If you have recently inspected your roof for damage and found that you are continuously suffering from roof leaks, it can be helpful to be able to diagnose the causes to help find a long-term solution. External factors such as extreme weather can put pressure on your roof and cause damage to your roof shingles, eventually causing problems with water leaks. These leaks may become more prominent and obvious during the winter months as your roof is placed under more pressure. In this article, we have shared a list of the most common causes of roof leaks in Delaware and what to look out for.
Cracked or Broken Shingles
Water leaks can be caused due to damage to the shingles that are placed on your roof. If your roof shingles are cracked or broken, this can allow a hole where moisture and water can seep through. Missing shingles can also cause damage to your roof and allow water leaks to form. Extreme weather and general aging are the main causes behind your shingles cracking, breaking, or becoming loose. Checking on your roof regularly to inspect your shingles can help you catch the early signs of damage, meaning that replacements and repairs can be made quickly before a leak begins.
Faulty Flashing
When referring to roof flashing we are referring to the thin metal sheeting installed under the shingles which creates a water-resistant barrier. If this layer between your shingles and your roof has faults or is worn, then this may be the cause of your water leaks. The flashing being worn and torn is one of the biggest causes of water leaks on your roof as over time the flashing will be damaged by extreme weather such as rain and wind. The flashing and tar used to seal together the flashing can start to corrode over time too. If there is a fault with your flashing it is most likely just normal wear and tear but in the rare occasion it is not, you could have faults with your flashing if it has not been installed properly.
Ice Dams
One way to tell if your roof has been caused by ice dams is if the problem started within the winter months. It is more common for roof leaks in the winter to be caused by issues like ice dams rather than average wear and tear as the weather during the winter months is more extreme and will flare up. Water and moisture will creep into any small gap and then harden when the temperature decreases, potentially cracking shingles and other roofing materials. Ice dams collect at the edges of your roof and will often cause leaks that will build up slowly.
Clogged Gutters and Debris
Gutters are an important part of your roof and are often not cared for as they should. The gutters around your roof are used to collect excess water and transport it away from the roof, meaning the water will not be sitting on the roof and causing damage and potential leakage. If your gutters are clogged and filled with debris, leaves, and broken bits of trees, the gutters will not function properly and then clog up the system, meaning that water will be gathering on your roof. When water is sitting on your roof for a long amount of time, there is the risk that it will seep under the shingles and cause a water leak. If your water leaks are caused by your gutters, this is one of the easiest problems to solve. Make sure that you keep an eye on your gutters and clean them out once a year.
Holes In Your Roof
One of the most obvious causes of roof water leaks is holes in your roof. The hole can be caused by small gaps and will need repairing quickly before the water leaks damage your home. It is wise to always check the area around where your TV satellite or antenna is to check there are no other small holes.
Cracked Roof Vents
It is important to have roof vents as part of the ventilation system for your home as the roof vents allow the air to enter and exit from attic spaces and reduce condensation. If condensation starts to form or moisture builds up, this can be a cause of roof leaks. Roof leaks are commonly caused by faulty or cracked roof vents as the flashing which is used to seal the equipment can break and cause small areas where moisture can build up. The rubber boot used for your roof vent can be easily replaced and therefore if you have issues with your roof vent causing leaks, this is a very fixable problem.
Lifespan
Every roof has an expected lifespan and if your roof has exceeded that lifespan, your roof may be overly worn and therefore need replacing. If your roof has exceeded its lifespan, the materials may be worn and slowly break down. If you are finding that water leaks are happening across a wide stretch of your roof, it may be time to replace your roof using Delaware roofers.
Neglected Maintenance
If your roof has had damage in the past and it has not been tended to, what would have started out to be a simple repair may have grown into a bigger issue over time. This is often how leaks occur as small issues like a loose shingle have not been tended to due to neglected maintenance. To make sure this does not occur, regularly check your roof and inspect it for any issues.
How RGB Construction Can Help
At RGB Construction we have a team of professionals that will be able to talk to you about your query and point you in the best direction based on your personal circumstances. At RGB Construction, our dependable team has the knowledge and experience you need to get your roof in tip-top shape. We clean gutters, repair damage, and much more. Plus, if we spot any additional trouble areas, we will let you know and provide solutions. Call us today to schedule your free consultation or an appointment at 856-264-9093.
