A roof leak can occur at any moment. This is really frustrating, especially if you can’t identify what’s causing the leak. For this reason, you’ll want to inspect your roofing on a regular basis so that a major problem doesn’t occur. With this in mind, you’ll want to understand the warning signs of a leaky roof so you can pinpoint the general area in which a problem may occur.
Cracked Flashing
Flashing is the sheet of metal that’s installed at transition points in your roof, like where the roof meets a wall. You can tell when the flashing is cracked because it’s not a small crack, it’s usually a large one. This simply happens over time as the roof’s materials slowly degrade due to expansion and contraction that are caused by changing temperatures. As this happens the materials grow brittle, begin to leak, and cause a roof leak. Older roofs that have been in the harsh Florida sunshine for a while also experience melting tar, which can also expose parts of your flashing.
Cracked Attic Ventilation
Every roof has small domes or pipes sticking out of it. These let the hot air escape from your attic. The best way to inspect for a leak in this part of your roofing is simply to go up into your attic and inspect for musty odors or dark spots. This usually occurs over the course of time because the rubber sealing corrodes and cracks. The flashing cement around them opens, allowing water in.
Improperly Sealed Roofing Valleys
A valley is a point in your roof where two different planes meet. These areas are usually sloped, making it easy for rainwater to slip inside if it isn’t sealed properly. You can identify a roof leak in this area because debris or vegetation will usually clog it up. Of course, improper sealing and severe weather can also cause the issue.
Clogged Roof and Gutters
Clogged gutters are the easiest type of roof leak to discern. You’ll know it’s there because water will pour over the sides of your gutters or it won’t properly flow down your downspouts. Water may also accumulate on your roof, above the flashing. Large trees are typically the culprit. This is why it’s so important for you to trim your trees on a regular basis. When doing so, you should also clean your gutters.
A Cracked Chimney
One last type of roof leak you should be on the lookout for occurs when you have cracks in your chimney. These are usually something you can scan for with your eyes since damaged shingles and dark spots will occur where your chimney is leaking. Usually, this happens because of the weather, especially too much exposure to the hot Florida sunshine. Rain can also lead to cracks and leaks in your chimney.
Missing or Broken Roofing Tile Roof
You should look at your roof on a regular basis. Don’t just look at it though. Look for any changes in color or missing or broken tiles. These are the tiles that will usually appear a bit off-color – even if they’re just a bit lighter. Usually, these roofing issues occur after a severe storm.
While you’re probably anxious to stop your roof from leaking, you shouldn’t risk injury to yourself to do so. Instead, reach out to our team of professionals at Avatar Roofing. With years of experience on our side, we’re fully equipped to evaluate what’s wrong with your roof and fix it for you too.
Picture Credit: iStock