Why is my roof still leaking? After the severe winter we recently experienced here in Cincinnati, it is likely that you may wake up one morning and notice spots on your ceiling or water coming in through a ceiling fixture or fan, like the two pictures below. Maybe you have never experienced a roof leak before … so why now?
Roof components are like any other part of your home. They wear out in time, especially when exposed to the elements.
While there are many causes of roof leaks, I thought I would focus on the top two that I commonly see this time of year. The first cause is some sort of metal flashing malfunction and the other is rubber vent boot failure. OK, I apologize – let me define those two terms.
Roof Flashing: Roof flashing is simply thin sheets of aluminum or steel used in places to cover holes and gaps that shingles can not.
Vent Boot: Combines roof flashing with a large rubber collar that seals protruding vent pipes from the roof.
These two components are particularly susceptible to storm damage and exposure over time to the elements. When they fail, they allow water to enter the home, thereby destroying your drywall, insulation, framing and sometimes causing mold to grow. Ensuring that these roof components are maintained and / or repaired quickly if they fail, will ensure you avoid any roof leaks before they can damage your home.
In the video and pictures linked at the bottom of this article, you will be able to see an example of flashing that has failed. Did you notice all the gaps where water can get in? During the winter, water freezing and the consequent expansion of ice only widens these pathways, exacerbating the leak. You can see in the picture where someone has attempted to seal this flashing with mortar and caulk. While this picture looks like a mess, it is actually easily repaired.
Also contained in the blog and video is a common example of a failed vent boot. Notice the rubber collar surrounding the vent pipe has cracked?
Often times the rubber vent collar has deteriorated to the point you can actually poke your finger through them. Consequently, water travels right down the pipe and into your home, since that collar is the only barrier between you and the sky.
Do not Ignore the Roof Leak
Roof leaks are like cancer – they do not typically get better with time. Acting quickly can ensure you avoid a major home repair bill from the consequent damage a roof leak may cause. Better yet, proactive maintenance to ensure your roof flashing is properly attached and vent books are in serviceable condition will spare you the heartache of waking up one morning and discovering water stains on the ceiling, as in the pictures above.
Roof Leak Repair Tips
If you have experienced a roof leak, wait to repair the drywall damage until you are certain the leak has stopped. There is no sense paying to have something fixed twice! And finally, if you have not had your roof inspected recently, invite one of our craftsmen to take a look at it for you while he is there. It only takes a few minutes and solving a minor problem now can save you thousands of dollars in unexpected repair bills in the future.
Let ProMaster Do My Roof Repair
ProMaster Home Repair & Handyman of Cincinnati is a great choice for those who do not have the time or inclining to perform their own roof repairs. Whether you notice a leak or missing shingle, ProMaster has a skilled team of professionals who understand that attention to detail and thorough analysis are the keys to success in solving any roof leak. Our multi-skilled craftsmen represent a distinct advantage over other repair contractors due to their ability to perform numerous tasks associated with a roof repair repair project.
To view the video and associated pictures, click here: Get Ready For Roof Leaks
