10 Ways to Prevent and Stop Roof Leaks

Today’s issue posted by RISMEDIA featured an article posted by the Vice President of Pillar to Post Home Inspections. Here are the highlights:

Stopping potential leaking problems at the source can help prolong the life of your roof and keep repair costs at a minimum. If you’re not handy, call on a professional to inspect the situation and advise if repairs are needed. Being proactive in this way will save money in the long run.

1. Incorrect shingle installation. Improper joint locations and a lack of underlay are two issues that are particularly hard to see, but can be extremely problematic.

2. Structural sagging. A sagging roof structure is often the result of moisture retention, and nearly always foreshadows, or coincides with, a leak issue.

3. Water “ponding.” Clogged roof drains and indented areas on flat roofs can cause water pooling—which is basically a leak waiting to happen.

4. Damaged nails. Even on shingles that have been expertly installed, nails are the first thing to show wear. Corroding nails leave microscopic holes that invite water in.

5. Improperly hung gutters. Gutter placement is critical, and if you’re in an area with strong wind, just a tiny shift can tamper with the gutter system and divert rain—meant for the gutter—onto the roof.

6. Moss. You might think it’s just an aesthetic problem, but as moss gathers, it retains more and more moisture that you might not be able to see—until it starts dripping into the attic.

7. Insufficient insulation. The roof might look great on the outside, but if it’s not properly insulated underneath, you’re in trouble. Pre-1980s homes, in particular, may not have an adequate vapor barrier; if they don’t, a replacement is warranted—surface patching and minor repairs will just amount to wasted money.

8. A deteriorating chimney. Whether it’s cracks, eroded joints or a decaying cap, the chimney has plenty of inroads for moisture and water. Don’t discount the chimney; sometimes it might need all the repairs, when the roof might be just fine.

9. Evidence of badly-done past repairs. From improper plastering to inadequately plugged-up holes, any past repairs that look like they’re DIY are probably not up to code, and are just a stopgap measure. Don’t look to them to provide any leak protection in the future. Have a professional inspector evaluate these half-hearted fixes, and suggest ways to re-do them properly, to prolong the roof’s life.

10. Don’t forget the attic. Leaks into the attic aren’t just a problem; but so are leaks originating in the attic. One of the most important precautions: Don’t terminate any vent or exhaust pipes in the attic.

December 14, 2010. RisMedia. The author of the original article is Charles Furlough is Vice President, Pillar to Post Professional Home Inspections.

For more information, visit www.pillartopost.com.