Aside from the annoyance factor, a leaky roof is something that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. In this article, you’ll learn about three of the most common causes for roof leaks and how to fix them.
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Your Flashing Has Cracked
What Does It Look Like: Flashing are thin pieces of metal that are installed under shingles and on the joints of your roof in order to create a water-resistant barrier, which can be concealed or exposed. If exposed, they will look like long runs of sheet metal and, if concealed, they will have a rubberized coating overtop. Broken flashing will feature large cracks
Why It Happens: Roofers often use tar to seal the flashing together and that can corrode over time. In the event that your flashing is left exposed, elements like wind and rain could be the reason behind its crack.
How To Fix It: (Via The Family Handyman): Once you locate the source of the leak, pry up the nails used to secure the old flashing. Lift any shingles out of the way and remove the cracked segment. Gently put a new run of flashing in its place, fasten the new flashing in the same pattern as your old piece using roofing nails. Then, apply a coat of roofing sealant to the nail heads. Source: Freshome
Ice Dam Build-Up
An ice dam is basically a ridge made of ice which is formed at the roof’s edge and prevents water and melting snow from draining off. Along with the water which is sitting on the roof’s surface, a build-up of pressure from the ice on the roof can also cause damage. Since the heat from your house and attic is above freezing, when there is snowfall on your roof it will melt where it runs between the roof’s surface and the snow until it hits the exterior edge where it will refreeze back into ice. The ice at the edge of the roof should be removed by a roof rake, as a build-up will prevent any other snow, ice and water from being properly drained from your roof, resulting in added pressure which could lead to cracks, leaks and other issues. If you can see an ice dam forming from the ground, the best thing to do is treat it as quickly as possible with a product designed to melt it. Source: ArchitectureLab
Debris
Buildup of debris such as twigs, leaves or pine needles can trap water against the roof and allow it to seep in by capillary action. It’s important to keep the roof clear to permit water to run off quickly. Trimming overhanging tree branches will make it easier to keep your roof free of debris. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate
If you are looking for honest and highly-trained individuals to do some repairs or maintenance work not just for your roof but anywhere in your home, contact us!
Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains Ltd.
168 W 71st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5X 4S7
(604) 360-2114
