Causes of Leaky Roofs

Autumn is the time of year when problems around the home tend to reveal themselves. Rainy, blustery days may find homeowners dodging water dripping from their roofs into their homes. If you have ignored the tiny signs of roof problems such as water stains on the ceiling, the time has come to address your leaky roof head-on.

It is an excellent idea to have your roof inspected annually. We suggest early fall after the hot summer days have passed and before inclement weather sets in. However, if you wake up to dripping water, there are a number of potential reasons for the leak. What follows is a list of the most common causes of a leaky roof.

Deteriorating ventilation. Many climate issues can instigate trapped condensation that will result in a roof disintegrating from the inside. A roof needs to ‘breathe’. Besides causing the roof to break down from the inside of the home, it can also generate mold which is a health hazard for occupants.

Drainage issues. One of the most obvious causes of a leaky roof are problems with the gutters or soffit. It is important to conduct a visual assessment of your drains several times a year – particularly after a weather incident. If your gutters are not draining properly then water can build up and cause a leak. Keep the gutters clear of debris. Even if you have installed the latest screen design on your gutters you still need to maintain them.

Shingles and granules. Roofs are generally developed by overlapping successive layers of typically square or rectangular shingles coated in a material that causes rain, snow, or sleet to slide down and away from the roof. However, if a weather event is serious enough it can damage the shingles or strip away the granules, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks.

Opportunities for roof penetration. Anywhere there are joints or additions to the roof are opportunities for leaks. These include skylights, vents, chimneys, etc. Be sure to check these regularly for signs of deterioration and leaks.

Finally, two other causes of leaks include ‘roof membrane’ deterioration and ‘flashing’. You should contact a roofing professional to assess the potential for leaks from these issues. Contact the professionals at Macbeth Exteriors. Our goal is to assist you in keeping your roof leak free.