3 Questions About Roof Leaks

Posted on: 25 August 2022

There are many ways that water can get into your home, with the roof being one of them. That's why it's important to know more about roof leaks so you can be well prepared as a homeowner.

Will Roof Penetrations Cause A Leak?

Any time an object sticks out from your roof it is considered a roof penetration. This includes chimneys, vents, exhaust pipes, and things of that nature. A roof penetration is where water tends to get into a home, since it is one of the biggest points of weakness. There are several things that need to be done to protect penetrations from leaking water.

It's a good idea to have an ice and water shield installed around the penetration. If water does get through, it will be an extra layer of protection that can stop water from getting in. You will also need flashing around the penetration to give it proper protection. There are styles that use silicone rubber to form a tight seal around the penetration, which is then covered with a cap to protect the rubber from the sun. 

Will Roofs Only Leak When It's Raining? 

Some people will go into their attic and see that water is leaking through the roof because the rafters are dripping water. It can be especially confusing if it's not raining outside and you are not sure how the water is getting in. This may not be a roof leak, but a problem with condensation. You will need to correct any problems that exist with ventilation so that the air can move out of the attic. If the roof has a leak, then the water will only come in when it's raining.

How Can You Locate A Roof Leak? 

There are a few ways that you can identify where a roof leak is coming from. Know that it may not always be from the point where water is getting into your home from the roof, since the leak may be higher up on the incline than where the water enters. You want to look for shingles on the outside in that general area that are damaged, loose, or cracked. Look upward from the place where the water is getting in, since it may be a straight shot down into that problematic area where there is a hole in the ice and water shield. 

Need help dealing with a roof leak? Reach out to a roofing contractor for their assistance. 

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