Roof leaks are common issues that many homeowners face at some point.
In addition to creating annoying puddles throughout your home, roof leaks can also have serious consequences. Such as increasing the potential for mold outbreaks or weakening structural components.
It’s important to be proactive and find ways to prevent roof leaks in your home.
Below we have listed some effective measures you can take to keep your home safe and dry.
Cleaning gutters regularly prevents roof leaks
Clogged gutters are common causes of roof leaks in homes. When you don’t clean your gutters regularly, leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate in them. This prevents them from effectively directing water away from your home.
Instead, water will spill over the gutters onto the roof of your home, which can result in roof leaks over time. To prevent this from occurring, clean your gutters regularly—especially during the fall season when leaves fall more rapidly.
Insulating your attic
It may sound strange, but the insulation in your attic can have a large effect on the state of your roof. Particularly during the colder months of the year.
Snow accumulates on your rooftop during the winter. If your attic isn’t properly insulated, warm air from your home will escape through your roof and melt this snow. Then, the water will run down your roof before eventually refreezing at the bottom and forming a ledge known as an ice dam.
The ice dam will prevent liquid from running off your roof and cause a pool to form in the middle. The pooled water not only increases the potential for leaks but also places added pressure on your roof. This may cause it to collapse. To prevent leaks or other forms of roof damage, it’s important to insulate your attic properly.
Inspecting and repairing flashing
Flashing plays a key role in preventing water from entering a home through the roof. Flashing refers to thin pieces of metal or vinyl that are impervious to water and that serve as weather-resistant barriers.
This is often installed around skylights, vents, chimneys, and areas where the roof and wall meet.
If the flashing becomes cracked, loose, or otherwise damaged, a roof leak is likely to occur. It’s important to inspect your flashing periodically. Repair it immediately if you notice any signs of damage.
Giving the professionals at Muth Roofing a call
Choose a contractor who can fix your roof the first time around. Roof repair for leaks requires precise work and is risky to attempt if you don’t have the necessary experience. A roofing professional will be familiar with every aspect of the roofing work, as well as the techniques to employ. After inspecting your system thoroughly for wind, hail, or sun damage, they’ll work on the applicable solutions. Contact us today!