Silver Spring Roofing: Article About Why Roofs Leak
Weatherproofing is the act of making sure that a home is protected from the elements. Adding flashing to a roof may prevent water from getting into the home. Caulk may also be used to ensure that there are no gaps through which water, debris or pests could get inside of a home.
FAQ from Silver Spring roofing contractors: How quickly can water damage impact a home?Water can start eating away at wood, insulation or other materials in a home instantly. As soon as a homeowner notices water stains or notices an odor in the home consistent with mildew, it is time to call a professional. Mold may also be a sign that excess moisture is present in the home.
A leaking roof can cause damage throughout the entire house and cost several hundreds or thousands of dollars to fix. However, understanding what causes a roof to leak may help homeowners take steps to prevent one from occurring. Scheduling roof inspections with a Silver Spring roofing professional will further reduce the odds of small issues turning into larger ones.
One of the most common causes of a roof leak is debris in the gutter. This could be due to ice buildup during a rare cold spell, or leaves, branches or any other objects that would impede water's ability to spill off the roof and away from the home. It is always a good idea to check for gutter blockages after a storm or if it has been excessively windy. Gutters and downspouts should also be examined to ensure that they are clear of debris that could cause water to backup into the house and cause significant damage over time.
If animals are nesting in a gutter, it could also prevent water from flowing away from the home. Instead, it will drip back into the home and cause damage to walls, ceilings and insulation. Homeowners who see nests or hear creatures walking or running in the attic may have an infestation that needs to be dealt with quickly.
Have a question regarding roofing, doors or gutters? Please ask an expert from Seneca Creek Home Improvement of Silver Spring MD today.
Another common cause of roof leaks has to do with the slope of the roof. If a roof has an inadequate slope, it could make it more susceptible to leaks and other types of damage. In addition to an inadequate slope, the roof could have broken or missing shingles, which further degrades its ability to keep water from leaking into a home. Shingles that are brittle or have had protective substances scraped off should be replaced as well.
Improper or deteriorating flashing around chimneys, skylights and around the edges of the roof could be another cause of roof leaks. In some cases, flashing is either not installed or is installed improperly with a new roof or during a roof repair. Without proper weatherproofing, water damage could occur after even a light rain or other moisture event.
Homeowners who see water stains on the ceiling or elsewhere in the home may have a leaking roof. Since this could lead to significant damage, it is important to call a professional as soon as possible. He or she can survey the damage and get to work right away on fixing it.
