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Help your customers detect issues early

GAF - Help your customers detect issues early
January 28, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

By GAF.

Understanding the signs and causes of roof leaks can help homeowners protect their property and make informed decisions about repairs.

Educating homeowners is a key part of building trust and showcasing your expertise. One common concern homeowners face is dealing with roof leaks, which can lead to significant damage if not addressed promptly. GAF put together a guide to help you explain the signs of roof leaks, their causes and the importance of maintenance and repair. Share this resource with homeowners or use it as a conversation starter during customer meetings to highlight the value of your services and prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs.

How to detect a roof leak

Here are a few signs you might have a leaking roof.

1 – Staining

Water stains, which look like brownish or yellowish spots, on your walls, floors or ceilings are signs you have a leak. A plumbing leak can also cause these stains but finding them in the attic or near other roofing structures means water is likely coming from the roof.

2 – Mold

Mold grows in humid environments, and roof leaks can create the perfect conditions for this growth. If you see mold around the attic and insulation, you may have a leak or your attic may not have proper ventilation. Either way, it's an issue you'll want to address.

3 – Sagging

Sagging ceilings can indicate leaks and issues with your roof's structural integrity. If water has accumulated in the roof decking, the wooden materials can rot and become damaged, weakening them. As water collects, it can also cause these materials to grow heavier, leading to sagging ceilings. This is a safety hazard you'll want to fix as soon as possible.

Common causes of roof leaks

Your roofing system might develop a leak for several reasons.

Severe weather

Weather-related damage is one of the major sources of roof leaks. Exposure to moisture from rainstorms can cause materials like shingles or flashing to deteriorate and eventually allow water to seep into the structure below. Sharp winds can lift or warp shingles, letting water enter the damaged area. Hail can crack shingles and flashing. Even temperature fluctuations can cause materials to become brittle and crack as they expand and contract with these changes.

Faulty roof work

Improperly installed roofing materials can also lead to roof leaks. When shingles aren't aligned or securely attached to the roof, it creates small openings where water can pool. This can occur when nails aren't driven in all the way or not enough nails are used. That's why certain shingles like GAF Timberline HDZ® use patented LayerLock® Technology that helps your roofer achieve a 99.9% nailing accuracy. Since flashing protects the vulnerable parts of the roof, improper flashing installation can also cause problems.

Additionally, many homeowners try to save money by making repairs themselves or hiring low-quality contractors who don't do the job correctly or use cheap materials. This can lead to further and more expensive repairs down the road.

Simple wear and tear

Wear and tear over time can also cause roof leaks. Roofing materials can deteriorate over the years due to harsh weather, ultraviolet rays and roof movements.

Animals and tree branches

Less common causes, which still pop up now and then, include damage from animals and tree branches. The heavy impact from tree branches can crack shingles, leaving room for openings. Small critters like rats and squirrels can chew through roofing material or burrow into it, creating openings for water to enter.

How to prevent roof leaks in the future

With regular maintenance, you can catch leaks before they occur and extend your roof's life.

Schedule a professional inspection

It's recommended to get your roof professionally inspected at least twice a year. When a leak is in the first stages, you might not notice signs immediately. A contractor can detect these issues before they happen and repair any damaged areas, such as shingles or flashing. These proactive steps are often less expensive than, for example, replacing damaged insulation from water damage or replacing the roof decking due to rot.

Inspect your attic and roof

In addition to professional inspections, monitor your attic and roof to determine whether you need a roof repair. From your attic, look for any sunlight that might be entering. If light can get into your attic, that means water can too. If you have a leak, you might see small dark spots or smell mildew or mold.

While you should avoid climbing on your roof (leave this to the professionals who have the proper safety equipment and training), you can inspect your roof from the ground. Look for missing or damaged shingles, holes, and damage to the gutters and flashing.

Clean your gutters

Make gutter cleaning part of your yearly maintenance or hire someone to do it. When your gutters become clogged with debris, water has nowhere to go and will remain on the roof or make its way inside. Installing gutter guards can help reduce the need for gutter cleanup.

Trim tree branches

Trimming the tree branches near your roof can further prevent leaves from clogging the gutters. This step can also prevent branches from scratching your shingles on windy days or falling on your roof, leading to cracks.

Catch leaks early to minimize damage

Your roof is one of your home's most important structures. So, as soon as you notice signs of a leak, contact a roofing contractor and prevent future leaks with regular roof maintenance and inspections. By taking these steps, you can ensure your roof protects what matters most for years to come.

Original article and image source: GAF

Learn more about GAF in their Coffee Shops Directory or visit www.GAF.com.



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