Navigating A Leaking Roof.
D&G Roofing and Restoration understands that a leaking roof can be a cause for concern. From flashing damage to persistent ice dams, we can help find solutions tailored to your specific needs.
The culprits:
- Damaged flashing
- Broken shingles
- Leaking Chimney
- Skylights
- Ice
- Compromised valleys
- Exposed nails
- Holes
- Damaged underlayment
- Age
- Roof vents
- Clogged gutters
- Condensation
A Deep Dive Into Roof Leaks
Damaged flashing
Flashing is made of metal strips that are attached to all seams and edges of the roof to protect it. You can see flashing around the valleys of your roof, chimney, and other places. Roof flashing protects the most vulnerable areas of your roof.
Any damage to flashing is something to be concerned about. When flashing is cracked or bent, water can run inside the roof seams posing a large problem during heavy rains. Flashing damage is caused by poor installation, poor repairs, human error, age, and exposure to ice, snow, and rain. Even the best flashing is prone to wearing out much sooner than other roofing elements.
While damaged flashing should be taken seriously, it is simple for experienced roofing contractors to fix it.
Broken shingles
When it comes to upholding the integrity of your roof every shingle counts. Over time shingles break down or go missing and you may notice leaks in your home. When you are missing one or two shingles you may not notice leaks and damage immediately, but over time the surrounding shingles will deteriorate leading to slow, but extensive damage to your home.
If you have just one or two imperfect shingles, you can contact a local roofing company to make any necessary repairs. A roofing company can assist in color-matching shingles, repairing damaged areas, and inspecting the roof for any other imperfections.
Leaking Chimney
There are several reasons that a chimney would leak during heavy rain.
- The integrity of the metal roof flashing surrounding the chimney may be compromised.
- The saturation in the mortar joints from long periods of rain.
- Rain coming down through the top of the chimney because of cracks, holes, or rust.
While roofing contractors typically can not fix chimney problems, during their inspection of your roof they may be able to find the source of your problem and direct you toward the solution.
Skylights
If you notice your roof leaking around your skylight, the first thing you need to do is identify where the water is coming from, and what could be causing it. Improper installation, worn weatherstripping, holes around the flashing, poor insulation, and possibly the skylight itself.
The skylight must be precisely fitted to the opening made for it. If not done correctly, you may experience leaks right away. Weatherstripping provides a waterproof barrier to assist in keeping your roof leak-free. If the weather seals have aged they may have started to peel due to sun exposure. Poor insulation will allow warm air to flow freely from inside the house. When it touches the pane of glass it may cause condensation. Condensation can cause mold and mildew around the framing, peeling or bubbling paint, and water dripping on valuables underneath. The skylight itself may need to be replaced in the case of cracks in the glass. Hail and other storms with strong winds that move debris can also cause chipping in the light
Ice
Ice dams are chunks of ice that form at the edge of a roof. The build-up of ice in your gutters will prevent melting snow and ice from draining off, causing water to back up into your roof. The water will leak into your home wreaking havoc on the walls, ceilings, insulation, and anything else it comes into contact with.
Ice dams can easily be prevented by regularly cleaning your gutters. If you have a big gutter cleaning project, think about contacting a local company that offers gutter cleaning services.
Compromised valleys
Roof valleys are some of the most common areas to experience leaks. This is due to the continuous wear and tear from rainwater and debris gathering and flowing through them before draining into your gutters. It is common for valleys to leak, especially during heavy rain or snow.
Roof valleys may leak due to aging roofing materials, broken flashing, strong winds, damaged roofing membranes, and thermal expansion.
Temporary repairs can be made to allow you time to save up for a professional roof repair or replacement, get quotes from contractors, or to just figure out the best course of action. Eventually a full reroof will be necessary to find the root cause of the leak.
Exposed nails
Even something as small as a nail hole can compromise your roof’s integrity. Exposed nails are liable to rust away, and when they do you will be left with a small hole in your roof. If you spot an exposed nail address it promptly to prevent further damage to your home. If you think you are experiencing leaks due to improperly installed shingles and exposed nails you can contact a local roofing company to seal the exposed nail heads.
Holes
Holes in your roof over time will lead to wood rot, mold, and mildew build-up. It will then lead to damage to your ceiling joists, wall trim, rafters, and fascia boards. Depending on the severity of the hole, a trained roofing professional can repair or replace the damaged area of your home to fix and prevent a leaking roof.
Damaged underlayment
Underlayment is a thin waterproof material that is laid on the roof for protection against moisture. The underlayment serves as safekeeping in the case of missing shingles until actual repairs can be made. Underlayment can be compromised by delayed reshingling, high temperatures, poor installation, low-quality materials, and water.
Age
The older your roof is, the more likely it is to experience leaks. Even the best quality roofing materials deteriorate over time. If you have an older roof and are noticing leaks around your home it may be time to think about a new roof.
Roof vents
A good roofing system will have proper ventilation made possible by properly installed roof vents. They assist in preventing the roof from overheating and developing condensation. In addition to this, your roof overheats and moisture builds up. This can lead to substantial damage or health risks.
One of the most common problems with roof vents is that they become clogged with debris. This happens by leaves and twigs building up around the vent, or the vent itself becoming damaged. Other common problems include damage to the pipe vent collars, damage to flashing, or poorly sealed seams. A professional roofing consultant can help you determine what is causing the leak, and help you make any necessary repairs or replacements.
Clogged gutters
The gutters on your home can easily be filled with dirt and debris. When they are filled they can not properly do their job of directing water away from your home. This will cause water to run back towards your roof and may be causing the water to leak into your home.
Condensation
You may see water build up in your home because of condensation, not leaking water. Distinguishing the difference between condensation and a leak can be a bit tricky. Condensation forms when humid air encounters a cold surface. You can confirm condensation buildup in your attic by checking for frost buildup on attic surfaces, ice dam formation, water beads on window panes, water drips around ceiling fixtures and exhaust vents, and discolored spots on ceilings and walls.
You can improve condensation buildup by increasing roof ventilation, upgrading attic insulation levels, fixing exhaust fans, sealing the attic, and dehumidifying your home to remove excess moisture. Not sure if it is a leak or condensation? That’s okay! Any experienced roofer should be happy to perform an inspection and help you find the best course of action.
The Solution To A Leaking Roof.
Whether it is a small repair or a total reroof D&G Roofing and Restoration can assist you in getting your home back in shape. As one of the best roofing contractors in the Dayton, Ohio area we are happy to provide free inspections of your home! If you have concerns about your roof leaking or condensation problems in your home, contact us today to be paired with an educated roofing professional!
