Once you hear it, your feet hit the ground: Roof Leak Repairs. Not only do they jeopardize the structural integrity of the house, but they can also result in expensive repairs if not attended to in a timely fashion. Most roof leaks happen not because of general wear and tear, but for specific areas of roof — like chimneys, skylights, valleys and flashing. Knowing where leaks tend to develop can give homeowners an idea of what to look for and when to bring in the pros.
Here’s a look at some the leak-prone areas in a home and their importance.
Common Areas Roof Leak Repairs Are Needed
Leaks Around a Chimney Chimneys are a common source of roof leaks. They add character and warmth to Home but also create gaps and weak spots in the home where water can penetrate. Common problems around chimneys include broken flashing or gaps between the chimney and your roofing materials.
Why It Happens:
Flashing around a chimney (the metal that seals the seam between the chimney and the roof) can wear out from years of exposure to the elements, causing cracks and leaks. Also, mortar and bricks may wear away, permitting water to seep through tiny crevices.
Repair Solution:
When you have a chimney leak, a roofer will typically replace or repair the flashing, seal gaps, or even apply a waterproof coating to the bricks and mortar to prevent new leaks from forming.
Skylight Leaks & Roof Leak Repairs
Skylights provide great natural lighting but could also be a vulnerability in your roof.
Skylight Leaks
Like other roof-mounted objects, skylights allow natural light into a home, but because they disturb the surface of the roof, they are prone to leaks if seals wear out or if they are improperly installed.
Why It Happens:
Instead, skylights are sealed to the roof structure to keep water out. These seals can crack or wear down over time, leading to leaks. The direction in which the roof slopes, and where the water runs also plays a role in how long a skylight lasts.
Repair Solution:
Fix a skylight leak by resealing the edges or replacing the flashing around it. Regular checkups are useful to detect early signs of decay and prevent issues from getting worse.
Types of Roof Valley Leaks and What to Do About Them
Roof valleys, the angle where two roof slopes meet, are susceptible to leaking from heavy water runoff.
Valley Leaks
These places where two slopes of a roof meet are called roof valleys and are a natural pathway for water runoff. Valleys are necessary to control water as it runs down the roof, but they can leak if damaged or gummed up with debris.
Why It Happens:
Valleys tend to be more exposed to water run-off than other places on the roof. If the shingles or flashing in this area are damaged or deteriorate, water can pool and create leaks. And, build-up of debris can cause water to pool, increasing pressure on the valley’s structure.
Repair Solution:
To repair valley leaks, you may need to replace damaged shingles, clear away debris, and strengthen the area with replaced flashing. Regular routine checks are needed in this area to identify potential problems early.
