5 Common Causes of Roof Leaks

A leaking roof can create a stream of panic, but it’s important to understand that not all roof leaks are created equal. From the natural elements to dry rot, there are many different reasons why roof leaks occur. Before you panic and assume you have to replace your whole roof, the roofing experts at Glick’s Exteriors have compiled a list of what causes roof leaks. Let’s take a closer look!

Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks

1. Wear and Tear in Your Flashing

Issues with your roof’s flashing (thin metal sheeting installed under shingles to create a water-resistant barrier) are the most common cause of roof leaks. Over time, the tar used to seal together the flashing can corrode, exposing your flashing to the elements. If this occurs, your flashing becomes susceptible to wind or rain and can cause cracking, resulting in a leak in your roof.

2. Issues with Your Shingles

Roof leaks are sometimes the result of cracked, broken, or missing shingles on your roof.

How do shingle issues start? Winter weather, age, and wear and tear are all factors that can affect the condition of your shingles. The good news? If all of the other shingles on your roof are in good condition, you should only have to replace the shingles that are in poor condition.

3. Formation of Ice Dams

If your roof started leaking during the winter months, chances are it’s due to an ice dam. Because of the heat from your home, the snow on your roof melts, collects at the edges of your roof, and can refreeze, resulting in an ice dam. When this happens, water can be forced underneath your roof’s shingles, resulting in a slow leak.

4. Clogged Gutters

Because the main responsibility of gutters is to direct water away from your roof, when they’re clogged, they can’t function properly. Whether they’re filled with leaves, dirt, snow, or ice, clogged gutters cause water to back up into the area beneath your shingles. If you notice that your leak is located near your gutter, and they haven’t recently been cleaned, this could potentially be the reason that your roof is leaking.

5. People

Believe it or not, human activity on your roof could be to blame for your roof leaking. While it’s ok for you to walk on your roof, too much activity up there can create damage. There are certain areas on your roof that are more susceptible to damage than others, like your HVAC system. Other human activity that can cause roof damage includes dropping heavy tools and not handling machinery properly.

What Damage Can a Leaking Roof Cause?

If you’re currently experiencing a roof leak, then you’re probably thinking to yourself, “What damage can a leaking roof cause?”. A roof leak can cause several issues, from damaged paint and plaster to broken ceiling-mounted lights and fans. Water damage from a leaking roof will only get worse when left untreated, so time is of the essence. 

Fix Your Leaking Roof

What causes roof leaks can differ from home to home. However, the most important thing you should take away from this is the fact that waiting to fix a roof leak, no matter the cause, could bring a whole flood of other issues. Instead of wasting time searching “expert roof repair near me,” contact the local roofing experts at Glick’s Exteriors today! From new roofs to roof repairs, our number one priority at Glick’s Exteriors is to maintain the quality and life of your roof. Contact us today to put a stop to your roof leak stress—and your leaking roof in general!