A roof leak can be a real headache, especially if it goes unchecked for long enough. Therefore, looking out for signs of a roof leak in your home is important, so that you can catch it early and take care of the problem before it spirals. We’ve included some common causes and signs of a leak in your roof here so that you can keep an informed eye out and get roof repairs scheduled before it gets worse.
What Is the Most Common Cause of Roof Leaks?
There are many issues that can lead to roof leaks, but some are more common than others.
Two very common causes of roof leaks are broken tiles and improperly formed metal flashing. Flashings are the metal components designed to direct water away from the important parts of your roof – so if they’re defective or otherwise not operating correctly, it can obviously contribute to water leaking. Damaged shingles can also contribute to leaks, as if they are broken they are not doing their job of protecting your roof.
5 Signs of a Roof Leak
It’s important to keep an eye out for signs of a roof leak, and knowing what to look for is the first step. 5 very common signs of a roof leak are:
- Water Spots on Ceilings or Walls: This one is probably the most prominent sign of a leak in your roof, but when it first emerges, it can be subtle – so keep an eye out for small, dark patches on your ceilings and upper walls. Often there are rooms in your home you rarely go into. Check out all ceilings, closets included.
- Wood Rot or Water Staining at Exterior Overhangs: Take a walk around the entire exterior of your home and look up at the eaves. Wood rot, water staining, and even fungus growth are signs your roof is leaking and needs immediate attention.
- Dripping Gutters: Your gutters are designed to carry water away from your house. If water is remaining in them and dripping, they’re not doing their job, and this can lead to water seeping in through cracks in the roof. If your gutter is not working properly, it could mean that there is something – like post-storm debris – blocking it, or there could be another, less obvious problem.
- Damaged, Cracked, Warped, or Missing Tiles or Shingles.: Shingles that are cracked, warped, displaying other signs of damage, or just plain not there can let water into your home.
- Damaged Flashing: Flashing is an important part of the roof’s architecture that directs water away from corners, joints, and other roof additions such as chimneys. These areas can be vulnerable to leaks if the flashing is damaged.
How Long Can You Leave a Leaking Roof?
If you’ve noticed signs that your roof may be leaking, it’s important to contact a roofing contractor as soon as possible. Leaks can damage the structure of your home and the longer you leave it, the more costly it will become to get it fixed. A leak will never heal itself!
What To Do If You Think Your Roof Is Leaking
If you have reason to believe that there is a roof leak in your home, you should call a roofing company – like Roofstar Arizona – as soon as you can. Roof leaks are always a hassle, but the sooner you get it fixed, the less worrying you’ll have to do, and the less damage you’ll risk your home incurring. Call Roofstar Arizona now at (480) 426-1915 to schedule a consultation or repair for your roof. We’ll always tell you the truth about your roof!