Roof leaks will appear as patches on the ceiling, or eventually a bubble. While some causes can be obvious to the untrained eye such as broken/missing tiles or slates on the roof above the stain, others may be harder to identify. Damage to the ceiling will not always be directly under the area of damage on the roof. Often it will take an Experienced Roofer to source the cause of the leak.
BROKEN/MISSING TILES OR SLATES
This can result in the felt underneath becoming damaged and water getting in through the roof.
DAMAGED FELT OR ROOF MEMBRANE
Cracks or damage to felt allowing water through the roof.
DAMAGED FLASHING BETWEEN ROOF JOINTS
Flashings are commonly metal material used to form a barrier between joints on the roof. Cracks or damage to these flashing can allow water to pass through at these joints.
VALLEYS NOT PROPERLY SEALED
Valleys are areas where two planes come together on the roof. Naturally this creates a path for water to flow, which must remain sealed to ensure water does not get in through these channels.
CONDENSATION
Proper ventilation is very important to ensure heat doesn’t get trapped between the roof and the insulation. When heat becomes trapped it causes condensation to build up and what will appear as a roof leak on the ceiling.
LEAKING SKYLIGHTS
Skylights that haven’t been properly installed or aren’t properly sealed can let water in at the joints.
CLOGGED GUTTERS
What seems like basic maintenance is actually very important to the health of your roof. Clogged gutters can cause water to build up and overflow, potentially damaging the fascia and soffits over time. This can cause damage to the rafters and ultimately lead to major roof repairs.
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU SEE DAMAGE
Even a small leak can cause the roof to deteriorate and lead to major damage if left for too long. Water damage can result in structural deterioration (such as water damaged rafters), insulation damage, mould, and staining on ceilings. Constant roof maintenance and annual gutter cleaning is recommended to avoid damage caused by roof leaks.
If you see water damage on your ceiling or notice damaged/missing tiles or slates on the roof, call an Experienced Roofing Contractor and have it looked at immediately. Most roofing contractors offer Free Quotations and will be able to determine the cause of the problem without delay. Roofs are incredibly dangerous places to work and DIY repairs are not recommended. Always make sure you choose a registered and Insured Roofing Contractor.
Weathersafe Roofing Ltd offers Free Quotations, 24-HR Emergency Service, No Call Out Charge, and is Fully Registered and Insured. Contact us today for your free quotation.
