“My roof is leaking. What can I do?” Roof leaks are problematic for homeowners. A leaking roof can lead to far more significant damage, including structural problems and mold intrusion. In a scenario where the leak results from a storm, emergency roof leak repair can be vital to mitigate further issues. At O’LYN Roofing, we proactively address roof leaks with permanent solutions, not temporary fixes.
What Causes A Leaking Roof?
The source of a roof leak depends on the underlying issue. A roof leak typically does not occur without unresolved problems festering for weeks, months, or even years. Consider the following reasons for a leaky roof:
Broken, Loose, Or Missing Shingles
Damaged shingles are the most frequent cause of roof leaks. Even tiny cracks in the shingle surface can invite moisture intrusion through the surface. If you observe shingle cracking or curling, the roof requires immediate attention. Additionally, if a shingle has shed significant amounts of granules, it becomes far more susceptible to breaking, blistering, or peeling. Loose or missing shingles will allow water to penetrate the sublayers.
Compromised Flashing
Roof flashing (manufactured from metal) offers a water-resistant barrier adjacent to chimneys, vents, valleys, and other vulnerable areas. High-quality flashing prevents water from penetrating through joints, seams, and edges. It also protects the roof against buckling, cracking, and warping. If the flashing becomes dented, loose, or compromised, it will allow moisture to enter through gaps or openings that are no longer airtight.
Excess Gutter Debris
Rain gutters safeguard your home from moisture intrusion by channeling and diverting water away from your home’s roof, exterior walls, and foundation to a safe runoff or collection area. If your gutters or downspouts become clogged with debris, such as leaves, twigs, dirt, etc., rainwater and snowmelt no longer have an unimpeded means to drain. Instead, water will back up and redirect in other ways, including penetrating subsurface roof layers.
Exposed Nailheads Or Fasteners
Nails or other fasteners secure the surface layer (typically asphalt shingles) to the underlayment, roof deck, and other sublayers. Unfortunately, nails and fasteners can weaken or loosen over time, resulting in nail pops. Also, nails will often rust or deteriorate in a way that creates gaps between the shingle and the roof deck. These issues create entry points for outside moisture to pierce the outer material, resulting in destructive roof leaks.
Improperly Installed Components
Was flashing not installed correctly? Was there improper sealing around vents, pipes, chimneys, or skylights? Were nails driven too high or at incorrect angles? Was there a poorly attached underlayment or waterproof barrier? A homeowner expects a reasonable standard of performance from a roofing contractor. However, many roofers fail to fulfill their responsibilities. Eventually, inadequate installation will create real problems, including roof leaks.
Insufficient Attic Or Roof Ventilation
A home must breathe correctly and efficiently. Poor ventilation will trap moisture in the attic or other spaces adjacent to the roof. Excess condensation buildup may damage the roof’s sublayers, including the decking, and lead to their deterioration (i.e., rotting). To resolve this issue, a homeowner should check for blockages in vents, assess the roof and attic for signs of moisture accumulation, and verify that the roof possesses sufficient ventilation.
How To Address Roof Leaks
As soon as you observe a leak, take immediate action. Do not delay. Delaying resolution exasperates the problem. Make your first call to a qualified contractor with knowledge and experience inspecting and repairing roofing systems. Most roofers do not regularly fix roofs. Steer clear of them. Focus on identifying a roofing company that prioritizes repairing leaky roofs with permanent remedies.
A roofer will comprehensively assess your roofing system to pinpoint the root cause of any leak. This evaluation may involve accessing your home’s interior spaces, including the attic. This process needs to be thorough. You don’t want a misdiagnosis. The roofing contractor will report any inspection findings to you and provide recommendations, including fixing or replacing damaged areas.
Emergency Roof Leak Repair
When a storm strikes your home suddenly and unexpectedly, your world can become turmoil. What is your next move? If your roof suffers the adverse effects of wind, hail, rain, lightning, or another weather force, don’t hesitate to contact a reputable roof repair company. An established roofer will dispatch a knowledgeable technician to assess the immediate situation, take remedial action, and prepare a long-term roof repair, restoration, or replacement plan.
Choosing A Roofing Contractor
Since 1974, O’LYN Roofing has met the roofing needs of homeowners and businesses in Greater Boston and MetroWest. We are the local roofing company that more residents of this region trust to inspect, repair, and replace their residential and commercial roofing systems. We work efficiently and affordably to ensure the best possible results for you.
Contact O’LYN Roofing today to learn more about our roofing services or to schedule an appointment and receive a free estimate.
