It can be frustrating to discover leaks in your attic. There is a possibility that you are worried about the effects of moisture and the impact water damage may have already had on your home. Whether it’s mold growth or wood rot, leaks can have devastating consequences for your home’s health, comfort, and structural integrity. The first step in solving a roof leak is to repair it. You may not know where to look for the leak’s source. A roof leak repair contractor will be needed at this point.

The Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks

By determining the cause of the roof leak, you can prevent the damage from recurring. Roof leaks can occur for a variety of reasons, such as a storm that caused a tree to fall and damage your roof. There are, however, some types of roof damage that have no obvious cause. A roof leak repair contractor has the experience and knowledge to pinpoint the source of a leak, saving you time and money. You should look for several things if you decide to inspect your roof yourself.

Corroded Flashing

The flashing is one of the first things most roofing contractors examine. Roof flashings are thin metal pieces that are typically installed under shingles and at roof joints. Flashing is designed to create a water-resistant barrier, whether it is exposed or concealed. It is possible for flashing to corrode over time, causing cracks that allow water to seep through. To fix cracked flashing, a contractor will remove any shingles in the way, pry up the old, damaged flashing and remove the cracked section. A new run of flashing can then be secured in its place and protected using roofing sealant.

Broken Shingles

Another common cause of attic leaks is broken shingles. Some shingles are simply cracked, curled, or broken, while others go missing due to high winds or old age. Your roof will have different colored sections if there are missing shingles. Your yard may also have the shingles that are missing. It is usually possible to repair just a few damaged or missing shingles. The roof leak repair contractor will remove the old shingles and replace them with new ones.

Improperly Sealed Valleys

Roofing valley cluttered with leaves and in need of repair. Inadequately sealed valleys are another common cause of roof leaks. Valleys are V-shaped metal channels that run up and down roof slopes. Water can enter your attic if these areas are not well sealed. When inspecting the roof, a contractor will usually look for signs of moisture along the seams of the roof. Due to the complexity of this problem, only a professional is able to fix it properly. Improperly sealed valleys can be repaired by lying down a new leak barrier and placing new shingles over top.

Leaking Skylights

Skylights on your roof are prone to leaks. Skylight leaks are usually easy to detect. There may be moisture around the skylight itself, and you may even need drop buckets to catch rainwater. Leaking skylights can occur for a number of reasons, including deteriorating insulation around the edges or improper installation. Look for gaps or cracks around skylights in your attic. Additionally, make sure that any flashing around the light is positioned correctly. Apply a layer of moisture-resistant silicone to any cracks.

Clogged Gutters

You may not have a problem with your roof itself, but with your gutters. Water is carried away from your home by gutters. Clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, they can become blocked, preventing water from passing through. If rainwater pools near your roof, it can seep into cracks and into your attic. Getting rid of the blockages from the gutters is the only way to ensure that the water can run off of the roof and away from your house.

Consequences of a Leaking Roof

 

Structural Damage

Failure to fix a roof leak will result in a variety of consequences. The potential for damage from a roof leak is one of the biggest consequences. Moisture can cause wood rot, which affects your home’s structural integrity. When water seeps into your attic, the materials can become compromised and eventually fail. It is possible for your ceiling and even sections of your roof to collapse as a result.

Mold Growth

Damage to the interior of a house caused by ceiling mold caused by roof leaksMold is another major concern in homes with roof leaks. When the conditions are right, mold grows quickly. The best conditions for mold growth are damp, warm, and humid, such as those found in attics. People living in the home may feel the effects of mold if it continues to grow and spread. Sneezing, skin irritation, nasal congestion, throat irritation, and chest tightness can all be caused by mold. The symptoms of mold allergies can be severe for those who suffer from them. Because mold spores can travel through the air, removing mold in your attic is not easy and usually requires professional help.

Contact a Roof Repair Contractor Today

You may not discover a roof leak until the damage is done if you do not spend much time in your attic. A trained and certified roof leak repair contractor should inspect your roof on a regular basis. An experienced roofer will know what to look for when inspecting your roof and attic. In addition, they can detect minor roof problems before they turn into larger, more expensive problems. You can hire a roof repair contractor in your area for more information or to inspect your home.