Roof leaks can be stressful to deal with. While some start with tiny water drops from the ceiling, you will notice other leaks that cause yellow and brown patches on the ceiling. Repairing the roof immediately ensures there is no more water damage.
The roof’s current state helps the experts rule out the cause of the leaks, with the most common causes being age and lost shingles. Other diagnosable causes are poor installation of skylights, clogged gutters, and cracked flashing.
This write-up explains to depth signs of a leaking roof and the probable reasons for the leaks. Let’s get straight into it.
Signs Of a Leaking Roof
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How will you know that your roof is leaking? Check for the following signs.
1. Drips
The most obvious sign for leaks is drippage. The drops can either be falling from the ceiling to the floor or in the attic. Living with a dripping roof can lead to more water damages like discoloration of the walls and ceiling.
The first step to dealing with the drops is getting a roofing contractor in Lubbock to identify the exact cause of the leak. Correct identification will help you get the proper roof treatment.
2. Discoloration On The Ceiling
White ceilings are more likely to show the brown and yellow patches caused by water damage. Although most homeowners will immediately worry about replacing their shingles, the problem could also be worn-out pipes and condensation in the ceiling.
Failure to treat the leaks will lead to more damage and rotting on the ceiling. The patches also reduce the home’s aesthetics. Replace the pipes or shingles and find the best procedure to clean the stains.
3. Wall Growths
Moisture causes mold, fungi, and moss on the walls, and roof leaks are potential reasons for the wall growths. Some of these stains are permanent and can spread to other parts of the home. Other signs of mold and fungi are damper and darker areas in the house.
4. Wet Pipes
Wet pipes result from aging or rust on the pipes and can lead to wall growths and dumbness in the house if you don’t repair them. You can also contact a professional to replace the pipes if they are beyond repair.
5. Missing Shingles
When you notice that some shingles are missing during a roof inspection, there are high chances of roof leaks. This is because water can easily sip through the roof into the ceiling, and the wood absorbs the moisture and starts rotting.
Causes Of Roof Leaks
Once you notice signs of a leaking roof, the first step is to examine the cause of the leaks. It helps in getting the best roof treatment.
Here are the common causes of roof leaks:
1. Roof Aging
Roofs have an expiry date, and as they get closer to the end of their lifespan, the level of protection reduces. Shingles start curling, and the underlayment wares out. The caulking also wears out, making the entire roof prone to water.
Although loose and lost shingles are repairable, it is advisable to replace the entire roof if it is old. Besides time, other causes of aging are extreme temperatures and adverse weather conditions
2. Poorly Installed Flashing
During roofing, roof experts install flashing at all the joints to cover any spaces that could lead to water leaks. It keeps water from leaking through the roof and coloring the ceiling.
The flashing also damages due to aging and adverse weather conditions. Homeowners can replace damaged ceilings to avoid more water leaks. You should also do a roof inspection to ensure the flashing around the chimney and skylights area is well fixed.
3. Missing Shingles
Roof shingles protect the roof against external elements like sunshine, winds, and rainwater. However, harsh weather conditions like strong winds and hail can cause the loosening of the shingles. Tree branches also fall on the shingles, creating fractures and damage.
Any small space on the roof can be a significant entry point of water. Therefore, homeowners should check for missing shingles after strong winds and heavy rains. Replacing the missing and curling shingles will ensure no water leaks on the roof.
4. Poor Installation Of Skylights
Houses without enough window space have one option for lighting and ventilation; skylights. These windows are installed on the roof, and some are operable with remote control.
Poor installation of the skylights can lead to water leakage in the house. Window experts should ensure they install perfect flashing or caulking around the skylight area. The choice of the skylight to be installed should also match well with the roof type.
5. Clogged Gutters
The roof should have a functional guttering system to ensure proper water drainage. When debris collects on the roof and inside the gutters, less water flows, leading to the formation of small pools on the roof. The water then starts sipping into the ceiling slowly.
Homeowners should clean the gutters regularly to ensure there is no debris. Ensure you observe all the safety measures for climbing up a roof. Alternatively, you can contact a roofing expert to do it for you.
6. Uncovered Chimney
Not all roof leaks are due to shingle and ceiling damages. Other leaks are due to wear on structures on the roof like chimneys. Failure to cover the chimney with the cap leads water drops directly to the fireplace.
Also, cracked chimneys are a perfect reason for leaks. The extent of the crack will determine if repairing or replacing it is the best option. This is why dealing with experts can help you get a better solution to the problem.
Identify the causes of the roof leak
Once you spot any signs of leaks, the first action should be finding the reason for the leak. This will help you understand what to repair or replace. Repairing the roof without knowing the cause makes it challenging to choose a roof treatment method.
Final Words
Not all roof leaks are due to loose shingles and old flashing. Hiring a roofing expert to inspect the causes of the leaks makes it easier to choose the correct repairs. They can also advise you on better ways to deal with any leaks and care for the roof.
