One of the most frustrating things about homeownership is having your roof leak unexpectedly. No one wants to have to stay on top of the weather forecast to make sure that one small drip won’t destroy your home. Significant roof leaking means an investment of time and money.
If you’re having issues with a leaking roof, various causes could be at the center of the issue. We’ve outlined the different types of leaky roofs so you can identify the problem and get your roof fixed quickly.
Age
Roofing materials deteriorate with age and become less effective at keeping the harsh weather out. Temperature fluctuations may also cause these issues with your roof and cause the materials to become brittle and continue to crack over time. Exposure to direct sunlight can melt the tar that seals shingles together.
Brick Chimneys
Cracked chimnies are a common cause of a leaking roof. While brick chimneys may seem indestructible, the mortar that binds the bricks together is nothing more than a hard-working mixture of water, sand, and cement. Exposed to the weather elements, it can erode and crumble over time. Check the mud cap on top of the chimney for deterioration and inspect the mortared joints where the chimney enters the roof. If patches are required, it is a cheap and quick fix.
Broken Shingles
Shingles are the exterior layer of the roof; therefore should be easily identifiable if there are missing shingles or are broken. If you notice any differing colored patches in your room, you have a broken shingle. The causes are high winds, and heavy rains, so they break after a heavy storm.
Clogged Gutters
Gutters are clogged with leaves and other debris that slow the water flowing off the roof, giving it time to soak through it. Gutter covers can help keep gutters clear of debris to ensure that water flows freely and quickly off the roof.
Flashing
What exactly is flashing? They are thin pieces of metal that are installed under shingles, and to the joints of your roof in order to create a water-resistant barrier. Metal roof flashing seals roof transitions where large amounts of water run down or where absorption may occur. Flashing is placed where the roof joins a dormer, where a chimney penetrates the roof and around the edges of skylights. Flashing sections may slide out of place if nails are missing, and caulk may dry and crack over time.
Skylights
Installing skylight window fixtures on your roof or ceiling will ensure your home is facilitating daylight to its fullest potential. Who doesn’t love a skylight? But hopefully, yours was fitted and installed properly. If they weren’t, leaks could sprout down the sides of poorly fitted skylights, and the rubber seal around the glass can dry out and wear, ruining the water barrier. Ensuring the skylight was installed with proper pitch. Most skylight leaks occur due to flashing issues or improper installation, not the failure of the glazing that comes with the skylight.
If your roof is leaking and you’re having trouble identifying the cause, contact us today. We have over 40 years of experience in installing and repairing all types of roofs, and would be happy to provide you with a free estimate on any roof repair in Philadelphia!
