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7 Common Causes Of Roof Leaks And How To Fix Them

Mitch Avatar By: Mitch | Last updated February 22, 2023

modern house with a snow covered roof


Introduction

If you've ever had a roof leak, you know how frustrating and damaging it can be. And if you haven't had one yet, you may want to do everything possible to avoid it. The good news is that there are some common causes of roof leaks - and once you know what they are, you can take steps to fix them. Here are seven of the most common causes of roof leaks and advice on fixing them. So read on, and keep your roof in tip-top shape.

a window on a roof covered by new asphalt shingles

1. Worn or Damaged Shingles

As an experienced homeowner, you know how swiftly time passes - especially when it comes to the wear and tear of shingles on my roof. As shingles are constantly exposed to the elements, they can become warped, cracked, or damaged. Unfortunately, these issues can greatly reduce the roof's lifespan, so you must closely inspect your roof every few years to see if any of your shingles are worn or damaged.


Replacing them as soon as detected not only adds years of life and beauty to your home but also prevents more serious damage from occurring - such as leaks or structural damage. With data shared by trusted experts stating that most homeowners underestimate how often their roofs must be replaced, taking proactive steps now can help prepare for heavier winter weather down the road. The best way to fix this is to call a certified roofing company in Spokane to assess the damage and replace worn-out shingles. Professionals can also offer valuable advice and information on addressing any underlying issues.

2. Clogged Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause many home headaches, leading to unsightly mossy buildup on your siding, staining your paint with drips of accumulated water, and in the worst cases, leaving you with a flooded backyard. Let's nip that issue in the bud after every season.

Regular cleaning will help keep this pesky home problem under control. Be sure to check and see if your gutters are clogged, not only after spring showers or fall leaves have come around but all year long - they can get clogged up just as easily from thick gloves and shingles from trees. Ensure you don't forget to check those downspouts, too – those extra pieces of protection might spare you a lot of trouble (and money) in the future. Keep ahead of clogged gutters and downspouts so you never have to worry about costly repairs due to water damage.

3. Ice Dams

Winter can bring about unique problems for homeowners, but chief among them is the risk of ice dams. An ice dam forms when the snow melts on the roof and then refreezes around the edges, trapping more melted water behind it and preventing it from draining off. When left unchecked, these dams can significantly damage a home's roof, eaves, and more – all requests for costly repairs.

That's why it's essential to recognize the signs of an ice dam early and take proactive steps up front to handle any trouble before it's too late. Fortunately, several easy DIY tips are available online to keep your home safe through the winter season.

4. Poor Ventilation

Poor ventilation in the home can compromise your health, as it can be linked to an increased risk of respiratory illnesses like asthma. Having optimal levels of air moisture is also vital in preventing the growth of mold, fungus, and bacteria – which are all linked to poor air quality. Regarding regulating moisture, think about using dehumidifiers or getting an energy recovery ventilator (ERV), as these can help draw out stale air and put fresh oxygen back into the home.

a black bird sitting on an older red clay roof

Additionally, remember that safety should always come first; checkout your heaters and wood-burning stoves regularly to ensure no combustible fumes are circulating the living space. Ultimately, with some easy solutions, you can breathe easier knowing your house is well-ventilated for the whole family.

5. Flashing Issues

Flashing issues can be a major headache for tech users, leading to slower performance, unexpected crashes, and system failures. Thankfully, this isn't always the end of the day – many times, flashing problems can be detected early on and fixed with some quick strategies. It's essential to diagnose what type of flashing problem you are having and then take the appropriate steps to troubleshoot if possible.

Even if the underlying issue turns out to be more complicated than originally thought, these steps can help provide insight into the cause of the issue to make an informed decision about how best to proceed with repairs. So before giving up on that computer or mobile device, look at any flashing problems you have and consider taking steps to resolve them for better performance and longer life for your favorite devices.

6. Animal Damage

No one wants to think about animals ravaging their property and causing damage. However, it is an unfortunate reality for many homeowners throughout the world. Animal pests can wreak havoc on your home and land, from digging up gardens to entering attics or invading walls. The good news is that you can protect yourself from unwanted animal guests by installing barriers and trapping methods before they cause problems.

To prevent future damage, keep entrances tightly sealed, so these pests don't have a way inside, such as closing off gaps around foundations or windows while maintaining a regular maintenance schedule on your property. If all else fails, call an expert to help effectively remove wild animals from your property safely and humanely.

7. Inadequate Insulation

Improper or inadequate insulation can be a major problem for homeowners, especially during the colder winter. Poor insulation can lead to higher energy bills and make it challenging to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Properly insulating your home is an integral part of climate control. If you still need to, consider investing in some high-quality insulation material and ensure your home is ready for the winter season.

As you can see, many potential problems can occur if your roof needs to be correctly cared for. These issues range from cosmetic to structural, leading to big problems if not dealt with quickly and efficiently. If you have any of these issues with your roof, or it's simply time for a tune-up, contact a roofing professional today. They'll be able to assess the situation and provide you with a plan of action for getting your roof into top shape once again.

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