If you ever find that your roof is leaking, it’s important to know what’s causing it. There are a few different things that might cause a roof to leak. In this blog post, we’ll go over five of these things so you’re prepared if your roof starts leaking – or even better, so you can keep your roof from ever starting to leak in the first place!
Signs of a Leaky Roof
- You notice water stains on your ceilings or walls.
- The basement floor becomes wet and stays damp for days at a time.
- A musty odor in the house.
- Mold and mildew on walls, ceilings, or surfaces near living quarters.
Shingle Wear
Roofs can leak due to shingle wear. This is a problem that typically affects older roofs. So if you have an old roof and are noticing signs of leakage it might be time for a roofing contractor assessment or repair work.
What does shingle wear look like? You might notice a fading color in the shingles. Or you might notice a shift in the roof’s pitch. The roof surface may look uneven or may have ridges formed by missing shingles, which is also known as “shingle buckling.”
Roof Sealant Leaks
One of the biggest causes for leaking roofs that you might not have thought of is roof sealant leaks. Roof sealants are organic substances that adhere to the roof surface, and they help prevent water from penetrating into your home. But over time these seals can wear off or crack which might cause a leak in your roofing system.
Cracked Flashing
Another thing that can cause leaks is cracked flashing. This type of leak is more common in homes with roof valleys or slopes steeper than four to 12 inches per foot. The problem here is that the metal flashing may get damaged over time from natural wear and tear.
Clogged Gutters
Keeping your gutters and downspouts clean will keep water flowing away from your roof and home. If a clog occurs, water will back up, resulting in a potential roof leak.
Pro Tip: Putting gutter guards on the edge of your gutters can help stop debris from getting inside them which can lead to clogs. And you’ll need to clear them much less frequently.
Ice Dam Build Up
Maryland’s winter weather can be hazardous. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms when the water from melting snow cannot drain off the roof. Your roof isn’t designed to handle that much constant weight. So it could damage your shingles, and eventually leak.
The Importance of Regular Roof Maintenance
Roofs are one of the most important parts of your home. They protect you from the elements and keep your family safe. Regularly cleaning your roof is an easy way to help prevent damage that leads to leaks, which can be costly and dangerous for both you and your family.
Soft washing roofs is a great way to clean them without damaging them or using harsh chemicals that could harm plants or animals in the area. It’s also environmentally friendly!
Of course, one major way to prevent leaks is proper roof installation. Check out our next blog to find out how you can choose the right roofing company for your home.