Let’s face it, it’s no fun having to run for a bucket every time it starts to rain. Having to stay on top of the weather forecast just to prevent serious water damage is simply annoying and impractical. Even if the leak seems small, it could be a sign of a bigger issue. Either way, it will cost you money.
In an effort to save you money on your biggest investment – your home – we’ve created a list of the top 3 causes of roof leaks and what you can do about it. No matter the age of your roof, knowing what to look out for will always come in handy. It could mean the difference between a roof replacement and a quick repair.
Blocked Gutters
If you can see leaves sticking out of your gutters, the cause is obvious. If you don’t notice any leaves but find a lack of water flowing out of the downspout during a rainstorm, you’re probably facing clogged gutters. Since gutters are supposed to help water travel away from the roof, a blocked gutter will stop the free flow and water will accumulate in one area. This might cause water to seep through the cracks and enter your home.
Broken or Missing Shingles
Broken shingles are easy to spot since they are the exterior layer of the roof. Missing shingles can be identified through patches on the roof that vary in colour. The elements of mother nature, like high winds and heavy rainstorms, are the number one culprit for broken or missing shingles which is why regular roof maintenance is a must for every homeowner.
Skylights Not Installed Properly
Skylights are an excellent solution to adding more natural light to your home but if not installed properly can become a major problem. If you notice wet spots around your skylights, you’ve found the cause of your leak. That said, leaks near the top of your skylight might indicate a flashing issue instead. Measuring and fitting skylights improperly during installation might be one reason or damaged insulation around the skylight’s edges.
My Roof Is Leaking What Should I Do
You have two options when it comes to fixing roof leaks. You can either attempt doing it yourself or you could hire a professional to do it for you. If you’re not clued up with home renovations, the latter would be your best bet. If you want to avoid roof leaks altogether, you might want to consider hiring someone that specialises in roof waterproofing.
For reliable and affordable waterproofing services in Johannesburg and surrounding areas, speak to the team at HydroStop SA today!