Four Mean Reasons Why Roofs Leak
Human error, faulty seams, carelessness, and stormy weather are the top four culprits for roof leaks. Naturally, avoiding the need for a professional roofer is preferable. You can take preventative measures by figuring out who is likely to cause problems.
People
While walking around on your roof is fine, heavy foot traffic, especially near equipment like HVAC systems, can damage membranes if walk pads don’t protect them. The greatest danger is human error, such as carelessly dropping tools or mishandling parts.
Seams
The joints between roof panels are a common point of failure. Rolls of the membrane cover the expansive surface of a roof. These membranes are attached to the roof’s insulation or the decking below. Since no single sheet can span the width of an entire top, they must be joined together by welding or adhesives as they are stacked. In open, flat spaces, the seams perform exceptionally well. However, a roof leak may occur near the roof’s edges due to deformation, such as around flashing, pipes, or the site of an older patch.
Negligence
The consequences of ignoring a roof can be severe. If you don’t regularly inspect and maintain your roof, it could spring leaks at the seams. Caulking and pitch pans can dry out, crack, and let water in afterward. Regular maintenance can help prevent leaks and damage. Minor issues can quickly escalate into significant structural problems that require a new roof if preventive maintenance is neglected.
Weather
A common cause of leaks is repeated exposure to the elements. Water can pool if ice and snow build up on gutters and drains. In some states, a roof can be destroyed with a single hit from a violent hurricane or tornado. However, the slow-moving effects of rain and snow tend to accumulate over time. Extreme heat, cold, and drastic temperature swings can damage roof materials.
Do you have a leaking roof? In need of some maintenance or repair help? When you need a professional roofer in Riverview, FL, Smart Choice Roofing LLC is the company to call. To schedule an appointment, call (813) 755-3110 now.