There are multiple potential causes for why a roof may become compromised by leaks. Below you’ll find a few common reasons:
Damaged or Broken Shingles
Broken shingles should be easy to spot. Since the shingles used for a roof are of the same color, spotting missing or impaired shingles shouldn’t be too difficult. Be on the lookout for pieces of broken shingles and or parts of a roof which are exposed.
Cracked or Weakened Flashing
When shingles become impaired, water can seep behind flashing. Flashing is a piece of metal installed underneath shingles and joints to prevent water from entering vulnerable areas of a roof such as low points or the edges of vents and skylights. Flashing can become defective over time, with the tar substance used to secure it splitting or decaying due to icy winters and sweltering summers. In this case, flashing material can be penetrated by rainwater and or melted ice which will cause mold growth and or leaks.
Ice Dam Formation
Ice dams are formed when the buildup of heat inside a home melts snow on a roof. Changes in temperature and air pressure cause melted snow to refreeze once it gets to the edge of a roof. This can compromise the structural integrity of a home if the accrued ice dams are heavy enough. Additionally, water that pools in the ice dam can gradually seep behind shingles and potentially into a home.
Unsealed valleys
Water can also pool where two parts of a roof merge at a low point, otherwise known as a “valley.” If this valley isn’t sealed correctly, rainwater and melted ice can enter into a home. Also, as mentioned, different sealants can wear out and crack, leaving a home vulnerable to leakage.
Structurally Compromised Skylights
When noticing moisture around a skylight, it may mean that the skylight itself is compromised, or it can indicate issues with the flashing surrounding the skylight. This is a warning sign that the skylight itself may be impaired and or that a leak can come about around the skylight.
These issues are routinely identified and corrected by our team of experienced roofing professionals at TopLine Home Improvement. For the most reputable name in home improvement in Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens, look no further than TopLine. We offer free roof inspections and estimates and can provide anything from minor repairs to a whole new roof. Call today at (718) 769-4555.
