Did you know that the roofs of nearly 1 million homes are damaged by hail alone each year?
Storms and other events can cause damage to your roof. Even just normal exposure to the elements will wear at your roof over time.
At some point, water can get down inside your roof — leading to the dreaded leaking ceiling. What are the most common reasons for a leaking ceiling and what should you do about it? Keep reading to find out.
1. Broken or Missing Shingles
Do you live in an area that sees strong winds? You probably won’t find your yard littered with shingles after a storm (as long as it was installed correctly). However, it is common to see a missing shingle here and there after a particularly powerful windstorm.
Wind can also get under shingles and cause them to break without completely carrying them off the roof.
Either of these scenarios can lead to leaks. The shingles are there to help prevent water from getting down into your house. Without them, the roof won’t do its job as well.
2. Cracked Flashing
Have you ever noticed those thin pieces of metal in the valleys and at the joints of your roof? They are called flashing and their purpose is to seal the “weak” areas of your roof where water can most easily enter.
However, over time and with exposure to the elements the flashing can crack. This allows water to get down inside your roof. Eventually, that water will work its way down into your ceiling.
3. Old and Decrepit
Like everything else in life, roofs don’t last forever. Your roof takes a beating from the sun, rain, wind, snow, and other environmental factors.
Over time, the roofing materials wear down and don’t hold up as well as they used to. If you don’t replace your roof before this happens, you’ll start to see leaks.
Depending on the materials, roofs can last anywhere from 25-50 years.
4. Standing Water
Water is a powerful thing. Let it sit for long enough and it will work its way down into every crevice it can find. That’s why roofs are designed with pitches to allow the water to slough off and not remain puddled on top.
What happens when you let debris pile up in your gutters? This can inhibit the water’s flow and lead to standing water on your roof. Leave that water there for long enough and you’re going to see it coming through your ceiling.
Fix Your Leaking Ceiling Today
The one thing you should absolutely not do if you have a leaking ceiling is to ignore it. It’s not a problem that will go away on its own.
If the problem is serious enough that you’re seeing water coming through your ceiling, your best bet is to call a professional. They can determine if simple roof repairs are all that’s necessary — or a complete replacement.
Looking for professional advice and repair? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and get your roof back in shape!