Homes are typically a family’s largest investment. In an effort to preserve that investment, here is a list of indicators that you have a roof leak. Keep this list handy. It could mean the difference between doing a quick repair or a major remodel.
1. Clogged Gutters
Gutters help water travel away from the roof. If there is a blockage they get clogged and the travel stops. Rainwater will then pool in one area of the roof and can create the leak. Leaves sticking out of a gutter are a good sign showing the blockage. They need to be cleaned out.
2. Broken Shingles
High winds and heavy rains can do a number on your shingles. This one is easy to spot. You can identify missing shingles by seeing different-colored patches on your roof. Also, look around your yard for shingles.
3. Cracked Vent Booting
Roof vents are those things that look like small pipes sticking out of the top of your roof. Leaks leave dark spots and mustiness. Flashing are used to seal roof vents around the opening and slipping a tight, rubber boot over the area where the pipe peeks out of the roof. Flashing over time can break or the roof can decay.
4. Cracked Flashing
Weather can corrode the tar that seals the flashing together. Flashing creates a water-resistant barrier, which can be concealed or exposed. Flashing are thin pieces of metal that are installed under shingles and on the joints of your roof. Broken flashing will feature large cracks.
5. Cracked Chimney
Look for signs of wear and tear along the mud cap, or mortared area around the top of the chimney. Look for holes in the mortared joints where the chimney connects with the roof. Mortar erodes easily in harsh weather conditions.
6. Improperly Sealed Valleys
The Roof valley is an area where two planes of roof come together which are usually sloped. Rainwater can get inside as it runs down the roof if the valleys are not sealed together properly. Search for wet spots that run along the seams of your roof to detect a problem.
7. Skylights Installed Improperly
Two main causes of this leak. Decayed insulation along the skylights edges or improperly measuring and fitting the skylights upon installation. These are easy to spot. Leaks and wet spots are the signs but near the top of the skylight could indicate a flashing issue.
8. Attic Condensation
Condensation in your attic will form and moisture will follow especially during extreme hot summers and cold winters. A sign of a leak is mold growth or mildew which will give off a strong, musty odor from the attic.
9. Ice Dam Buildup [Rare in Florida]
In the event that Florida experiences a major dip in temperature, this could happen. A ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off is an Ice Dam. The weight of the ice and/or water just sitting can damage the roof. Heat from your attic and home house can cause snowfall to melt. Water will run between the roof’s surface and the snow and will refreeze into ice once it hit’s the roof’s exterior edge.
If you notice any of these roof leak indicators, No. 1 Home Roofing is ready to evaluate your roof and help you to determine whether it can be repaired and to install a new roof.
No. 1 Home Roofing is a family owned and operated roofing company conveniently located on US Highway 19 in Palm Harbor, Florida. We are dedicated to providing top quality workmanship and materials to ensure that your new roof is done right. We specialize in shingle, tile, and flat roof installation, repairs, and maintenance. Contact us for an appointment and/or estimate at 727-781-7663.