31 Oct Common Causes of Roof Leaks

Roof leaks can cause major damage if not detected early and addressed promptly. The problem is that water travels away from a leak, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause and location. In this post, Universal Roof and Contracting shares a look at some of the most common causes of leaks and how you can prevent them.

Age

Roofing materials deteriorate with age and inevitably fail to keep water out. Temperature and weather conditions make them brittle and cause them to crack over time. Exposure to direct sunlight can melt the tar that seals shingles together. This can lead to you having to undergo unscheduled shingle roof repair procedures.

Roof Vent Degradation

Roof penetrations must be well sealed to prevent leaks. It’s crucial to routinely inspect the gaskets around vent pipes for cracks or gaps, and check for missing nails. Plastic vents may crack after years of exposure to the weather and cause bothersome leaks in the process.

Debris Accumulation

Debris like twigs, leaves or pine needles trap water against the roof and allow it to seep inside. It’s important to keep the roof clear to permit water runoff. Your tile roof repair experts encourage having overhanging tree branches trimmed to keep your roof debris-free.

Shallow Slopes

If the roof slope is too shallow, wind can lift up shingles and drive rain underneath. The International Building Code sets the roof slope for asphalt shingles at least 2:12. That’s a 2-inch vertical rise over a 12-inch horizontal travel. A slope between 2:12 and 4:12 needs a double layer of underlayment. Ensure that your roofing materials match the roof pitch and are well installed.

Flashing Issues

Metal roof flashing seals roof transitions where water runs down or absorption occurs. Flashing is set where the roof joins a dormer, a chimney and skylights. Flashing sections may slide out of place if nails are missing, and caulk may dry and crack over time. This can cause water damage, leading to costly roof replacement procedures.

Universal Roof and Contracting can help you prevent and deal with roof leaks. You can depend on us to serve you in Orlando, FL, and other nearby areas. To schedule a free inspection and estimate, call (407) 278-2686.