Leading Causes of Damage and Roof Leaks in Gilbert, Arizona
No one likes to experience roof damage and leaks, which can severely damage the roof and affect its functionality. Not only will this most likely cause expensive roof repairs, it can also have the household uncomfortable. If you detect damage or leaks, even small ones, then you need to contact professionals to fix the problem efficiently.
While leaking roofs are worrying, it doesn’t automatically mean your roof is failing. There are various reasons behind roof damage and leaks, many of which are easy to prevent and/or fix.
So what are the leading causes of damage and roof leaks in Gilbert, Arizona? Read on to find out!
Leading Causes of Damage and Roof Leaks in Gilbert, Arizona
When you notice water coming to your house, then it most likely means you have a roof leak. While they are straightforward, there are various reasons why your roof is letting water in the house. By identifying the common reasons of roof damage and leaks, you can find the solution right away.
Here are the reasons behind your roof leaks:
Missing or Damaged Shingles
There are a lot of reasons why sections of your shingles end up missing. It can be from the high winds or heavy rains, which potentially rip shingles off a roof.
In Arizona, it is most likely that your roof is reaching its lifespan, meaning you require a roof replacement. Regardless of what caused missing or damaged shingles, you’ll need to have new ones installed immediately to prevent water damage.
Clogged or Damaged Gutters
While some people may not consider their gutters as part of their roof system, these actually play a crucial part to keep leaks away. Gutters will take rainwater away from your roof and home’s foundation, preventing water from going under your shingles.
Gutters can end up being clogged from debris, twigs, and other foreign items, eventually causing rainwater to back up. This ends up with water going to your shingles and the attach, leaking through.
Valleys Aren’t Sealed Properly
Roof valleys are where two of your roof planes will come together, creating an inverted corner. Valleys can add dynamic rooflines, though these areas are weaker compared to other parts as they collect water. If you see leaks coming from valleys, then you’ll see water running where the tear is.
You may need new leak barriers, depending on the severity of your house leak. After placing a new barrier, there will be a new layer of shingles to keep water moving down the roof.
Skylights Are Improperly Installed
When you install skylights properly, this will add natural light to places around your house that are dark. However, if they are not installed properly, you’ll notice wet spots or flooded floors whenever it rains. If there is no flashing issue, then it may help to reseal your skylight.
However, if your skylight wasn’t fitted properly, add more flashing to prevent water from running in from the skylight. Worst-case scenario, you’ll need to install a new skylight to prevent further water leaks.
Through Use and General Wear
A lot of homeowners prefer to maintain their roofs on their own to avoid high professional fees. This can save money, but if you aren’t sure of what you’re doing, it may do more harm than good.
When you walk on your roof, it can cause damage to your shingles and underlying structures. If the roof already has damage, then one misstep ends up causing a major leak or problem you can’t identify.
This is why hiring professionals like Stradling Roofing is highly recommended. You are paying for professionals who have the training and knowledge to ensure your roof will be in good condition.
Neglect and/or Carelessness
If you don’t know it yet, your roof requires constant care and maintenance. You’ll need to have your roof inspected for any cracks, leaks, and other signs. Of damage.
If you neglect your roof and fail to inspect it regularly, then it can end up with you ignoring minor issues. These minor issues can grow over time when you neglect them, which ends up with you paying for damaging consequences.
Another cause of damage is carelessness. While it’s fine to walk on the roof alone for inspection, it can’t tolerate heavy traffic. If not protected by walk pads, don’t walk on the roof with friends or mishandle heavy parts.
The Weather Was Bad
Harsh weather is probably one of the major reasons behind roof damage. When your roof is constantly exposed to snow, water, heat, and other harsh weather conditions, it tears down your roof. As a result, it may become permanently damaged.
In certain areas, snow would accumulate on drains and gutters, which leads to water pooling. Violent hurricanes and tornadoes may demolish roofs instantly. Or, when you live in the hot Gilbert, Arizona, the heat can damage your roof over time.
In Gilbert, Arizona, the heat would be a common cause of damage. Year-round cloudless skies may end up being hard on roofs, being exposed to UV rays daily. This will have the materials deteriorate, so it’s best to inspect it for damage now and then.
Cracked Flashing
Flashings are pieces of metal installed around your roof’s penetrations. These act as a barrier to prevent rainwater from getting into your shingles and the roof’s weak areas.
Over time, your flashing’s metal would corrode away or suffer from cracked seals. This ends up with rain gaining access to your attic and living area. If your roof is still in good condition, you can replace the old flashings instead. Your roof would stop leaking after your new flashing is sealed.
Wrapping It Up
Hopefully, my list of leading causes of damage and roof leaks in Gilbert, Arizona helped you out. Do continue staying informed about how to keep your roof in good condition here in our blogs. And if you need to avail professional roofing services, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate today.
