Roof replacements can be expensive, so timely roof repairs can extend the life of your South Jersey or Southeastern Pennsylvania roof. This is why it is a good idea to have roof inspections performed by roofing contractors. It is also a good idea to know the things that can cause roof damage. The following are three things that can lead to roof leaks.
Damaged Shingles
The shingles on roofs can get damaged by inclement weather events. For example, after a severe storm, you might observe missing shingles that were blown off due to high winds. Missing shingles expose the underlying roof materials to moisture and need to be replaced as soon as possible to prevent roof leaks. Sometimes shingles may have damages that you cannot see from the ground. These shingles may need to be replaced to ensure the integrity of your roof. You could try to look for these damaged shingles by using binoculars, but you should not attempt to climb your roof and look for damaged shingles due to the risk of falling as well as causing additional damages if you step on blistered shingles. Roof inspections should be left to a professional roofing contractor.
Roof Vent Issues
Roof vents aid in removing moisture. When they are installed improperly or get damaged, they can cause roof leaks. You may not be able to see where the leak is coming from, but this type of leak may result in a musty odor in the house that is related to the moisture issue. Vent issues should be taken seriously because they can lead to other issues such as mold or mildew growth. Some roof vent issues are related to damaged flashing that needs to replaced.
Damaged Flashing
The flashing portion of a roof serves the purpose of making the roof water-resistant. The material is made to last a long time, but at some point, flashing needs to be replaced, which is why roof inspections are recommended. Damaged flashing will likely appear cracked. The cracks can occur due to corrosion of the materials, and exposure to the elements can also cause them to break down.
Roofing contractors are good resources to find out other issues that could leave you susceptible to roof leaks. For example, if you live in an area that has harsh, icy winters (like South Jersey,) ice dams could form on your roof and cause damage. If you’re experiencing roof leaks, contact Emmons Roofing & Siding for a free quote.
