Prevention is the Best Cure for a Roof Leak

As Colorado Springs roofers, we’re well aware that most people don’t even know they have a roof leak until it’s too late and they’re dealing with the consequences. We’re often asked about the best way to fix or stop a roof leak, and the most honest answer we can give is perhaps the most simple: prevent it from happening in the first place. Paying attention to the roof over your head and preventing problems from emerging will both help preserve your home and make your roof last longer. Here are a few simple ways you can stop roof leaks dead in their tracks before they even have a chance to start.

Check Penetrations

A “penetration” is anything that sticks up out of your roof, meaning your roof needs to have a hole cut in it in order to allow it to pass through. These holes are one of the largest sources of leaks, since getting an exact fit is nearly impossible. As such, your penetrations are often surrounded with a seal, known as “flashing” in order to keep the water out. Your flashing will need to be replaced every few years, so keeping an eye on it and looking for cracks and signs of wear can stop leaks from emerging.

Use Drip Edges

Drip edges are a small piece of plastic designed to funnel water off the top of your roof and into the rain gutters. These are critically important because it keeps water away from your fascia and allows it to be moved off your roof and down away from your home. The eaves and fascia on your roof often experience leaks and rot because the drip edge is either missing from your roof, is worn out, or was never installed properly.

Check Step Flashing

Step flashing is similar to penetration flashing but is installed along edges on roofs, usually where two planes intersect. This means along dormers, in valleys where two planes of a roof meet, and along roof-to-wall transitions. Like regular flashing, exposure to the elements will eventually cause this sealant to wear out.

Check Your Attic

Believe it or not, your roof leak may not be the result of your roof itself. Your attic may also be the cause of some of your leaks. Keep your eyes out for these factors that also could contribute to a leak developing or tell you that a leak may have emerged: algae stains, mold, soaked insulation (including when it hasn’t rained), black or rusty rings around nails, spider webs or dust clogging vents, or even a high amount of humidity in your attic. If this is the case, the decking on your roof may be at risk because of poor ventilation in your attic.

Get Proper Maintenance

A maintenance service can help you avoid these leaks by fixing problems before they can deal too much damage. The older your roof is, the more attention it will need, depending on the material it’s constructed from. For asphalt shingle roofs, you should consider getting an annual maintenance service if your roof is 15 or more years old. Clay tile roofs can last substantially longer. Talk to a roofer about your situation and find out how often you should obtain a maintenance service to make sure you’re in good hands when it comes to preventing leaks.