Your roof is one of the most valuable parts of your home. Having a well-maintained, efficient, and durable roof protects you and your family from the worst of Mother Nature’s temperaments.
One of the most frustrating and dangerous things that can happen is when your roof leaks. Running around for a drip bucket whenever it rains is a pain—but it’s more than just a stressful and tiring activity. A leaky roof means significantly and steadily growing damage that can be difficult and expensive to repair in the long run.
Read on for the most common causes of roof leaks and how to avoid them:
1. Broken Shingles
Extreme weather conditions can wreak havoc on even the sturdiest of roof shingles. High winds and heavy rains can crack or drag away entire portions of your roof. They don’t always land conveniently in your yard, either—you have to inspect your roof after every storm to make sure that there aren’t any uneven patches that indicate broken or missing shingles.
How to avoid them: Unfortunately, there’s no way to avoid broken shingles, especially if you live in an area that regularly experiences heavy storms and strong winds. Just remember to keep a close eye on your shingle pattern so you can call in repair services as soon as possible.
2. Clogged Gutters
Your gutters are there to drain water away from the roof whenever it rains. If your gutters are clogged with dried leaves, tree branches, or other debris, water will gather on your roof whenever it rains especially hard. These puddles of water will find every available nook and cranny to get inside your home.
How to avoid them: Cleaning your gutters regularly ensures that all rainwater flows from your roof and down through your downspouts. You have to make this a habit and be strict about it, especially during autumn when hundreds of leaves fall on your gutters every day. If you don’t have a high enough ladder or you’re too scared to do it yourself, residential roofing contractors will be happy to maintain your gutters for you.
3. Cracked Flashing
Roof flashing is a sheet of aluminum installed underneath your roof structure. This is meant to be a barrier that will keep water away from the inside of your house. If your flashing is cracked, exposed, or damaged in any way, water can very easily flow right through it.
How to avoid it: Your roof flashing can crack because of wear and tear over time. If you nail anything to your roof, the nails may pierce the flashing without you knowing about it. Broken roof shingles can also expose your roof flashing, making it more vulnerable to the elements. Regular roof maintenance will make sure that every inch of your roofing remains intact and functions well.
4. Improper Sealing
Residential roofs often have at least one or two peaks and valleys for aesthetic and structural purposes. The seams where two planes of the roof come together are vulnerable to damage. If they are not sealed properly during installation, water can very easily get through. Over time, these seams will be one of the first areas to succumb to wear and tear.
How to avoid it: Highly experienced, professional roofers will ensure that all your roof seams are sealed and supported properly. As with most roof problems, regular maintenance checks will ensure that all parts of your roof are sturdy and safe.
Conclusion
Roofs are meant to protect you and your family from storms, wind, and snow. As such, every inch and seam of your roofing system should be in tip-top shape, or else water will find even the smallest crack to go through. Your roof can become a victim of any of these common roof leak causes, so it’s vital that you remain alert for any signs of damage.
Are you looking for a residential roofing contractor in Indianapolis? Pro-Quality Contractors can help you. We have offered roof replacement and repair services in the Indianapolis area for many years, and we are committed to providing all clients with the best service. Contact us for all your roofing needs!
