5 Tips to Prevent Roof Leaks

Roof leaks can be a serious problem for homeowners. The damage – including mold, rotten wood and ruined insulation – can be irreparable. In many cases, these leaks occur as a result of roof age, improper maintenance, missing shingles, clogged gutters or ice dams that form in the winter. To avoid the cost of significant repairs or a full roof replacement, what steps can homeowners take to prevent roof leaks from happening?

Regularly Inspect Your Roof

Your best course of action to prevent roof leaks is to inspect the source for penetrations. When weather conditions permit, bring out the ladder and check for loose or missing shingles. These can create a clear path for water to infiltrate through the structure of your home.

Check the Attic

When a roof leaf is suspected, the most common place to start your search is the attic. If you are able to access your attic or crawlspace, go up on a regular basis to look for rotting wood, black mold and damaged insulation. These are telltale signs of a leak that you do not want to leave untreated.

Examine the Roof Flashing

Flashing is a material used to prevent water damage, commonly found around chimneys, pipes and skylights. Over time, your aluminum or steel roof flashing may loosen or warp due to the intense weather conditions of New England. As a result, water is able to seep and become trapped in these common areas of your home. When you are inspecting the roof, check if your flashing needs repairs.

Inspect Ceilings & Walls for Stains

When you notice a discoloration on the ceilings or walls that is wet to the touch, you have likely found a roof leak. At this point, it is crucial to consult with a professional, who can uncover where the leak is coming from and halt further damage. Oftentimes, the source of a
roof leak is not directly above where you notice water stains.

Prevent Ice Dams

In winter, when snow and ice accumulate on a regular basis, ice dams can form on your roof. An ice dam is a wall of ice that typically forms at the roof’s base and prevents melted precipitation from draining off. When the melted snow and ice have nowhere to go, it can get trapped below the shingles.
 
The roof is an irreplaceable part of your home. Keep it strong against seasonal conditions with weather-resistant shingles from Timberline®. To learn more about architectural roofing repairs and installation, contact the team at Steve Czerwinski Inc. today!