A roof should protect you from the outside elements, but it won’t do it if it’s leaking. It’s important to find and fix the leaks as soon as possible before they cause any further damage to your home.
If left undiscovered, these leaks can cause significant damage to your home, leaving you with costly repairs.
It’s not easy to tell exactly what causes your roof to leak since water can travel outward from the leaking area. Check your roof for some of the following common causes of roof leaks.
Age of the Roof
One of the main causes of roof leaks is simply aged. As a roof ages, it starts to deteriorate and break down, making it more susceptible to leaks.
This is especially true for roofs that haven’t been properly maintained over the years. Also, roofing materials age with time and become less effective at keeping water out.
Temperature and weather changes may cause roofing materials to brittle and crack. Exposure to harsh UV rays can melt the tar used to seal shingles and cause them to loosen.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
High winds can cause shingles to become damaged or loosen and eventually fall off. If your roof is missing shingles, it’s more likely to develop leaks.
You should routinely check your roof for missing or damaged shingles and have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Clogged Gutters
Leaves, sticks, and dirt fall and get stuck in the gutters. When debris builds up, rainwater and snow won’t be able to freely drain from the roof. This can cause the gutters to sag and eventually pull away from the house.
Clogged gutters can also lead to water stains on the ceilings and walls inside your home. Clogged gutters hold water in place, which eventually seep under your shingles.
This can lead to leaks and other damage to your roof. Be sure to clean your gutters regularly to prevent this problem.
Your Valleys Aren’t Properly Sealed
Valleys are the “V” shaped areas of your roof where two slopes meet. They are one of the most important parts of your roof because they direct water off of the roof. If your valleys aren’t properly sealed, water can seep into your home and cause damage.
Properly sealing your valleys is a difficult and dangerous task that should only be performed by a professional.
If you suspect that your valleys aren’t properly sealed, contact roof repair Montreal specialists to have them inspected and repaired if necessary.
Cracked Vent Boots
The vent boots around your roof vents can crack over time, especially if they’re made of plastic. When this happens, water can seep in through the cracks and cause damage to your insulation and ceilings.
If you notice cracked vent boots on your roof, replace them yourself. This is a relatively easy and inexpensive repair that can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Improperly Installed Skylights
Skylights are a great way to let natural light into your home but can also be a major source of leaks. If your skylight is not installed correctly, it can allow water to enter your home, leading to serious damage. Ensure that your skylight is installed by a professional and properly sealed to prevent leaks.
