A leaky roofing system is more than an inconvenience, as it can cause serious water damage that results in wet rot and mold infestations. Both issues compromise your roof’s structural stability and pose a safety risk for your household. Below are common reasons for roof leaks to help you prevent them in your home. 

What Are Some Common Causes of Roofing Leaks? 

1. Clogged Gutters

Gutters allow rainwater and melting snow to drain off your roofing system and away from your house. If they become clogged with leaves, twigs, moss, shingle granules, animal nests, and other debris, water backs up under the roof's shingles, causing leaks into your home. Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid this problem and prevent water from spilling over the sides and pooling around your foundation, which can cause cracks and basement floods. 

2. Damaged or Missing Shingles

Shingles can get damaged from contact with heavy tree branches, high winds, and pressure from torrential downpours. They also lose the granules that form their protective coating over time, which leaves them thin, weak, and vulnerable to damage. Check your roof with binoculars after every storm for missing and broken shingles, and schedule repairs immediately for any damaged sections to prevent leaks from exposure to the elements.

3. Worn Underlayment

Underlayment is the felt or synthetic material between shingles and rafters. It provides an extra layer of insulation and protection but will wear away over time. If you see daylight streaming through the roof rafters when you go up to your attic, the underlayment is likely worn out, meaning your roof is vulnerable to leaks and pest infestations. Depending on the system’s age, you might need a full replacement to prevent attic water damage and mold growth. 

4. Cracked Flashing

Metal flashing surrounds your chimney and other elements on your roof, such as the vents. It protects the space between the protrusion and the roof from water damage, but it can become cracked if it’s not installed correctly or gets damaged during storms. Use binoculars to observe the flashing as well as the shingles after storms, and have the material replaced if you notice cracks or other damage, including rust that creates holes in the metal. 

To fix your leaky roofing system, rely on Cincinnati Roofing for repairs and replacements that last. The 5th-generation company and Owens Corning Preferred Contractor continues to serve the Cincinnati, OH, area, providing financing as needed. Call (513) 484-5363 today to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their services online.