Colonial Construction Co., Inc.                   

  509 Parker Avenue, Plainedge, New York 11756  (516) 796-1249 Fax (516) 796-0692

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Roof Leaks

The following list are some of the most common items that cause roof leaks.

1. Improperly installed roofing or damaged and missing shingles. Click on Pictures To Enlarge

2. Damaged flashing

3. Leaks in Siding

4. Leaks in windows

5. Skylights

6. Other Roof Openings

7. Chimneys

This is the hardest and most time consuming problem that can be encountered with a roof leak. One nail place in the wrong place can create a small or large leak that can not be visually seen because the nails are located below the overlaying shingles. This type of leak usually occurs with a driving rain from only one or two certain directions. It could take numerous rains to locate this type of leak.

Damaged or missing shingles

Shingles may blow off the roof from high winds. No roof in invincible from this situation. Wind speed and direction are critical in allowing this to happen. Replacing these missing shingles will repair the problem.

2. Damaged flashing

Flashing is a metal weatherstripping applied to run water away from adjoining areas on the roof such as walls and valleys. Valley flashing when installed has a bent curb on it and if someone unqualified walks on a roof and steps on this area, this may create a leak. It allows water to pass the curbed edge and thus get below the roofing. Another flashing that can leak is called the step flashing. Step flashing goes between the roof and the siding to keep the water out. Both the step flashing and valley flashing can be moved by natural expansion and contraction. When great temperature changes occur in short periods of time, this may loosen what was a tight joint between roof and siding or at a valley. Sealant may be applied to these joints to correct this problem. In some cases it may be necessary to change the flashing. Final determination should be made by a qualified mechanic.

3. Leaking Windows

Leaking windows is another very common occurrence. Many homes have storm windows that have a bottom expander strip. This area often gets clogged up and allows water to build up between the storm window and the main window. Water then seeps into the sill and creates a leak below the window. This may appear as a roof leak but really is the window. Another item that could create a leak is improperly installed window sill capping. This would catch water that would normally run off and trap it. A bead of caulking usually corrects that situation. Also, a rotted window sill can allow water into the wall below the window. Replacing the sill is then recommended.

4. Leaks Created by the Siding

Another common occurrence is that siding has developed cracks or openings that allow water to penetrate behind it. This too can be a very tough job to locate. Wood siding could crack with expansion and contraction. Caulking between moldings and windows can crack, allowing water to enter. These leaks may also only leak with certain wind directions or force. It is important to notice the wind direction when these leaks occur, so as to save time evaluating the cause of the leak.

5. Gutters

Being at the lowest part of the roof, most people would not expect gutters to create leaks. When heavy rains occur, the gutters can overflow and allow water to enter thru the fascia or the bottom of the roof, depending on the pitch of the roof. The only way to eliminate this is to keep the gutters cleaned out. It is possible that the gutter needs another leader to help remove the water from the gutter.

6. Skylights

Skylights if properly installed will last many years with no leaks. Colonial Construction Co Inc uses a product called water & ice barrier around skylights to further eliminate the possibility of leaks. If the skylight leaks, repairs can be made depending upon the manufacturer of the unit.

Some makers use step flashing while some use curb flashing. Curb flashing may have been damaged by someone walking on the roof. It may be necessary to open up all the roofing around the skylight to repair the problem. It is best to leave this operation to a trained mechanic.

7. Other Roof Openings.

Any other roof opening can, over time, also be the cause of a leak. Some examples are the plumbing vent, exhaust fans and roof ventilators. All these items can crack, expand and contract thus allowing water to enter the house.

8. Chimneys

Chimneys usually leak from 2 places. The flashing can loosen up or the top cement cap can crack. Visual inspection can identify which one of these is the culprit. If the top cap is cracked it should be replaced. If the flashing is loose it can be replaced or sealed with a silicone or asphalt sealant.

Note: When tying in a new roof into an existing roof, it is very possible to inherit an existing roof leak into the brand new roof. It may be that the roof above the tie-in was leaking and needs to be replaced.

How Do I Keep My House From Leaking?

Keep your gutters well maintained. Visually check your roof from time to time looking for any missing shingles. When a storm comes it could tear off shingles, even from a brand new roof. If any leaks are detected, promptly contact a qualified roofer to make repairs. Catching a leak as soon as its noticed may save major expenses later.

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Last modified: August 10, 2010