The Telltale Signs of a Roof Leak That You Should Never Ignore
Did you know that roof leakage can cause severe damage to your home and pose a threat to your family’s health?
The longer you wait to address a roof leak, the more damage it can cause. You need to know the telltale signs of roof leakage and their causes to prevent costly repairs.
This article will discuss seven common roof leak signs and what causes them. Identifying early signs of damage protects your home from water damage, mold growth, and structural issues.
Read on to learn about the signs of roof leakage and their causes.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
Missing or damaged shingles can be difficult to spot, especially from the ground. Can you spot signs of lost or damaged shingles? Here’s what to look for.
- Exposed roof decking
- Granules in gutters or downspouts
- Curled or buckled shingles
As shingles age, they become more brittle and prone to cracking, curling, or breaking. Exposure to harsh sunlight, extreme temperatures, and heavy rain can cause them to deteriorate over time.
Poor installation can lead to missing or damaged shingles. Incorrect nailing or improper alignment can cause shingles to loosen or fall off.
Address the issue right away if you notice any of these. Leaving damaged shingles unattended can lead to further damage to your roof, including leaks, mold growth, and even structural damage.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is the material that seals the roof edges, vents, and chimneys. When the flashing is damaged or worn out, water can seep into the roof and cause leaks. Causes of damaged flashing include improper installation, extreme weather conditions, or regular wear and tear.
Damaged flashing can look different depending on the cause of the damage. Here are a few common signs of damaged flashing to look out for:
Cracks and Breaks in Flashing Material
Flashing can crack or break due to age, exposure to the elements, or physical damage. This can create gaps or holes in the flashing, allowing water to seep in and cause leaks.
Rust or Corrosion
Metal flashing can rust or corrode over time, especially in areas with high levels of moisture or salt in the air. Rust can weaken the flashing and create gaps or holes where water can enter.
Lifting or Detachment
High winds or improper installation can cause flashing to lift or detach from the roof. It can create gaps where water can seep in.
Warping or Buckling
Heat or moisture can cause flashing to warp or buckle, creating gaps or holes where water can enter.
You must install flashing correctly to create a watertight seal and prevent leaks. Incorrect installations can lead to gaps or seams in the flashing, allowing water to seep in and cause damage.
Heavy rain, snow, or hail can loosen or damage flashing, allowing water to seep into the roof and cause leaks. High winds can also lift or dislodge flashing, creating gaps where water can seep in.
Exposure to sunlight, moisture, and temperature changes can cause flashing to warp, crack, or break down over time. Aging flashing can become brittle and prone to damage.
Ignoring damaged flashing can lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural damage to your home.
Cracked Roof Tiles
Weather conditions, poor installation, or physical damage can cause tiles to crack. Exposure to heavy rain, hail, or foot traffic can cause breakages, allowing water to seep in.
Poor installation can also lead to cracked roof tiles. Incorrect placement or alignment of tiles can cause stress on the tiles and create weak points that can break over time.
Clogged Gutters
Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into the roof, causing leaks. Leaves and other debris can accumulate throughout the year, especially during fall.
Signs of clogged gutters include:
- Water overflowing from gutters
- Water stains on walls or ceilings
- Pooling water around your home’s foundation
Neglecting to clean your gutters can lead to clogs and prevent water from flowing. This can cause water to back onto the roof and seep into the attic or walls, causing water damage and mold growth. Consider investing in gutter guards to cut down on clogging.
Pooled Water on the Roof
Pooled water on the roof can signify a low-sloped roof or a damaged roof structure. When the water pools on top, it can seep into the roof and cause leaks. Regular roof inspections can help find the cause of pooled water.
Stains on Ceilings or Walls
Water stains on ceilings and walls are a clear sign of roof leakage. The stains can range from yellow to brown and signify water damage. If you notice stains on your ceilings or walls, get your roof inspected by a professional.
Sagging Roof
A sagging roof is a severe sign of roof leakage and can signify major structural damage to your home.
When water seeps into the roof, it can cause the roof structure to weaken and sag over time. This can lead to further water damage or mold growth. It can even cause the roof to collapse!
Signs of a sagging roof include:
- Visible dip or depression in the roofline
- Uneven or warped decking
- Visible cracks in the ceiling or walls
You may notice doors or windows that are difficult to open or close or gaps between walls and the ceiling.
Water damage, poor construction, or inadequate support can cause a roof to sag. In some cases, the weight of snow or ice can cause sagging.
Call a Professional Roofer for Help
Pay attention to the signs of roof leakage! By identifying the seven common roof leak signs and their causes, you can prevent costly damage to your home. If you notice any signs of roof leakage, don’t hesitate to call a professional for repair.
At Embry Roofing in Evansville, IN, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality roofing services to our clients. If you’re experiencing any signs of a roof leak that we’ve discussed, please don’t wait to take action.
Our team of experienced roofing contractors can help you protect your home from leaks.
CHECK OUT THE LATEST
FROM OUR BLOG
