Why is my roof still leaking after repair? A leaking roof can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Not only is it frustrating to deal with, but it can also lead to costly repairs and damage to your property. If you’ve recently had your roof repaired and are still experiencing leaks, it’s natural to wonder why it is still leaking. There are various reasons why a roof may continue to spread after repair, from incorrect installation to underlying structural issues.
Eliminate the Problem
The initial step in eliminating a leaking after roof repair is to identify its source. You can go back to where the issue began and work from there; even if it’s not apparent or invisible, defects such as holes, missing or damaged roof shingles, seals, faulty connections between roof and penetrations (e.g., roof vents, utility lines, satellite dishes or other protrusions on top) can lead to leaks.
Roof Replacement
Another option is to have the roof replaced where the leak occurred. However, this can be costly as windows, walls, and other roof areas near the leak could be affected.
Shingle Tears and Holes
To determine if there is any damage or tears beneath a shingle, you would need to take each one out of its place. After eliminating the evidence, more complex investigative work must be done to pinpoint and repair the source.
Roof Specialists
It’s essential to contact the original roofer who stopped the leak. To resolve it, you will need to speak with them. If the leak continues to annoy you, consider seeking residential roof repair in your area for assistance.
Misdiagnosis Of The Original Leak
The initial leak could have been misdiagnosed. Other roof leaks may have caused the current leakage, even if those have been fixed previously. The research will be necessary to locate every crack in your roofing system; water could be coming from somewhere other than the roof itself.
Material Use
Did you initially agree to use cheaper materials as part of the solution? Did flashings need replacing, or do you have a professional roofing company that can handle this task?
House Settling
Your roof may experience stress if your house is old or not in its original location. Settlement can cause cracks in the components of a roof and damage any repair made, potentially leading to leaking. This type of movement should be avoided at all costs.
Multiple Roof Systems
Leaking multiple roof systems can lead to moisture accumulation. Water can travel far, with some roofs without outlets for flow through water – making it difficult to detect where the leak may be.
Leak Detection Tools
Some tools are available to help detect leaks after all other methods have failed. Here are a few of them.
- Spray Rack: Controlled water sprays can be used to isolate specific areas of a roof, such as the surface, curbs, and ducts. The process begins at low points and works upward until an issue is identified.
- Roof Moisture Scans: Infrared scans of a roof can detect moisture. As heat from the sun makes roofs hotter, condensation forms, leaving hot spots on your imaging device, indicating leaks.
- Moisture Meter: A moisture meter measures moisture levels using pins or sensors on the roof surface. These sensors detect any liquid that accumulates there.
Roof Access
If you need regular access to your roof, installing walkways or walk pads might be beneficial – especially if the material is a loose-laid membrane (ballast).
Other Sources
Check all areas of your roof that could be leaking, such as around skylights or sewer pipes, valleys, chimneys, and chimney stacks. In comparison, these issues are relatively easy to repair but difficult to manage simultaneously.
Roof Maintenance
Regular roof maintenance can help to prevent many leaks. Doing so can save you money and time from expensive and time-consuming investigations.
Roof inspections and maintenance often solve most of your issues.
Repairing a leak is relatively straightforward; finding it may require an extended or speedy process of elimination. We offer online support to answer all questions, no matter how serious or innocuous they appear.
How to Prevent Roof Leaks?
Preventing roof leaks is crucial to ensuring your home’s longevity and structural integrity. Here are some tips to help avoid roof leaks:
- Regular Maintenance: Regular roof maintenance, like cleaning gutters and inspecting shingles, flashing, and seals, can help identify and prevent leaks before they occur.
- Proper Installation: Ensure a professional roofing contractor correctly installs your roof. Proper installation includes proper sealing around vents and chimneys and adequate ventilation.
- Trim Trees: Overhanging tree limbs can scratch and damage shingles, causing leaks. Trim any tree branches that are near your roof to prevent this from happening.
- Monitor Attic Moisture: Ensure your attic is insulated and ventilated to prevent moisture buildup. Excessive moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth and cause damage to your roof deck.
- Act Quickly: Act quickly to prevent further damage if you notice any signs of a leak, such as water stains or discoloration on your ceiling or walls. Contact a professional roofing contractor to inspect and repair the issue before it worsens.
Schedule a FREE Quote
If you’re tired of dealing with a leaky roof, it’s time to call in the professionals. At Old Time Roofing, we specialize in identifying and repairing even the most stubborn leaks. Our team of experienced roofing professionals will work tirelessly to identify the root cause of your leak and provide a lasting solution that will keep your home safe and dry for years to come. Don’t let a leaky roof continue to damage your home and your peace of mind – contact us today to schedule your roof repair appointment. With Old Time Roofing, you can rest easy knowing your roof is in good hands.
Other Services We Offer
Old Time Roofing is a dedicated team of experts that can help you with the following:
Roofing materials that we work with:
Refrain from entrusting your roofing needs to just anyone. With Old Time Roofing, you can rest easy knowing that your roof is in capable hands.