4 Main Reasons Why You Have Roof Leaks
Human error, seam issues, carelessness, and the elements round out the top five culprits regarding roof leaks. Naturally, avoiding the need for a roofing contractor is preferable. The best way to prevent problems is to identify the most likely cause of leaks:
People
Roofs can withstand some foot traffic, but heavy foot traffic, especially near equipment like HVAC systems, can be problematic for membranes that aren’t protected by walk pads, so they’re not recommended unless necessary. The most considerable risk comes from careless human behavior, such as dropping tools or mishandling parts.
Seams
Often, the seams in your roof are where water can enter. Rolls of the thick membrane cover the expansive surface of a commercial roof. These membranes can be installed either on the roof’s insulation or directly under it. Due to the impossibility of finding a single sheet wide enough to cover an entire top, it is necessary to stack and join multiple sheets together. In wide, open spaces, this type of seam does exceptionally well. Leaks can still occur near the roof’s edges due to deformation, such as around flashing, pipes, or the site of an older patch.
Negligence
The effects of ignoring a roof can be catastrophic. If you don’t regularly check and maintain your roof, it could start leaking at the seams. Eventually, caulking and pitch pans will dry out, crack, and let water in. Regular inspection and resealing can help prevent leaks and damage. Without regular inspections and repairs, seemingly minor issues can quickly escalate into major structural failures that require an entirely new roof.
Weather
Typical weather conditions can also cause leaks. Water can pool when snow and ice build-up on gutters and drains. In some parts of the country, a roof can be destroyed with a single hit from a violent hurricane or tornado. The effects of rain and snow may seem negligible initially, but they tend to compound over time. The sun’s rays hit the roof nearly every day. Extreme heat, cold, and temperature swings can damage roof materials.
What’s the problem with your roof? In need of some maintenance or repair assistance? If your roof leaks, look no further than Hollow Ridge Exteriors, the most reliable and reasonably priced roofing contractor in the Birdsboro, PA area. To schedule a meeting, call (484) 746-0577 today.