Warning Signs of a Roof Leak You Shouldn’t Ignore
Nothing is more frustrating than a leaky roof. Whether you own a home or a business, you want to protect it from the outside elements. Identifying telltale signs of a roof leak can help homeowners and commercial building owners avoid a problem before it mushrooms out of control. Foreshadowing indications always precede a leaky roof.
8 Warning Signs Of A Roof Leak
Generally, a roof leak does not spring out of nowhere. Some indications come months or years in advance. Unfortunately, many homeowners and businesses may ignore common signs of a damaged roof until it is “too late.” Regardless, recognizing clues to a compromised roof and utilizing preventative measures may prove helpful in avoiding far more consequential damage to your home or building’s roof, or interior.
1. Clogged Gutters Or Downspouts
A correctly functioning gutter system allows water to channel off the roof safely. However, water can no longer flow freely off the roof when a gutter becomes debris-filled.
2. Damaged Plumbing Vent Boots
A plumbing vent boot is a preformed ring that forms a watertight seal around the pipe vent. When it fails, moisture intrusion often results.
3. Dented, Loose, Or Damaged Flashing
Flashing serves a crucial function in a roof’s performance. When flashing suffers damage, it provides an open invitation for moisture intrusion through the roof’s outer surface.
4. Inadequate Roof Ventilation
Poor attic ventilation leads to excess heat accumulation at the roof level, including the outer layer. Consequently, roofing materials experience degradation and prematurely age.
5. Loose, Missing, Or Curled Shingles
A damaged or absent shingle provides a wide-open door to a roof leak. The underlying roofing layers cannot face moisture exposure without significant adverse consequences.
6. Rotting Of Roof Decking Or Sublayers
Wood components under the outer roofing surface offer strength for the roof. Unfortunately, when water slips through the roofing material, it can lead to wood rot, compromising the integrity of the roof.
7. Storm Or Hail Damage
A violent storm can wreak havoc on a roof. Tree limbs, hailstones, and debris may damage roofing components, eventually allowing water to penetrate the outer surface.
8. Vegetative Or Fungi Growth
Roofing systems are not designed to serve as gardens. However, when algae, moss, or lichen form on a roof, the material degrades, making the roof more susceptible to leaks.
8 Steps To Avoid A Roof Leak
Today, homeowners and business owners have many affordable, common-sense solutions to reduce or eliminate roof leaks. Each alternative provides a reasonable measure to protect a roof from moisture intrusion. Employing a variety of practical options diminishes the possibility of a far-costlier roof leak that might not be noticed by the homeowner or property manager for months or, in some cases, years.
1. Add Waterproof Barriers To Roof System
One effective way to reduce or prevent a roof leak is to install waterproof barriers in various areas susceptible to moisture intrusion, including chimneys, eaves, skylights, and vents.
2. Address Damaged Or Missing Shingles
Take action when you observe a missing shingle or a shingle needing repair. Don’t deliberate or delay. Asphalt shingles are designed to shed water away from the roof swiftly and effectively.
3. Attach Drip Edges To The Roof
Drip edges serve a valuable purpose in averting a roof leak. They help prevent a roof deck from rotting or prematurely rotting by stopping water infiltration under the roof’s outer layer.
4. Clean Gutters Or Add Gutter Guards
When gutters or downspouts become clogged, water cannot channel away from the roof. Instead, it becomes backed up and could absorb through the roof layers.
5. Ensure Sufficient Attic Ventilation
An inadequately ventilated attic allows excess heat buildup, resulting in an environment susceptible to accelerated roof degradation due to elevated temperatures and humidity.
6. Install Hip And Ridge Cap Shingles
These shingles are specifically designed to protect areas where two roof faces join. They protect the joint from moisture intrusion. Installing them is an excellent preventative step.
7. Perform A Periodic Roof Inspection
Reputable roofing professionals recommend an inspection once or twice annually. That way, they can assess the roof’s condition to determine if any areas warrant closer analysis or repair.
8. Repair Or Replace Compromised Flashing
Compromised flashing is one of the primary causes of roof leaks. Unfortunately, many home and business owners may not realize that flashings should be repaired or replaced when damaged.
Hiring A Roof Leak Prevention Specialist
If you own a commercial business or home in Richmond, VA, or Norfolk, VA, don’t risk an unnecessary roof leak. Take preventative measures now! At Stevens Roofing, we identify warning signs that are often cleverly disguised and difficult to trace. If ignored, your roof will face impending damage in the not-too-distant future. We also provide sensible solutions that proactively address potential problems.
Contact Stevens Roofing today to schedule an appointment to inspect your roof, receive a free, no-obligation estimate, or learn more about our residential or commercial roofing services. We look forward to hearing from you!
