Top 4 Common Causes of a Leaking Roof

No matter how well-made a roof is, time will eventually take its toll. After years of protecting your home or business from the elements, the roof will begin to leak. The longer a roof has been in place, the more likely it is to start leaking. 

Even the best-made roofs will eventually succumb to the elements, and you may need to call a roofer to patch up the leaks. A professional roofing company will thoroughly inspect your roof and come up with a suitable solution.

However, if you want to avoid similar problems in the future, it’s best to inspect your roof regularly to prevent problems from escalating and resulting in heftier repair jobs. Keep in mind that leaks will always start as small holes before growing into something more significant, so fixing them as soon as possible is essential. Here are four common causes of a leaking roof that you should watch out for.

1. Poor Installation

If you just had your roof installed and are already seeing signs of leaking, it’s likely caused by poor installation. Poorly installed roofs can cause many problems and lead to leaks. This can happen when the shingles are not properly sealed, the flashing is not installed correctly, or the roofing material is not adequately vented. 

You can call the roofing company that made the poor installation and have them fix it for you at no additional cost. However, if they did a lousy job the first time, they will likely make the same mistake the next time. For your peace of mind, go for a reputable Springfield roofing company, such as Over the Top Roofing, which will ensure that your roofing job is correctly done the first time.

2. Aging Materials

As your roof ages, the material can become brittle or worn down, resulting in cracks, holes, or gaps that allow water to enter. Even the most high-quality materials will eventually fail, so keeping track of your roof’s age is crucial. Most high-quality roofs last around 20 years, while lower-quality roofs may only last 10-15 years. If your roof is older than that, consider replacing it. 

If you decide to replace your roof, make sure to pick quality materials rated to last and a reliable roofing contractor who can install them properly. This will help ensure that your roof stays watertight and can last for many years.

3. Weather Damage

Wind, rain, and hail can damage a roof over time and cause leaks. High winds can even blow shingles off, and hail can create holes in the roof. Call a Springfield roofing company immediately if you’ve just had a storm pass by in your area. Even if your roof isn’t leaking yet, you may already have minor damage on your roof that can quickly progress into more severe damage if left unaddressed. To prevent small leaks from progressing further, have a roofing contractor look at your roof immediately.

4. Clogged Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause water to back onto the roof and seep through cracks or holes, leading to a leaking roof. Not only can this cause costly water damage, but it can also lead to mold growth and other problems. A blocked gutter can also cause water to run down the side of your house, eroding the foundation and damaging the siding.

Conclusion

Leaking roofs are a common problem that various factors, such as poor installation, aging materials, or weather damage, can cause. If you’re experiencing a leaking roof, calling a roofing contractor to fix the issue quickly is essential to prevent further damage. Having a professional roofer  inspect, identify, and repair the source of the leak can help you ultimately save both time and money in the long run.

If you’re experiencing a leaking roof in Springfield, don’t wait any longer to get it fixed. Our experienced roofers will inspect, identify, and fix the source of the leak to protect your home and keep it safe from water damage. Contact Over the Top Roofing & Restoration, a Springfield roofing company today to take advantage of our reliable roofing inspection and repair services.