Identifying the 4 Common Causes of Roof Leaks

It’s tempting to attribute all types of roof leaks to severe weather and the copious amounts of rainwater your roof has to deal with during such instances. In reality, there are various reasons why your roof is leaking. Lankford Roofing & Construction LLC, one of the premier roofing contractors in the area, lists four possible causes of roof leaks.

1. Roof Aging

As your roof ages, it becomes less efficient at keeping the elements out. Roofing materials, no matter how sturdy, become brittle over time. This is especially true if your roof is not new. If you’ve recently moved into a new neighborhood, make it a point to ask your real estate agent or the previous owners about the age of the currently installed roof.

2. Flashing

The flashing on roof ensures that water cannot get inside your home through the joints of your roof, especially around the chimney and skylights, where water tends to pool. If the flashing gets dislodged due to loose nails, it could spell trouble for you. Your caulking can also crack and dry after some time, so make sure to inspect your roof every now and then. If you’re not comfortable inspecting your roof yourself, it’s better to consult any of the leading local roof repair contractors than to risk an accident.

3. Clogged Gutters

Debris buildup hinders your gutters from functioning properly. Clogged gutters add unnecessary weight to your roof. On the other hand, a clog-free gutter ensures smooth water dispersal, directing rainwater away from your roof and your home’s foundation.

4. Holes and Gaps

Missing shingles, holes from previous antenna installations and ridge cap gaps all provide openings on your roof where water can get into your home. Your roof requires a thorough inspection to spot these issues.

Common leak causes by roof type

The four causes above apply to most roofs, but each roof type also has its own weak points.

• Asphalt shingle roofs: cracked rubber pipe boots, lifted shingles near the edges, and worn flashing at chimneys and walls.
• Exposed-fastener metal roofs: the rubber washer under each screw dries out and cracks in the sun, and screws can back out as panels expand and contract. Panel laps that were never sealed can let wind-driven rain in.
• Standing seam metal roofs: leaks are rare in the panels themselves and more likely at penetrations, end laps and trim.
• Flat and low-slope roofs: open seams, ponding water, and flashing where the membrane meets walls, curbs and rooftop units.

Knowing your roof type helps you describe the problem when you call. Our repair service covers shingle and metal panel repair and replacement; see our roof repair page, or our commercial roofing page for flat roofs.

Turn to Lankford Roofing & Construction LLC for roofing services you can trust. We also offer window replacement services. You may call us at (903) 465-7677 or at (580) 920-1433. We serve commercial and residential properties in Denison, Sherman and other areas in Texas.