A roof leak is a serious concern that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. If you're dealing with a leaky roof, you should reach out to a roofing contractor as soon as possible to help you isolate the source. However, there are some things that you can familiarize yourself with in advance to help you troubleshoot the leak you're dealing with. Here are a few things to know when you're facing a leaky roof that needs repair.
Common Sources of Roof Leaks
Shingle damage is a common source of leaky roofing. Whether you have cracked, broken, loose, or missing shingles, that creates a vulnerable spot where water can seep in.
Flashing that is dented, cracked, loose, or rusty can also allow water to seep past. This can create a leak in the house if you don't address it.
Caulk around the flashing and seams can also be a vulnerable spot. If the caulk comes loose, is too thin, or cracks, the seal it needs to form won't be strong enough. You'll find that water can seep in under your roof.
Finally, gutter clogs can also be a culprit. When your gutters haven't been cleaned adequately, water can soak into the debris and it won't be able to flow out the way that it's supposed to. That puts water up against the roofing seams, which can make your home vulnerable to water penetration.
Frequent Areas Where Roof Leaks Happen
Although your roof can develop a leak pretty much anywhere, there are a few areas that are far more common than others. For example, the area around any protrusions, such as the chimney, the vent pipe, and similar objects may be vulnerable because of the flashing and caulk required around these objects.
The same applies around any skylights. If your roof has any seams, like a metal roof, those seams are a vulnerability, too. Finally, you'll find that shingle roofs are more vulnerable, as are many of the metal roofs if they aren't properly sealed and cared for.
Tips For Dealing With Roof Leaks
If you have any reason to believe that your roof is leaking, you should reach out to a roof repair contractor right away. Your roofing repair contractor can isolate the precise location of the leak and patch it properly so that the problem doesn't spread or recur. Professional repair is essential for the integrity of your roof.
These are a few of the things that every roofing contractor hopes homeowners understand about roof leaks and roof damage repair. Talk with a roofing specialist today for more help.
When you have something you like inside a jar, you probably put a lid on it — right? In a way, you can think of your house in the same manner. You like and value the items inside, along with the inside of the house itself. So, it only makes sense that you would protect the interior of your home with a lid. That lid is your roof.
Keep that perspective in mind as you read this blog. Learning more about roofing will feel more interesting if you remember what a roof does: it protects the inside of the home and the people who live in it.