A leaking roof causes more trouble than an annoying “drip drop” from your ceiling; it can damage your attic insulation and roof deck and lead to mold and mildew growth and reduced energy efficiency. Roof leaks can be due several causes, all of which will require the immediate assistance of a professional roofing contractor. Here are some common roof leak culprits:
1. Loose, Cracked or Rotting Shingles: If your roof is 20 to 30 years old, you may see signs of aging such as cracking or rotting. In some cases, the shingles may come loose and fall to the ground. A weakened outer layer will expose the underlayment; continued exposure to wind and sun can wear the layers away and eventually cause leaks to form. If your roof is in such a condition, you need to have it inspected. Your roof may only need repairs, which will definitely cost less, and, if properly done, can extend your roof’s life for a few years. This is enough time to prepare for a scheduled roof replacement.
2. Roofing Nails Backing Out: Apart from roofing shingles, roofing nails can sometimes back out. This leaves small holes that water can easily penetrate, especially when it’s close to the roof’s edge where wind-driven rain can enter. These little holes are usually unnoticeable to the untrained eye, but not when you have your roof inspected by professional roofers. Catching this issue early helps you prevent bigger repair expenses or even a premature roof replacement.
3. Damaged or Dislodged Flashing: Flashing is a piece of metal that protects valleys and any spot where the roof meets a vertical surface, such as walls and dormers. If damaged or dislodged by strong winds, this could leave the breaks in the roof exposed, making it easy for rainwater to get in. Timely repairs can help mitigate leaks caused by flashing issues.
4. Cracked Rubber Boots: Plumbing vents and anything that protrudes from the roof require a rubber “boot,” which works like flashing by protecting the area where it meets the roof. Continued exposure to outside conditions will eventually crack the rubber boot, meaning it needs to be replaced. Regular maintenance and timely repairs help spot these problems and prevent roof leaks.
If you need help please give us a call on 0115 736 5995, or email [email protected] or get more info from our website https://www.qualityroofingnottingham.co.uk
Here are some of the most asked questions about roof leaks……
- STOP THE WATER DAMAGE. Once you discover an active leak in your roof, the first thing to do is minimize the water damage as much as possible. …
- CONTAIN THE WATER. …
- REMOVE THE WATER. …
- CALL YOUR INSURANCE AGENT. …
- FIX THAT LEAKY ROOF. …
- PREVENT FUTURE ROOF LEAKS.
- There’s a Water Stain. A water stain may look like a large puddle on the ceiling, often ringed with brown. …
- Sometimes There’s a Drip. …
- There Are Spots on Your Exterior Walls. …
- Your Walls Are Growing. …
- You See Missing Shingles or See Debris In Your Downspouts.
- Consider Financing the Repair Costs. Finding the cash to pay for roof repair upfront can be impossible. …
- Apply for a Grant. …
- Use Your Network. …
- Refinance. …
- Start Saving Up. …
- Conclusion.
- Check for roof damage above water marks on the ceiling. If you haven’t already tracked down the leak, trace the water damage inside your home. …
- Inspect your roof for widespread wear and tear. …
- Straighten and reattach curled shingles. …
- Repair a clean crack with roof sealant. …
- Replace broken or missing shingles.
- Get A Regular Roof Inspection. The best advice for homeowners is to have your roof inspected by a professional on a regular basis. …
- Pay Attention To Roof Flashings. …
- Don’t Block Ventilation. …
- Maintain Gutters And Downspouts. …
- Keep Trees And Bushes Away From Your Home. …
- Immediately Replace Missing or Torn Shingles.
- Go into the attic, if you have access, and clear insulation off the wet ceiling drywall. …
- Follow the leak back to the point at which it enters the roof. …
- Make a temporary patch with roofing tar and a piece of shingle or plywood.
How much does it cost to repair a roof?