The roof on your home is designed to keep outdoor elements, such as rain and leaves, out of your home. However, certain things can happen to your roof that can cause it to leak. When your roof is leaking, you will need to repair the damage to ensure water stays out in the future. However, learning why roofs leak can help you to prevent roof leaks from ever occurring in the first place. Here are a few of the most common reasons why a roof may leak.
Age
One of the top reasons why roofs may leak is due to their age. Older roofs that are nearing the end of their lifespan are more likely to leak than roofs that are newer and well within their lifespan. Roofs that are at the end of their lifespan should be replaced to prevent damage.
Broken or Damaged Vents or Flashing
Damaged or broken vents or flashing can cause water to seep in and lead to leaks. Vents are commonly used to allow for ventilation and air flow in your home while flashing is used to cover up small gaps between your vents and chimney and your roofing materials. If either of these are broken or damaged, water can seep in through these items and make their way into your home.
Clogged or Backed Up Gutters
It is important that you clean your gutters regularly. Gutters allow water to fall from the roof and be guided away from the home. If your gutters are clogged or backed up, water may not flow through the gutters as they should. This can cause water to sit on your roof or your eaves. Over time, this can lead to water damage and rot, which can lead to leaks.
Holes in the Roof
Another common cause of leaks in a roof are holes. Most people assume that they would see a hole in their roof, but often times, these holes are relatively small. A bird or other pest may have clawed, nibbled or pecked away at the roof, causing a hole. Hail damage can lead to holes. And fireworks that fall on your roof can cause small holes.
It is important that you clean your gutters regularly. Gutters allow water to fall from the roof and be guided away from the home. If your gutters are clogged or backed up, water may not flow through the gutters as they should. This can cause water to sit on your roof or your eaves.
Missing or Broken Shingles
The final common cause of roof leaks is missing or broken shingles. Shingles may be missing if strong wind gusts blow the shingle off. They can be damaged due to strong wind or due to debris that hits the shingle, such as flying sticks or a tree rubbing over the shingles. Missing or broken shingles do not protect that portion of the roof, which causes the potential for roof leaks.
Having your residential roof inspected once a year, and as needed following large storms or if damage is suspected, is the best way to catch damage that can lead to your roof leaking. Here at Rosie’s Roofing & Restoration, a trusted roofing company in Atlanta are committed to helping homeowners in the greater Atlanta, Georgia area with all of their roofing needs, including annual roof inspections and repairing roof damage. Call us now to schedule an appointment with us to have your roof inspected.
