A leaky roof can cause water damage, resulting in costly repairs to structural elements, insulation, and interior finishes. If you notice water dripping from your roof when it rains, schedule an appointment for roof repair immediately. Here are some reasons why your roof leaks after heavy rain:
Damaged or Missing Shingles
Shingles that are exposed to the sun’s rays for an extended length of time may shatter and become brittle. As shingles age, they may begin to curl at the edges, which can create gaps and allow water to leak beneath them. If not secured properly, strong winds lift some shingles from the roof, exposing the underlying roof layers to rain.
If a few shingles are cracked or missing, a roofer removes them and installs new ones in the affected sections. For small cracks, an expert applies a roofing sealant to prevent water from penetrating your home and causing damage. If the edges are dislodged, applying roofing cement is a good option for sealing them and preventing future leaks.
Cracked Flashing
Flashing is a component that channels water away from joints and vulnerable areas such as chimneys, vents, and valleys. If flashing is cracked due to age or physical impact, it creates gaps or holes that allow water to penetrate the roof structure. Temperature fluctuations cause flashing materials to expand and contract, damaging joints and seams, which in turn contribute to leaks.
Leaves, dirt, or other debris can accumulate around flashing, corroding the material and increasing the likelihood of cracks. During a roof repair, a professional cleans the flashing to remove particles that may hinder the effectiveness of new seals. Once the area is clean, this expert adds roofing cement or caulk to seams and edges to stop water intrusion.
Sagging Roof Decks
When wood or metal supports become weak due to rot and insect damage, your roof deck can sag. Sagging creates low spots where water will pool, increasing the risk of leaks and damage to the entire roofing structure. Accumulation of snow, ice, or debris on the roof can place excessive weight on the deck, causing it to droop. To strengthen the roof structure and redistribute weight evenly across the deck, roofers install additional support beams or braces. If the current joists are degraded, new joists are added to provide extra support and restore the roof’s integrity.
Clogged Gutters
Leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in gutters, preventing water from flowing freely. When water collects on the roof surface due to bad drainage, it gets under the shingles and penetrates your roofing materials. During repair, a roofing company cleans your gutters to remove debris and facilitate proper drainage. If there are leaks and holes in your gutters, these professionals fix them to prevent water from leaking on your roof and walls. To prevent debris from entering the gutters while allowing water to flow easily, gutter guards or screens can be added.
Improper Installation
If roofing materials, such as shingles or tiles, are not installed correctly, they may not overlap properly. This misalignment can create gaps that allow water to seep underneath, leading to leaks. If the roof does not have the proper pitch, water fails to drain effectively, pooling in low areas and causing leaks. To fix misalignment issues, a roofer removes and repositions shingles or tiles to minimize spaces where water enters. For a bad roof pitch, reinforcing or rebuilding rafters helps improve drainage.
Schedule an Appointment for Roof Repair
If your roof is leaking after heavy rain, your flashing or shingles could be cracked and damaged, among other reasons. Before replacing or caulking certain areas of your roof, a professional will examine it for underlying problems.To protect your home’s integrity, call a trusted company today to book an appointment for roof repair.
