The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so keeping it intact is vital. Roof leaks are one of the most distressing problems for homeowners to fix.
Leaks can cause significant damage to the inner structure of your home and spike your utility bills. Understanding the causes of your roof’s leak will help you avoid any impending disasters and address the issue in time.
Read on to discover some of the most common causes of roof leaks and when to contact residential roofing repair experts.
1. Aging Roofing Material
Aging roof materials are one of the primary causes of a roof leak. Time and age can cause the roofing materials to deteriorate, affecting your roof’s integrity. Over time, roofing material may undergo wear and tear due to harsh weather and continual expansion and contraction.
An aging roof may present symptoms in a variety of ways. The temperature fluctuations cause the roofing shingles to be brittle and crack bit by bit. With time, rust and corrosion cause metal roofs to develop holes due to moisture and oxidation. Waterproofing tar cracks with constant exposure to the sun.
The cracks and rust can intensify, exposing your home to more leaks. Depending on the type of roof you have, you should talk to a qualified roofer about inspecting your roof if it is approaching the end of its life expectancy.
2. Damaged or Missing Shingles
Roofing shingles are sturdy, have a long lifespan, and won’t usually break on their own. However, a huge storm can rip shingles from the roof. Similarly, falling objects and branches can break or damage shingles on your roof. With damaged or missing shingles, your roof has one less layer of protection, which exposes your home to leaks.
Fortunately, damaged shingles are easy to spot, even for a layperson. Shingles are on the outside of a roof, and you can easily perform a visual inspection. A missing shingle will leave a differently colored patch on your roof, or you may also find the shingle in your yard. After a heavy storm, you can inspect for missing shingles and replace them if necessary. Old Line Roofing & Solar is one of the best roof storm damage experts in the area.
3. Improper Installation
Poor installation quality may also be a reason why your roof is leaking. Roof penetrations are an unavoidable part of a building design. A contractor may need to install chimneys, vent pipes, and skylights on a roof.
These penetrations break the seamless roof design creating weak spots for water entry if not done correctly. The roofer must seal chimneys and vent pipes properly. Improper seals will allow water to seep through to your home. Skylights are also a common source of leaking roofs if installed incorrectly.
Unfortunately, bad roofing jobs are prevalent, underlining the importance of working with Old Line Roofing & Solar — an experienced and trustworthy contractor.
4. Clogged Gutters
Gutters carry water away from the roof. The build-up of twigs and leaves can trap water in gutters and prevent water from flowing down. A clogged gutter causes water to seep down into your home through cracks, threatening its structural well-being. Regular cleaning of your gutters can go a long way. Clean out any debris as soon it collects.
A leaky roof can be a stressful experience. Prevention is key when it comes to roof leaks, so be sure to inspect your roof at least once a year to avoid an expensive repair job in the future. If you notice a leak, use the causes above to pinpoint the source of the problem. By identifying the origin, you can better plan the solution to your roof leak problems.
Contact Us Today!
Old Line Roofing & Solar knows high-quality roof replacement. We have been installing roofing across the Northeast for over 30 years. We have grown to become one of the largest providers of roofing services in Maryland.
If you are looking for a solar roof, we use the highest quality equipment and well-trained technicians. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help you with your solar roofing needs.
At Old Line Roofing & Solar, we value customer satisfaction and quality workmanship. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation or give us a call at 410-769-3735.