Roofing 101: Protecting Your Home from Damaging Leaks

ROOFING 101: PROTECTING YOUR HOME FROM DAMAGING LEAKS DID YOU KNOW? Faulty shingles are not the only causes of roof leaks. Identifying the source of the leak is essential for avoiding complete roof replacement. Even a small leak can damage the insulation and structure of your home. The point where you see moisture entering your house is not necessarily the location of the leak. Moisture from leaky roofs causes more damage every year than termites, fire, or storms. COMMON ROOF LEAK LOCATIONS 3. 6. 2. 5. 1. Broken or missing shingles • Shingles are your roof's first line of defense against the elements. • Even a small crack can let lots of moisture seep into the roof's structure. 4. Walls and dormers • Water can enter around windows and may trickle down dormers to enter the house. • If water gets behind the flashing, it may appear that your roof is leaking. 2. Plumbing vent boots • These boots may be metal, plastic, or both. • If the rubber seal cracks or gets loose, water can get into the house. 5. Headwall flashings • A headwall is a spot where the roof meets a vertical wall. • If the flashing is improperly installed or does not extend at least three inches over the shingles, water can seep into the house. 3. Furnace vents • Cracked housings and broken seams allow water into the house. • Caulk and duct tape will not fix the problem. 6. Chimneys • Broken bricks and improper sealing lead to leaks. • Old caulk may crack above the flashing, giving water an entry point. HOW TO FIND A ROOF LEAK By Yourself: 1. Go on the roof with a hose. 2. Have a friend in the attic with a flashlight. 3. Run the water over the place you think is leaking. 4. The flashlight will reflect against the water, making a leak easier to spot. Trust the Professionals • Hire a reputable local roofing company. • The professionals' experience will allow them to identify and repair the leak. • Stay safe and only have an expert on a ladder and your roof. INFOGRAPHIC PROVIDED BY: Paul Bange Roofing, Inc. www.paulbangeroofingfl.com Sources: www.familyhandyman.com/DIY-Projects/Home-Repair/Exterior-Repairs/ Roof-Repair/roof-repair-how-to-find-and-fix-roof-leaks/View-All#step1 www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-find-a-leak-in-a-roof.html www.buildings.com/tabid/3334/ArticlelD/1735/Defaultaspx