The Three Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks

A roof leak is one of the most common—and most irritating—home repairs, and residents here in Maryland know firsthand the problem. Not only are they often difficult to pinpoint, but they can also damage your home if left unaddressed. This blog post will cover the three most common causes of roof leaks and what you can do to prevent them.

Top Reason Your Roof Leaks

  1. Improperly installed or missing shingles. This is one of the most common causes of roof leaks. If your shingles are loose, damaged, or missing altogether, they will not adequately protect your roof from water damage. Ensure a qualified roofer inspects and repairs your shingles every few years to prevent this problem.
  2. Clogged gutters and downspouts. Another common cause of roof leaks is clogged gutters and downspouts. When gutters and downspouts become clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, they cannot properly drain water away from your home. This can lead to water build-up on your roof, leading to leaks. Be sure to clean your gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent this problem.

3 . Ice dams. Ice dams are another common cause of roof leaks. An ice dam forms when heat from your home melts the snow on your roof. The water then runs down to the edge of your roof, where it freezes again, forming a dam that prevents further melting snow from draining off of your roof. This can lead to water build-up on your roof and, eventually, leaks. To prevent ice dams, ensure your attic is insulated and ventilated so that heat doesn’t escape and melt the snow on your roof. Additionally, use a roof rake to remove excess snow from your roof. This will help prevent ice dams from forming and protect your roof from water damage.

  1. Cracked Flashing. Flashing is the metal strips installed around areas of your roof that are vulnerable to water infiltration, such as vent pipes or chimneys. Over time
    Roof leaks are a pain, but thankfully they’re usually caused by one of three problems: improperly installed or missing shingles, clogged gutters, downspouts, or ice dams. By being aware of these problems and taking steps to prevent them—such as having a qualified roofer inspect and repair your shingles regularly, cleaning your gutters and downspouts regularly, and ensuring your attic is insulated correctly—you can help keep your home leak-free for years to come.