A leak is one of the worst things that can happen to a roof. Not only can it result in thousands of dollars worth of water damage, but the problem won’t go away unless you find the reason for the roof leak in RI. When you notice a leak and have to make a water damage claim in Rhode Island, check for these common culprits.
Broken Shingles
The shingles are the part of the roof that is always exposed to the elements, so seeing them crack and break after a severe storm is not uncommon. To find out if this could be the reason for your leaking roof, grab a pair of binoculars and look at your roof. If you notice any bald or cracked shingles or any spots on your roof where shingles are missing, contact a roofer to fix the problem as soon as possible. The leak can be fixed, and some new shingles will help make sure that it stays that way.
Cracked Flashing
The flashing is the thin layer of metal found underneath your shingles. It is intended to be watertight, but it can start to corrode and allow water to seep in as it ages. Exposed flashing can also be damaged by severe weather. Once the flashing has been cracked, it will need to be replaced, and any new flashing will usually require a coat of sealant to prevent any further leaking.
An Ice Dam
This obviously won’t be a problem during the spring and summer, but ice dams are a common cause for roof leaks in RI during the winter season. Ice dams can form if your attic is poorly insulated. When they do, they prevent water from running off your roof where it eventually soaks through and causes a leak. If you find yourself having to make a call to a Rhode Island insurance adjuster every winter, invest in a roof rake to remove the ice and snow from your roof or have new insulation installed in your attic.
An Old Roof
Not all older roofs will leak, but the chance of it happening increases over time. Roofing systems generally last about 50 years or so before they need to be replaced, so keep an eye out for any leaks or other signs of damage if your roof is approaching that age.
Clogged Gutters
This problem is similar to an ice dam in that it won’t allow water to flow safely away from your roof, but it can happen at practically any time of the year. Leaves and other debris can collect in your gutters after a storm, while ice and snow can create the aforementioned ice dam. In either case, it’s best to keep your gutters clear, so check them out if you’ve recently been hit with severe weather.
Fixing Your Roof Leak in RI
No matter why you have a roof leak in RI, it’s always important to have it repaired as soon as you believe it’s happening. A leaky roof is a common reason for water damage claims in Rhode Island, so try to have the problem fixed before you start seeing signs of water damage inside your home.
