Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks

One of the most devastating and frustrating damages that can happen to your home is a roof leak — if it is not caught early. And, unfortunately, many things can cause roof leaks to appear. Prevention is always the best course of action, and to start, you need to know what the most common causes of roof leaks are, so you can be prepared:

  1. Broken or Missing Shingles

Shingles help water run safely off of your roof to the gutters. Additionally, they work as a barrier to prevent holes from opening into your attic and ceiling. When shingles or tiles (or other roofing materials) break or go missing, they can’t do their job — this leads to holes and leaks. An improper install, high winds, heavy rain, and more can all be responsible for damaged or missing shingles.

  1. Neglect

Some homeowners keep their roofs out of mind and choose to ignore any potential issues or maintenance, hoping that everything is as it should be. Any damages need to be repaired as soon as possible when it comes to your roof, so neglect will only make those problems worse (and more costly) as they progress.

  1. Weather

Your roof is designed to protect your home and everything inside from the elements, but sometimes, it can really take a beating. Intense weather conditions such as rain, hail, wind, lightning, and more can cause damage to your roof (i.e., serious leaks). Keeping trees trimmed back and getting periodic roof inspections done can ensure the weather doesn’t wreak havoc on your roofing system.

  1. Gutter Issues

Water runs down your roof and into the gutters, where it can be safely redirected away from your home’s structure. However, as each season passes, leaves, sticks, and other debris can get stuck and clog up the gutter system creating problems. Without free space for the H2O to flow, the water can back up onto the roof, where it can seep under the shingles and leak into your home. It’s crucial to regularly clean your gutters to ensure a proper flow of water.  

  1. Old Age

Wear and tear over the years is completely normal, and every roof will reach the end of its lifespan at some point. How long your roof will last will depend on the type of roofing material. If your roof is reaching the time for an upgrade, be sure to keep an extra close lookout for holes and leaks. 

ROOF REPAIR IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT

If you’re looking to have your roof fixed or your gutters replaced or cleaned, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing, and gutter systems both look great and are functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.

What To Do If I Have Animals Living On Or In My Roof

Leaks, damaged shingles, and clogged gutters are all common homeowner concerns when thinking about the roof. But every homeowner should also keep an eye out for their sneaky neighbors causing problems — and by that, we mean the ones living outside.  

From squirrels to birds to raccoons, there’s plenty of wildlife right in your own backyard, and they may get adventurous and try to find their way inside your home through the roof.

Why You Should Be Concerned About Animals On Your Roof

Roofs function to protect your home and everything in it from the elements, but they are not equipped to handle constant contact and movement from wildlife trying to make themselves at home. 

Wild animals such as squirrels, raccoons, and opossums will use their sharp claws and teeth to create openings in the roof to nuzzle their way inside your attic. Whether they manage to get inside your home or not, the damage they caused can lead to leaks which then lead to wood rot, mold, and a shortened lifespan of your roof. 

Birds and bats can also cause concern because of their nesting in troublesome areas — like in roof vents. These animals and their nests can not only cause damage but can also block the flow of air in and out of the attic space. A lack of proper airflow can damage the structure of the roof during periods of extreme temperatures.

What To Do If Animals Are Living On Your Roof

If animals are making themselves too at home on your roof, the first thing to do is to call your local animal control or wildlife removal service. This team can safely remove the animals from your house to a safer area. 

After the animals have been removed, it’s time to give your local roofing company a call! The roofers will do a full inspection to assess any damages or concerns the animals may have caused and then have them fixed. Repairs can include replaced shingles, leak fixes, roof vent replacements, and much more to ensure your roof is in the best condition possible.

ROOF REPAIR AND INSTALLATION IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT

If you’re looking to have your roof fixed or redone or your gutters replaced or cleaned, we’ve got you covered! The experts at Landmark Exteriors are here to help ensure your home’s roofing, and gutter systems both look great and are functioning properly for years to come! Give us a call at (203) 838-3838 to learn more.