Wondering “why does my roof leak in heavy rains?” Let Camden Roofing & Construction help you out! Any homeowner knows how stressful it is to run for a bucket every time it rains. Finding out what is causing the problem and finding a solution is just as stressful.
Roof leaks can never be accurately diagnosed before an inspection; however, there are a few reasons why heavy rain causes roof leaks.
With over ten years of experience, Rescue My Roof has provided homeowners like you with transparent roofing education. Here’s what you need to know to figure out the cause of your leaky roof.
In case of heavy rain, you may experience roof leaks due to six reasons.
Why is Your Roof Leaking? 6 Potential Causes
A leaky roof in heavy rain can be caused by several problems. While it can be challenging to diagnose the source, here are a few possible causes.
Chimneys
Heavy rain brings chimney leaks.
There could be a variety of reasons why a chimney leaks during heavy rain. The flashing surrounding the chimney might be rusted or pulled away.
Water can also enter your home through the mortar joints when there has been prolonged rain.
There is a possibility of rust or cracking at the top of your chimney if water enters from the top.
Rusted or Cracked Roof Flashing
The rusted flashing around your chimney has already been discussed as a cause of roof leaks, but flashing surrounds other important roof components as well.
Roof flashing is an integral part of the roof system, which helps to keep water out of your home. When it becomes old or damaged, it can cause water to enter through the openings and cause leaks.
Roof flashing is used to provide a weatherproof seal at the edges of the roof, where different materials meet, or where the roof intersects with a wall. If it is not installed correctly, water can seep through the gaps and cause leaks in the roof.
You will only know whether flashing is being blamed for leaks or the extent of the issue once you perform a roof inspection. There is always a need for a flashing repair or replacement in these situations, regardless of the circumstances.
If the flashing needs to be sealed temporarily, caulk can do the trick. However, you should call an expert roofing contractor for an estimate.
Pipe Boot Failure
A failed boot around a plumbing pipe or other roof penetration is the third most common cause of roof leaks.
Roof pipes are protected from the water by boots around their base. However, rubber boots can crack under prolonged sunlight.
As soon as the pipe cracks, water runs down into the room below. Depending on the location, weather, and animal infestations, pipe boots last between ten and fifteen years.
Pipe boots never last a roof’s lifespan. For this reason, roof maintenance is essential to prevent leaks before they start.
Improperly Driven Roofing Nails
A popped-up nail or an improperly driven roofing nail can cause your roof to leak during heavy rain.
Unless nails are driven in far enough, their heads work their way back up through the shingles. As the lifted nail falls down your roof, rainwater gathers around it and follows it inside your house.
Roof and decking nails can leak if they are not snug and aren’t overdriven. It shouldn’t matter how the nails are installed if they hit good woof.
Skylights
Skylights can also leak during heavy rain.
Installation errors can occur if the installer fails to measure the skylight properly or if the flashing kit is not installed correctly. In either case, the improper installation will not provide the necessary protection against water leakage and will cause the sealant to wear down over time.
In the event a professional makes a mistake, you can, too. Get an inspection and repair estimate from a contractor as soon as possible.
Debris in Roof Valleys
In the valleys of your roof, debris can build up from a lack of maintenance. As debris sits for too long, leaks can occur.
There is a dam of debris blocking the flow of water, which causes water to pool and back up onto the roof due to the blockage.
If water sits for a long enough period, it will find the most straightforward path into your home. It could be a blacked-out nail or even under your shingles.
Keep your roof and gutters clean with annual roofing maintenance and inspections to avoid problems like leaks.
How to Prevent Water Damage from A Leak While Waiting for Repairs
Whenever you’re dealing with active leaks while waiting for roof repairs, tarps, and buckets can help. A tarp should be placed over the affected area, and a bucket should be used to catch water.
Keeping a damp area dry can also be accomplished by using a dehumidifier.
Getting Roof Repairs for a Leaking Roof
Chimneys and pipe boots can experience cracks or separations, which allow water to get in. Nails can come loose and corrode, creating holes in the roof. Skylights and roof valleys can suffer from faulty seals, and caulking can wear away over time. A roofing contractor is better equipped to identify and repair these issues than a DIYer.
For more information, contact Camden Roofing & Construction, LLC in Charlotte and Raleigh, NC at 919-729-5050.
