A leaky roof can easily catch homeowners off-guard and are often found when a water stain on an interior ceiling or wall appears. We have found that overall, there are three common reasons your roof is leaking – age, debris on the roof, or clogged gutters.
Age
If your roof is between 20 and 30 years old and it’s leaking, it’s likely due to deterioration, which unfortunately inevitable with time. If you are able, a visual inspection of your roof and attic can help you spot the leak, but it is important to call a professional to help determine if a repair is needed or if it is time to replace your roof. If you decide to replace your roof, check out our thoughts on the best roofing materials for your home in a recent blog here.
Debris on Your Roof
For homes in Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Bremerton and throughout the Kitsap Peninsula, pine needles and tree branches and twigs can quickly pile up on your roof and trap water. Moss on your roof can start to establish roots which will start to lift your shingles, the first step to roof degradation. If you start to notice a significant buildup of debris on your roof, have it safely removed. It’s easy to ignore roof maintenance but keeping your roof clear of debris will greatly help extend its life.
Clogged Gutters
Gutters have an important job – to move water away from your home in order to protect your roof, walls, landscaping, and your foundation. When your gutters are full, water only has a few places it can go. The most common is directly under your shingles, but in heavy rainstorms the water can spill out of your gutters and cause damage to your foundation. Cleaning your gutters is a chore, but when you consider the potential damage to your home, it’s worth all the effort.
What if my Roof is Leaking?
If you do suspect your roof is leaking, give us a call right away. We want to keep the weather outside and provide complimentary inspections and estimates. We will work with you to determine the best next steps for your situation.