The short and direct answer is YES, All roofs will, without doubt, eventually leak. No matter the style, type, or workmanship your roof is going to leak. All local roofers will tell you this is true, and it is. But not all roofs are equal. Asphalt shingles will not last forever, nor coatings, nor flat roof membrane roofs. The actual product will eventually break down due to weather and exposure and must be replaced or recoated. The actual metal from metal roofs and slate from slate roofs are the closest thing to a lifelong product but even those have certain limitations. However long a roof lasts the main reasons it leaks or will leak are almost never due to a breakdown of the actual type of roof material used. It’s almost always due to other circumstances.
Roof leaks can be due to several causes, all of which will require the immediate assistance of a professional roofing contractor. Here are some common roof leak culprits:
If your roof is 10 to 20 years old, you may see signs of aging such as cracking or rotting. In some cases, the shingles may come loose and fall to the ground. A weakened outer layer will expose the underlayment. Continued exposure to wind and sun can wear the layers away and eventually cause leaks to form. If your roof is in such a condition, you need to have it inspected. Your roof may only need repairs, which will cost less, and, if properly done, can extend your roof’s life for a few years. This is enough time to prepare for a scheduled roof replacement.
Apart from roofing shingles, roofing nails or screws from corrugated metal roofs can sometimes back out. This leaves small holes that water can easily penetrate, especially when it’s close to the roof’s edge where wind-driven rain can enter. These little holes are usually unnoticeable to the untrained eye, but not when you have your roof inspected by professional roofers. Catching this issue early helps you prevent bigger repair expenses or even a premature roof replacement.
3. Damaged or Dislodged Flashing
Flashing is a piece of metal that protects valleys and any spot where the roof meets a vertical surface, such as walls and dormers. If damaged or dislodged by strong winds, this could leave the breaks in the roof exposed, making it easy for rainwater to get in. Timely repairs can help mitigate leaks caused by flashing issues.
Plumbing vents and anything that protrudes from the roof require a rubber “boot,” which works like flashing by protecting the area where it meets the roof. Continued exposure to outside conditions will eventually crack the rubber boot, meaning it needs to be replaced.
Regular maintenance and timely repairs help spot these problems and prevent roof leaks. Are you seeing these signs on your roof?
Providence Roofing is your local, veteran owned roofing company. WE want to HELP! Serving our customers in North Carolina with hubs in the following areas:
Boone
Hickory
Huntersville
Statesville
Winston Salem
We are your local roofer. CALL us today for a FREE ESTIMATE at 704 883-6052 or visit us at Providence Roofing We are here to help!!!
