Roofing Insider: What Causes Leaks?

It may come as some surprise to learn that the majority of leaks come from improper installation by the roofing company

. Together with flashings that are defective, such as chimneys, steps, and aprons, they combine to make up the greatest percentage of leaks, which the homeowner may only discover years later after a torrential storm. Of course, what's done is done. Unless you have a tremendous guarantee on the work, you'll probably be stuck with the bill when it comes to repair.

When the roofing company you hire comes out to do the repairs, make sure they are looking for any sort of deterioration that might have occurred. Just because there is only a leak in one area doesn't mean there aren't other places where rot is happening and could be leading to further problems down the road. Leaks can wreak havoc on the structural integrity of the home and should be taken care of as soon as possible.

The shingles themselves are one of the most probably sources of leaks. A good roofing company will not only recommend shingles that are designed to last, but they will affix them in such a way that leaks are an improbability. Of course, not every company will give you that type of service. Make sure the repair company knows to replace faulty shingles or can fasten them in a better way, if the current method is allowing water to get into the home.

Of course, problems with the structure itself are not the only reason leaks can occur. Many leaks grow out of a poor gutter system or one that is clogged with leaves and debris. If this is the case, you may be able to take care of the problem yourself. Gutters should always be unclogged and tended to at least once a season. More often than that, if you live in an area with a lot of trees.

Roofing leaks can be the bane of a homeowner's existence, and the trouble is that many of them can be very difficult to locate. Simply traveling upwards from water damage in the ceiling is unfortunately not a good strategy. Water tends to collect on the lowest part of the ceiling, which can mean the leak came from just about anywhere. Even professionals have a difficult time finding leaks. Look for areas in the rafters where water is collecting and try to discover what path the water took, working backwards.

by: Andrew Stratton

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