Roofing Problems: Explanations To Roof Leaks

Roof leaks are the reality of every residential and commercial property, but with regular maintenance, structural damage can be prevented. Property is an investment, so it is worth budgeting a sum every year for roof repair and maintenance, whether for a home or business. Doing the maintenance and repairs yourself is a physical and financial risk, while professionals such as Bob Harvey Roofing have the knowledge and tools to do the work. As a proactive property owner, what are the potential causes of roof leaks you should be aware of? 

The Age Of The Roof 

Do you have an older home? Did you notice bits of mortar, slate, or tile lying on the ground or in the gutters? Roofing materials degrade over time, as roofs are continuously exposed to elements such as the sun, hailstorms, strong windstorms, snow or ice. Even a little moisture left unattended will degrade roofing and eventually cause rot, mold or algae. Roof age is a defining factor in how often maintenance is required. Although modern technology increases the lifespan of roofing materials, regular maintenance will prevent leaks no matter the age of the roof.

Broken Shingles 

Low-quality materials, improper installation, and extreme weather conditions could cause broken shingles. A roof has to last for decades, but low-quality materials will cut its lifetime down considerably, resulting in early roofing material breaks and tears. When a roofing contractor such as Bob Harvey Roofing moves around on an asphalt shingle roof, they take care not to damage shingles or any other materials. 

Skilled professionals know that tile cracks might not show immediately, but in time will cause shingles to break. Extreme hail storms and high winds might lift shingles and break them, while branches broken during such storms can penetrate the shingle, causing damage. 

Holes In The Roof

Severe weather events are the cause of significant holes in roofs. When heavy storms uproot trees planted close to buildings, they might fall on the property, causing extensive damage. Improperly installed roof vents or skylights could leave smaller holes that, if left unattended, become bigger, resulting in roof leaks. Have you recently removed or installed a satellite dish or antenna? It might create weak spots where the roof repair work was not done professionally, and water will penetrate the roof.  

A Faulty Chimney

A roaring fire on a cold winter’s day is a pleasure, but faulty chimneys can cause roof leaks. What are some of the ways a chimney might leak?

• The metal flashing surrounding the chimney pulls loose
• Mortar joints of brick chimneys can get saturated with heavy rains
• Water comes down the top of the chimney
• Water gets into the chimney siding. 

Some chimney repairs can be done by a roofing contractor, but others must be done by experts. If Bob Harvey Roofing cannot assist, we will refer you to a reputable service provider.

Clogged Gutters

Trees are home to birds, butterflies and insects, but unfortunately the joy is accompanied by falling leaves, especially with deciduous trees during fall. When trees are planted close to a building, leaves will clog the gutters either by falling directly into them or sliding down the roof. It is not only leaves that clog gutters but also debris such as soil, seeds and even bird feathers. 

How do clogged gutters cause roof leaks? Gutters are designed for rainwater to flow away from the roof, and when it is clogged, there is a water buildup that might penetrate the structure.

Bob Harvey Roofing offers professional roofing services to homeowners and business owners in Utah. We understand a roof is an investment, and that is why we deliver the best work possible. Are you upgrading a commercial building and want TPO Membrane for the flat roof? We can help. Are you a homeowner with roof leaks?Contact Bob Harvey Roofing today.