Did you know that many leaks in homes are not roof related? During heavy storms, water can enter the home in numerous ways. But if you are not observing water leaking at the very top of the ceiling, it is unlikely your roof requires service.

 

Here's a list of common leak issues that are mistaken for roof leaks.

 

1. If you notice leaks only on strong storm days. Rain can be pushed into chimneys, vents, plumbing pipes and other roof penetrations causing leaks around bathroom fans, kitchen hoods, heating and AC units, fireplace, and lighting fixtures due to high winds. Unfortunately leaks in these areas on storm days are occasional and unfortunately, unavoidable.

 

2. Leaks around window frames, door frame, garage door, and other entry ways are very common if the exterior of your home has not been painted, caulked and sealed in over 10 years. Your molding and trim around doors and windows require resealing. If they crack, water will penetrate the home appearing like a roof leak. Worn out, or broken window seals are also causes of house leaks.

 

3. Leaks starting in the middle of walls, or lower units of the home, but no water damage at the upper floor ceiling are most likely not roof related. There may be cracks in your siding letting water in. If your home has not been painted in over 10 years, your siding is vulnerable to leaks.

 

4. Water is dripping in the garage but not in the upper units of the home. This is most likely contributed to vents, pipes and other penetrations that lead to the roof from the garage. When water enters those pipes or vents, water can leak if the joints are not fully sealed. Plumbing cast iron pipes have a life span of 60 - 80 years. Pipes of this age are prone to rust, cracking, and joints splitting. These may also cause leaks in the home. Only plumbers may fix this issue.

 

5. Clogged drains, gutters and downspouts flooding water on the roof, and into the home. If you live in an area with tall trees, your gutters and drains are vulnerable to clogging and flooding. If you do not clean your drains and gutters prior to the start of the rainy season, you will increase our chance of a roof leak substantially. Proper gutter and drain care requires annual cleaning to prevent clogging and flooding of the gutters and drains.

​

6. Condensation build up around skylights. Inadequate ventilation that does not allow excess moisture in the home to escape will lead to condensation. This typically occurs in bathrooms due to stream from showers. When this condensation collects on your windows or skylights, it will cause damage to the surrounding wood and drywall. To avoid this, always run your bathroom fan, or open windows to ventilate your bathroom during and and after showers. Older skylights may also cause leaks due to broken seals. If your skylight is over 20 years old, replacement would be recommended.

​

If you are still certain you are experiencing a roof leak, submit your information to schedule a free roofing assessment, and we will contact your shortly.

​