We all love our homes. And why not? It is where we find comfort and create memories with our family and friends.
Most people can build a house only once in their lifetime. Therefore, they invest their time and money in its maintenance.
Undoubtedly, every part of a house is important. However, the roof is something that needs more attention. After all, it is the first line of defense against dust, dirt, rain, and harsh sun.
Roof leaks are a primary problem in regions with heavy rain and tropical climates.
Are you also struggling with roof leakage? This post is going to be extremely helpful for you. It provides in-depth knowledge of roof leakage and its solutions.
Let us start.
Early Signs of Roof Leaks
Several homeowners do not realize that untreated roof leaks can cause structural damage. Even prolonged leakage can collapse the ceiling.
During the rainy season, water can seep into electrical components and cause malfunction and shock. So before a minor ceiling leak becomes a colossal trouble, you better get it fixed.
Finding roof leaks is not easy. If the leakage is minor under the roof structure, you cannot detect it without seeking professional help.
A few signs that can help you determine leakage in your roof include:
Water Stain on Ceiling
Brown or yellow water stains on your ceiling also indicate leakage on the roof. Check if these stains are running down through walls from the ceiling.
Cracked Paint
Peeled paint also indicates roof leaks. Find if the paint on your ceiling is falling off. It happens when a ceiling gets exposed to moisture repeatedly.
Fungus Growth
We all know that mold and other fungi grow best in a humid environment. Check if your roof tiles have greenish fungus. If you find so, there is likely a leakage.
Musty Atmosphere
Standing water and fungus have a peculiar odor. Can you smell something like that in a particular area of your house? It can be a sign of roof leakage.
Broken/Cracked Shingles
You can also check your roof for cracked tiles or roofing material. Missing or damaged shingles on your roof will let the rain run into your home.
What are The Reasons for Roof Leaks?
From cracks on the roof to plumbing faults, roof leakage can have various causes.
Below, we have mentioned a few primary reasons for ceiling leaks.
Harsh Climate
The climate of your region hits your roof more than anything else. Do you reside in a province that receives heavy rain and snow? If yes, the roof of your house requires extra care.
Continuous exposure to rainwater and snow degrades the roof. It affects the overall durability of your roofing material.
During the snowfall, accumulated snow on the roof can block the drainage system, resulting in water penetration.
UV rays also impact roof slates. The harsh sun can ruin the exterior of your roof.
The storm also damages your roof. Heavy rain with hails can crack roofing material.
The gusty wind blocks the roof gutter with leaves and other debris. If not cleared, your roof will have to bear an additional water load during the rain.
Poorly Installed Roof
In most cases, improper roof installation is the cause of the leakage. Even if the one slate is misplaced, water may enter.
Sometimes, roof mechanics hammer nails into shingles incorrectly. If nails are not deep inside the roof, they can catch moisture.
Generally, it happens when roofers are not well-trained and experienced.
The Age of Your Roof
As the roofing material ages, its protective layer wears out. With constant exposure to rain and sunshine, the roof deteriorates and starts leaking.
Therefore, provide your roof with on-time maintenance and waterproofing solutions.
Faulty Flashing
Sometimes, it is a damaged flashing causing roof leaks. Flashing is a thin sheet of metal material that protects the roof joints.
A roofing company installs them on vents, chimneys, and roof surfaces.
If there is a crack on the flashing, moisture will penetrate.
Roof Leak Repairs: How Do Professionals Do That?
Repair for roof leaks is complicated. For that reason, you should hire professionals who can deal with it.
Look for a highly experienced roofing solution company that offers the holistic process of roof leak repairs.
It must include the appropriate inspection of the roof and repair or replacement of damaged roofing material.
Make sure the company does the proper sealing of newly installed material.
The entire procedure must be completed by the final inspection.
Let us learn the entire roof leakage repair process in detail.
Source of Roof Leaks: Identification
There can be various reasons behind roof leaks. Hence, an extensive roof inspection is required.
Roof Inspectors generally begin roof inspections from the inside. They examine the ceiling very closely. It helps them see water damage signs.
In addition to this, they also look for peeled wallpapers or paints.
If dampness or water interruption is seen from the inside, they check the same area from the outside. They inspect the roof surface for apparent damage.
Professionals have different instruments and techniques to identify even a small leak in the roof.
Popular Roof Areas Susceptible To Leakage
Though any part of a roof may leak, chimneys, roof valleys, shingles, flashing, and vents are more prone to leakage. A roofing repair expert pays more attention to these places.
Ways to Fix Roof Leaks of Different Types
After identifying the root cause, roofers make plans for roof repair according to the customer’s budget.
Damaged Roof
If shingles are slightly damaged, roofers repair them using a special sealant. However, if multiple roof tiles are affected, they will replace them.
When you work with an experienced roofing company, it chooses a compatible roofing material for the replacement. Their experts ensure that the new roofing material perfectly matches the existing one.
During the roof repair, homeowners must check that the finishing of the new roof is water-resistant.
To prevent water leakage in the future, your roofing company can also suggest complete roof waterproofing.
Leakage in Chimney
The chimney can leak for various reasons. If the leakage is around the chimney area, experts will try to find the potential causes.
First, they check the cap and other exterior parts of a chimney. If they can find fault with them, they will replace them.
In some cases, leakage occurs in chimney flashing. It intersects the roof with the chimney. If the sealant around the flashing has come out, they will reseal it.
On the contrary, if the base of the chimney is causing leakage, they prefer to replace the shingles.
Leakage At the Intersection of Two Roof slopes
This v-shaped area is known as the valley of a roof. It forms when two facets meet at a slope.
If roofers find leakage in the valley area, they will remove slate tiles from its surroundings.
There might be impaired decking beneath it. If they find that, they will replace it with a new one.
For extra safety against leakage, they can also install valley flashing in the middle of roof sections.
Faulty Roof Boots
All pipe boots need replacement after a period. Whether they are plastic, copper, or synthetic rubber, they corrode in extreme temperatures.
Rainwater from damaged or cracked pipe boots can enter inside the roof.
Depending on the condition of the boots, professionals can either replace them or place collars over them.
Leakage in the Roof Vent
Leakage can happen in the vent due to poor installation. Additionally, if it has cracks, water can drip through it. Only expert roofers can find such types of minor faults.
They can look for cracks and missing nut bolts. Based on the issue, they will provide you with a complete solution.
Roof Leak Repair Cost Estimation
The intensity of roof damage, the type of repair required, and the reputation of a roofing company. All these aspects can affect repair costs significantly.
The market demand also influences the cost of roof repair. For example, if you need service in the rainy season, it could be more expensive.
To learn the exact expense, you can contact First Class Roofing. Our professionals will inspect the roof and give you a quote based on the problem.
At First Class Roofing, we also provide emergency fixes for roof leaks. During the crisis, it can be challenging to cover up the damaged roof and protect belongings.
Don’t worry. Our professionals are here to assist you with emergency roofing services.
Final Thoughts
If not treated in time, roof leaks can cause severe damage to your property and lower its value.
We hope this blog makes you familiar with all the possible reasons for roof leaks and their solutions.
If you notice any sign of roof leakage, call a professional before the situation becomes worse.