We may receive a small commission for clicks or purchases made through our website or emails. This helps us fund the finds we share at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!
When your roof leaks, you need to repair it as soon as possible. The longer you leave it, the more damage it could cause to your home. It might start off as an annoying drip or a damp patch, but it could soon create a lot of structural damage. There are some key causes of roof leaks, which can be helpful for you to be aware of. Carrying out roof work on your own isn’t generally a good idea, but it can help if you are able to tell what the problem is and perhaps even do some minor repairs.
Problems with the Flashing
There are slim pieces of metal installed under the shingles and on the joints of your roof, and that’s the flashing. The purpose of the flashing is to help create a water-resistant barrier and prevent moisture from getting in. Flashing needs to be firmly attached and be covered, and it can be exposed over time. You might sometimes need to install new flashing and use flashing sealant to reinforce it. The first thing to do is locate where the leak is and remove any cracked segments of flashing, laying new flashing in the same pattern. It is always best to opt for a professional service for complete peace of mind.
Broken Shingles
Broken shingles can be pretty easy to spot. If you look up at your roof, you might notice that they have cracked or even that there are missing shingles. If you can’t see that well, a pair of binoculars can help you to get a better look (or even the zoom on your camera). You might also find shingles on the ground, especially after a heavy storm. When you have broken shingles, you need to replace them. This involves removing the nails holding the shingle in place, putting a new shingle in, and securing it with new nails.
Valleys Not Sealed
Where two parts of your roof come together, water can get in if it’s not sealed properly. These areas are usually sloped so rainwater can enter your home as it runs down the roof if the valleys aren’t sealed. The sealing might not have been carried out properly when the roof was first installed, but it can also become damaged. Fixing this problem should definitely be carried out by a professional roofer, as it’s a complicated job. It will require a new leak barrier, which will prevent water from entering the roof.
Cracked Vent Booting
Roof vents are installed to help release excess moisture from your home. Unfortunately, they can sometimes let moisture into your home if the flashing around the vent is broken. The vent will often have flashing around the opening and a rubber boot over the area where the pipe exits the roof. To repair roof leaks, it’s necessary to replace this rubber boot and seal it into place.
If you are experienced with DIY, you might attempt some roofing jobs yourself. However, it’s always best to have a professional do the work if you are unsure or don’t have the equipment to do it safely.
Photo by Mike Scaturo on Unsplash
