Broken and damaged shingles in the center of a roof

Roof leaks are never fun. Not only will it cost you time and money, but it'll cost you a lot of wasted energy as well. No one wants to go running for a bucket every time it rains or snows.

Roof leaks occur on both old and new roofs. In an effort to save you time and energy trying to figure out why you have a leak, Graves Bros. Home Improvement has compiled a list of the 6 Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks.

1. Broken Shingles

Having broken shingles is one of the most common causes of a leaky roof. It's very important that whenever a major storm with high winds is in the forecast, you check your shingles' integrity.

2. Broken Flashing

Flashing are thin pieces of metal that are installed under shingles and on the joints of your roof in order to create a water-resistant barrier. When exposed, they'll look like long runs of sheet metal. Broken flashing can cause roof leaks.

3. Attic Condensation

A strong, musty odor emerging from the attic is a key sign that water has gotten inside. It's not unheard of to experience condensation and mold in your attic because the attic is trapped between indoor and outdoor temperatures. When these two extremes happen, condensation will form and moisture will follow.

4. Clogged Gutters

Not only can clogged gutters cause a leak from the roof, but they can also cause a flood in the basement. That's why cleaning the gutters every Fall is imperative.

There are a lot of tools that can clean out gutters. A hose can do a lot of good to wash leaves and other debris out, but other tools like a blower and a power washer will do the trick. But who wants to waste precious time cleaning gutters? Cleaning out the gutters is now a thing of the past. Learn More Here

5. Cracked Chimney

If your home has a chimney, look for signs of cracks around the mud cap or around the top of the chimney. On occasion, there are holes in the mortared joints where the chimney connects with the roof. As mentioned above, be on the lookout for loose flashing and shingles in the surrounding area of your chimney.

6. Improperly Installed Skylights

Leaks from the skylights should be very easy to spot. If you notice wet spots or leaks around the sides of the skylights, you know the cause of your leak. The skylights were improperly measured and fitted upon installation. Keep in mind, wet spots or leaks near the skylight may also be a flashing issue.

Whether you have an old roof or a new roof, wear and tear are inevitable with heavy winds, rainstorms, and long winters. But roof leaks should be avoided by regular maintenance and upkeep.

If you are currently experiencing a roof leak, it is recommended that you hire a professional like Graves Bros. to handle the repairs. Need us to inspect your roof? No problem, contact Graves Bros. today for a free quote or to set up an appointment.