leaks, you’ll better protect yourself from a roof leak disaster.
Improperly Installed Flashing on Chimney
One of the most common causes of roof leaks is improper installation of flashing on chimneys. Improperly installed flashing can cause ice dams and gaps in your gutters and downspouts. You should always have a professional do the work, as they know how to install flashing around chimneys correctly. If you decide to try it yourself, use a builder’s level or spirit level to measure the proper incline for your flashing.
Shorts in Home Attic Vents
Another common cause of roof leaks is a short, which happens when there’s a gap between the flashing and the top of the wall. These are often caused by improper installation or damage to the flashing. Again, professional services need to examine and fix this issue.
Uncapped Drain Pipes
Uncapped drain pipes are one of the most common causes of roof leaks. Uncapped drain pipes allow water to seep into your home, which is not just a nuisance but can also cause structural damage or death.
Ice Dams
In regions where ice and snow are expected, ice dams can accumulate near an attic roof. If left undetected and not dealt with properly, they can cause significant structural damage to your home. To prevent ice dams, make sure you clean your gutters out regularly and that they have no gaps or openings.
Gaps in Gutters and Downspouts.
One of the five most common causes of roof leaks is a gap in the gutter or downspout. When there is a gap, water will pool and not drain properly. Therefore, it’s essential to have your gutters and downspouts built in such a way that allows rainwater to flow freely. When gaps are present, they allow stagnant water to accumulate and cause roof leaks.
Missing Shingles
If you ever wonder ‘can missing shingles cause a leak?’ The answer is yes. Having missing shingles is the most common cause of roof leaks. Water won’t immediately start to drip from your ceiling, but a leak can form over time and could be the source of a lot of water damage. Shoddy workmanship or improperly installed shingles are usually the culprits behind a leak.
Fixing Roof Leaks
If you suspect you have a roof leak, the first step is to find the source of the leak. You can do this by using a metal detector or a UV light. If you still cannot find the source of the leak, you can try fixing a damaged gutter or downspout if you can see any damage, or try replacing drip panels and installing new vents. If the problem hasn’t been resolved after you have attempted to fix it, it is best to call professional services to perform a roof inspection to fix the problem permanently and come out to your house for a roof leak repair.
