Blog

Sometimes it starts with a sound: “drip, drip, drip” coming from a room. Other times it’s a puddle you notice on the floor. You’ve got a leak coming from the roof. Out comes the mop and bucket to catch the water. What do you do now?

The first thing to do is to keep calm! A leaking roof isn’t the end of the world and it doesn’t mean you need to start packing your bags. There are common reasons why a roof may be leaking. The important part is to find the underlying cause for the water leak. By catching the problem early, you’ll be able to prevent any significant damage to your roof and your home.

Aging Roof

One common cause for the leak is that your roof may have outlived its function. Over time, the roofing materials on your home break down as a result of UV rays and the impact from outdoor elements such as ice and snow. Shingles can become brittle and if they break, you risk exposing your home to water damage. If you’ve found pieces of shingles in your yard, or notice that your roof appears uneven, you’ll want to look at getting your roof repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Wind Damage

Wind from thunderstorms and winter squalls can also wreak havoc on your roof. Not only can wind unfasten shingles, but it can also loosen roof flashings that are designed to protect the sections of your roof that are the most susceptible to water damage. Flashing is used around areas like vents and chimneys and may lift if it isn’t secured tightly. 

Wind can also cause debris like branches and tree limbs to land on your roof. Their weight can lift shingles or puncture through them. You can help prevent this type of damage by making sure to trim the trees around your home.

Ice Buildup 

During the winter and early spring, the shifting temperatures and quick freezes can cause ice dams to form on your roof. Ice dams restrict water from clearing off the roof properly and often cause water to pool underneath the shingles. Removing the snow from your roof is one way to help prevent ice dams from forming. You may also want to inspect your insulation to make sure you don’t have too much heat loss, which will cause ice to form on your roof.

Clogged Eavestroughs

Another common cause for a leaking roof is if the eavestroughs around your home are clogged with leaves and debris. When an eavestrough is blocked, water builds up and can cause damage along your roof and exterior walls. It’s important to keep your eavestroughs clear through all seasons otherwise you may have to grab that drip bucket!

Hire an Expert

If you discover a leak in your roof, an expert from Hamblet's Roofing can help assess and repair the damage before it gets worse. We’re experienced in roof repair and can have your home functioning back to normal quickly! 

***

Contact us to learn more about why we’re the premier roofing company in St. Catharines.