Causes for Roof Leaks and How to Prevent Them

While it hasn't rained here in Birmingham in quite some time, it's still important to safeguard your home or business from potential roof leaks.  If it ever does rain again, the last thing you want is a bunch of drip buckets strategically placed throughout your living room or office.  

Whether your roof is 3 years old or 30, a roof leak needs to be taken care of immediately so as to prevent further damage.  Repairing a small leak could save you a lot more money by preventing the need for a roof replacement or major remodeling job.

At Bill White Roofing and Specialty, we are your roof repair experts.  We've compiled a list of the most common causes of roof leaks, what they look like, why they occur, and what needs to be done to fix them

1. Cracked Roof Flashing

 Roof flashing are the thin pieces of metal installed around openings and joints in your roof that create a water resistant barrier.  Tar is often used to seal the flashing together, and it will corrode over time. Because the flashing is exposed to the elements it will eventually crack, leaving that area vulnerable to wind and rain.  Flashing can be easily replaced by prying up the nails used to secure it and pulling it out from under the shingles.  Place the new flashing in its place, fasten it in the same way the old piece was attached, and apply a coat of roofing sealant to the nail heads

2. Broken Shingles

Broken shingles are the easiest issue to spot on your roof.  Look for different colored patches on your roof, or look in your yard for pieces of shingles after a heavy storm.  High winds and heavy rains are usually the cause for damaged or broken shingles.  To replace a damaged shingle, pry out the row of nails that connects it to the one below it, put the new one in its place, and secure it with new nails.  If you have a large amount of damaged shingles, it is best to consult a qualified roofing contractor to determine if there is a larger issue with the roof.

3. Improper Sealing of the Valleys

A roof valley is the area where two planes join together. Because these areas are normally sloped, water can seep inside as it runs down the roof if the seams are not sealed properly.  The main reason for this type of leak is that the sealant was not applied properly to begin with, but excess rain and ice can cause the sealant to erode over time and stepping on the roof can crack the sealant.  In order to fix this type of roof leak, it is best to hire a qualified roofing contractor because of the complexity of the job.  

4. Clogged Gutters

Gutters are designed to channel water away from the roof, so when they become clogged by leaves and other debris, the water will pool up on the roof itself.  When water pools on the roof, it has a better chance of seeping through the cracks. Look for leaves or sticks poking out of the gutter when you step back and look up at your roof, or if it ever rains you will notice that water is not trickling out of the downspouts.  To fix this situation, the simple answer is to clean out your gutters.  You can also opt for guards that fit over your gutters that prevent debris from accumulating but still allow water to run freely.

5. Attic Condensation

Because your attic is the uppermost part of your home, it is prone to condensation and moisture.  Condensation occurs when the indoor and outdoor temperatures clash, especially during hot summers and cold winters.  A leak from the attic will result in mold growth and mildew, and can often be detected by a strong musty odor.  The mold must be treated first, and then proper ventilation and insulation must be installed to allow moisture to escape and to prevent large fluctuations in temperatures.

Roofs take a beating from heavy storms, strong winds, and extreme temperatures.  If proper care and maintenance is put into place, a roof will keep you safe and dry for many years.  Review this list of common causes for roof leaks and be sure to add these areas to your maintenance plan so you can avoid major damage to your roof and home.  As an experienced roofer in Birmingham, Bill White Roofing and Specialty will be glad to assist you with inspecting and maintaining all of your roofing elements.