The Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks

As a homeowner, discovering that your roof has a leak may be one of your worst nightmares. But even the most diligent homeowners may find themselves in this position on occasion. Luckily, most serious roofing issues can be caught early – or altogether avoided – by scheduling a regular Chesterfield roof inspection. 

Below, we’ve listed five of the most common causes of residential roof leaks. A thorough roof inspection should uncover most of these issues before they get out of hand, causing damage to your home – and your wallet.  

Faulty Flashing

Flashing consists of large metal sheets fastened to the transitional portions of your roof. During installation, these sheets are adhered with a fiber membrane designed to create a water-tight seal. Unfortunately, years of exposure to harsh elements like wind and snow can create cracks that leave your roof susceptible to water intrusion. Occasionally, flashing can also slide out of place – another common cause of a leaky roof. Loose or damaged flashing is a relatively quick and easy fix, so get a trusted residential roofer out to look at it as soon as possible.

Improper Ventilation

Whether you know it or not, your house has to breathe. Adequate ventilation is a large contributor to roof health. Good ventilation helps release extra heat and moisture from the home and permits air to circulate within the attic space and throughout the rest of the house. This process reduces the risk of mold and mildew, which tends to grow in damp, cool areas. Your Chesterfield roof inspection should uncover any red flags with your ventilation system, so be sure to cover this with your roofer. 

Eroded Valley Seals

The peaks and valleys of your roofline add architectural interest to your home, but they also create spaces that are susceptible to water buildup. Usually, leaks generating from these spaces are due to an eroded seal. Years of weather-related damage can eventually break the seal where two planes meet, making water damage inevitable. You’ll want to get these seals repaired as soon as possible. 

Poor Skylight Installation

Skylights are wonderful sources of natural light and a dream for many homeowners. However, skylights that are not properly installed are among the most common reasons that homeowners call for roof leak repair in Chesterfield. If the skylight was not fitted properly, or it was inadequately sealed, you can bet a roof leak is on the horizon. 

Clogged Gutters

Any professional on roof leak repair in Chesterfield will tell you your gutters are one of the most critical and hardest-working components of your rooftop structure. Gutters help direct water off the roof and away from your home’s foundation. On houses with flat roofs, gutters also keep water from pooling. 

Gutters clogged with leaves, sticks, and other debris cannot do the job they were designed for. A full gutter causes water to back up underneath the shingles and onto the roof. The longer the moisture sits there, the more likely you’ll end up with mold, mildew, and water leaks down below. Regular gutter cleaning and maintenance is a relatively quick and easy way to avoid potential roof leaks caused by clogged gutters.

Let Shamrock Roofing Help Prevent Roof Leaks

Shamrock Roofing and Construction is your go-to roofing company in the greater St. Louis area when it comes to residential roof maintenance. From gutter cleanings to Chesterfield roof inspection, our team is equipped for any roof leak job, including roof leak repair in Chesterfield. Contact us today!