If you’re a homeowner, you undoubtedly know that some headaches come with residential maintenance. Few things, however, are as frustrating as having a leaky roof. One of the reasons this issue is so irritating is that it can be challenging to figure out what is actually causing it. In this guide, you will discover four reasons your roof might be leaking and, if one of them is the culprit, how to deal with the problem.
Remember, though; there are dozens of things that can serve as the initial catalyst for a roof leak. If your situation doesn’t seem to fit any of the circumstances that are outlined here, don’t give up. Instead, keep doing your research and let a professional take a look at your roof. He or she is likely to be able to pinpoint the problem and provide you with suggestions for how to fix the issue for the long-term.
- Your flashing is cracked – Flashing is an absolutely essential component of any roofing or deck-building job. Flashing is engineered to waterproof the areas where roofing materials and deck boards meet exterior walls. It can be made from a number of materials, including metal and rubber. Flashing is often sealed with tar, which can deteriorate over time, leaving the substance vulnerable to cracking and breaking. If your flashing isn’t doing its job properly, you will either need to have it resealed or replaced.
- You have improperly installed skylights – Skylights are an incredibly popular feature, particularly in states like North Carolina and South Carolina, where natural beauty abounds. In some cases, though, skylights aren’t installed correctly, which can lead to leaks. If, for example, the hole for a skylight is cut slightly too large or weatherstripping isn’t added, water can easily penetrate. If you suspect you have a leaky skylight, call a qualified general contractor to inspect it.
- Your shingles are missing or cracked – Even though modern asphalt shingles are rated to last for 20 to 25 years, they can still sustain damage in storms and hurricanes. They can also begin to deteriorate due to age, even if they haven’t reached the two-decade mark. Missing or cracked shingles are among the primary causes of roof leaks. If you think this could be why you’ve been dealing with leaks, call a local Carolina roofing contractor to assess your situation. You may need to have your entire roof replaced.
- You go on your roof too frequently – This might seem like a strange reason for leaks at first, but it is important to bear in mind that roofs were not really intended to be walked on frequently; they are not floors! Depending on how your home is set up, you might find yourself walking on your roof to do certain types of maintenance, to sunbathe, or even just to gaze at the night sky. Over time, regularly footsteps can damage roofing materials and result in interior leaks.
At Hatch Homes, our team is skilled at dealing with a wide variety of roofing problems, including leaks. To schedule a time for one of our experts to take a look at your roof, simply give us a call. We look forward to working on your project and repairing the leaks that have been plaguing your family!