Common Causes of Roof Leaks

Scan the Roof for any Leaks 

A roof leak is a common cause of worry for many homeowners. It is a challenging situation when after spending so much of time, effort and money you find that the roof is falling apart.

You have to take the smallest drip seriously. It is important you take note of the slightest red flag at its nascent stage says Jeff from Oxford Roofing. You need to locate the source of the leak which is even more challenging than the solution. The cause of the leak will help you decide if the roof needs a simple repair or re-roof. You need to understand the different causes of roof leaks so you can decide upon the right solution.

Broken Shingles and Faulty Skylights

Broken or missing shingles can cause roof leaks. Different shades of patches on your roof indicate missing singles. One another way to know if there are broken shingles after a storm is when you find broken shingle pieces throughout the storm.

Condensation and Age of the Roof

The attic is surrounded by outside and inside temperature. Due to this situation, condensation can form leading to moisture. If you notice a mold smell from the attic, it indicates that there has been water infiltration.

You must look for any mold growth and treat it right away. You need to fix a ventilation fan for the attic to ensure airflow as this will bring down the difference in temperature. Once in a while check if the roof vents are clear and are free of any blocks. You must also isolate the attic which will help in decreasing the temperature fluctuation. We asked Lexington Roofing these questions.

commercial roof leaks

The roofing material will get worn out after as it ages. This is due to fluctuations in temperatures as season changes that cause expansion and contraction.

The roof is directly exposed to direct sunlight and harsh rays that can easily melt the tar that holds shingles together. The roof will become brittle and easily cracks causing leaks during rains. Worn out asphalt shingles and other roofing materials will have to be completely replaced.

Flashing and Holes

A thin metal strip that is installed in areas to avoid leaks around the roof is called flashing. The flashing must be sealed properly to avoid water intrusion. Caulking and cementing may offer temporary solutions.

It is better to replace old flashing with new ones if you find that it is giving way to water leaks. Heavy storms and animals can cause holes in the roof that causes leaks. Misplaced roofing nails can also cause holes. Such holes may go unnoticed unless it gets severe. It is good to inspect the roof once in a while to get such issues fixed immediately.