Why Is My Roof Leaking?
Extreme weather conditions account for the majority of roof leaks. The unpredictable Michigan weather, where it’s snowing one day and then 60 degrees the day after, can wreak havoc on your roof. If left untreated, roof leaks can cause major damage to your home if it isn’t repaired properly. There could be various factors as to why your roof is leaking- below are just a few more issues that could cause this problem.
Missing Shingles
After a strong storm, the wind can lift shingles off your roof causing exposed areas that aren’t visible to you. These can cause pesky leaks and since water travels it can be difficult to identify the source, so a missing shingle or two could be the culprit. It’s important to replace these shingles before the leak gets any worse.
Cracked Flashing
The thin pieces of metal that are installed under shingles and on the joints of your roof are called flashing. This will create a water-resistant barrier that can help prevent water from creeping into your home. However, broken flashing will exhibit large cracks thus causing a leak. If the flashing is exposed, wind, rain, or ice could be the reason why it has cracked.
Age
Depending on how old your roof is, wear and tear could be the cause of your leak. An asphalt roof can last on average 15-20 years, so if you have an older home this could be the issue for your leaky roof. As roofing materials age, they become less effective. Between temperature fluctuations and harsh weather, this can cause the materials to weaken over time.
There are some concerns if you leave your leaky roof untreated for an extended amount of time. Doing so can cause some unexpected dangers such as a fire hazard for exposed wires, health concerns with mold growth, and a higher utility bill. It’s important to get your roof treated immediately if you notice a leak.
Don’t let your roof be left untreated, if you need roof leak detection, contact the expert roof inspectors at RoofAdvisor today.