Whether you’re living in a multiple-story home or bungalow, roof leaks can be a major nuisance to homeowners. Especially when you consider the region’s highly variable rainfall, roof leaks in San Diego aren’t uncommon—and one seemingly small issue can be costly. Take a look at our compiled list of what roof leaks look like and what causes them.
#1 – Cracked Flashing
What it looks like
Flashing are thin pieces of metal used to create water-resistant barriers under shingles and roof joints. They can either be exposed or concealed and coated with rubber. Broken flashing results in large cracks that allow water to seep in in large amounts.
Why it happens
One common sealant of flashing is tar, which tends to corrode over time. Natural elements such as wind and rain can break down exposed flashing.
#2 – Broken Shingles
What it looks like
Shingles make up the majority of your roof exterior, so if they’re broken, they’ll be easy to spot. One obvious indicator of missing shingles is patching on your roof. You may even find shingles around your garden or front yard when they break.
Why it happens
Bad weather such as strong winds and heavy rain can cause shingles to break off.
#3 – Poorly Sealed Valleys
What it looks like
The area in which two planes of your roof meet or come together is known as its valley. Because of its sloped shape, rainwater can leak through valleys that aren’t properly sealed. You’ll know you’re dealing with a broken valley if you spot leaks along the seams of your roof.
Why it happens
The number one cause of valley leaks is them not being properly sealed off in the first place, so ensure that you’re researching well-reviewed roofing contractors in San Diego. Otherwise, there may be cracks or erosion in this area caused by an excess of rain or hail.
#4 – Cracked Vent Booting
What it looks like
Notice any small pipes popping out the top of your roof? Those are vents, used to expel excess moisture from inside your home. You’ll know you’re experiencing a leak in this area if you notice dark spots and mustiness.
Why it happens
Because flashing is used to seal up roof vents, vent booting breakage is primarily caused by cracked flashing.
#5 – Ice Dam Buildups
What it looks like
Ice dams are ridges of ice that form along roof edges and prevent melting snow from draining off properly. The combined weight of the ice and water can cause damage to the surface of your roof by breaking down the sealants holding it together.
Why it happens
The heat from indoors can cause snow on your roof to melt into water, which then finds its way across your roof’s surface before freezing back up on its exterior edges.
#6 – Poorly Installed Skylights
What it looks like
If you’re constantly needing to catch drips around your skylight with a bucket, chances are it’s broken. Leaks along the top of your skylight, however, might be a flashing problem.
Why it happens
Ill-fitting skylights or decayed insulation can be the causes of this type of leak.
#7 – Clogged Gutters
What it looks like
Clogged gutters are obvious since you can easily spot leaves or rocks overflowing out of them. Otherwise, water trickling out of your downspouts can be another telltale sign of brimming gutters.
Why it happens
Strong gusts and storms can result in natural elements clogging up your gutters, which then causes rainwater to pool in one area.
#8 – Cracked Chimney
What it looks like
If you have a chimney, signs that it’s falling apart are fairly evident—its mud caps will be worn out and its mortared joints will have cracks or holes. Be on the lookout for cracked shingles or broken flashing around your chimney.
Why it happens
Over time, mortar erodes under harsher weather conditions.
#9 – Attic Condensation
What it looks like
If your attic is beginning to grow mold or mildew, it’s likely due to condensation in your attic. Take note of any strong, musky odors that may be seeping out of these leaks.
Why it happens
As the uppermost area of your home, attics are subject to both indoor and outdoor temperatures.
Conclusion
If you’re a property owner, knowing the difference between simple repairs and more complex renovations will prevent further roof leaks from wreaking havoc in your home.
If you’re on the hunt for a professional and sustainable commercial roofing in San Diego, feel free to reach out to us at the Pioneer Roofing Company!