Early Warning Signs Of Roof Leaks

Posted on: 3 April 2018


Most roofs don't start leaking out of the blue. This is because most damages that cause roof leaks start out small and eventually cause leaks if they aren't fixed in time. This means you should be on the lookout for these telltale signs so that you can deal with them and avoid leaks. Here are some of these early warning signs.

Missing or Damaged Shingles

Missing or damaged shingles are some of the most obvious signs of an impending roof leak. This is because the shingles are the outermost layer of the roof that protects other roof structures and materials; in fact, they are the toughest. Therefore, when a hailstorm cracks the shingles, or a windstorm lifts off some of the shingles, the roof underlayment (felt) is exposed to all forces of nature. In such a case, it won't take long before the roof starts to leak.

Missing or Damaged Flashing

Roof flashing, which is typically metal, is a material used to provide watertight covers over parts of the roof most susceptible to leaks. This is why it is used to cover the connections or joints on the roof, such as the border between the chimney and the roof, skylight edges or roof ridges and valleys. Since the sole function of the flashing is to prevent water leaks, it isn't surprising that missing or damaged flashing is soon followed by leaks.

Mold and Algae Presence

Mold and algae thrive in moist places; therefore, if they are present on your roof, it means those sections of the house have a moisture problem. This may mean different things depending on which part of the roof has the mold or algae problem. For example, mold on the roof means the roof is perpetually wet, and a roof that is perpetually moist can easily leak because the moisture will damage it. Mold in the attic may mean that some moisture is already penetrating the roof.

Clogged Gutters

Lastly, you should be on the lookout for possible leaks if your gutters are always chockfull of debris. The main function of roof gutters is to channel water away from the roof and drain it safely. If the gutters are full of debris, water will have nowhere to go, and some of it may back up under the roof, damaging it and causing leaks.

Consult residential roofing services the minute you suspect there is a malfunction on the roof. That way you may take measures to prevent them from evolving to leaks.