Why Is My Roof Leaking During Heavy Rain?

Why Does the Roof Leak During Heavy Rain?

Sometimes, a roof only leaks when it’s raining, and homeowners delay addressing the problem. It’s understandable to think that the problem isn’t serious if it only happens occasionally, but a roof should always be watertight, no matter the weather. If your roof leaks during storms, it’s important to identify the cause of the problem and fix it as quickly as possible. Hiring a roof inspector is an important first step in this process, so that you can get a professional opinion and determine how to keep your roof in good condition.

How Complicated is it to Fix a Leaking Roof?

A roof leak can have many different causes. The level of effort, expertise, and expense necessary to fix a leaking roof depends largely on the reason it is leaking in the first place.

• A roof can leak around the chimney. Flashing, the metal sheet the covers the connection point between the chimney and the roof, can become damaged or come loose. During a major downpour, water can begin to seep through the flashing. Additionally, water sometimes comes in directly through the chimney, which could be a masonry issue.
• Your skylight may let in more than sunlight. Just as flashing around the chimney can cause issues, a skylight that is not correctly insulated can cause a leak. A skylight that is nearing the end of its lifespan may also leak, because of a worn seal.
• Damaged shingles can cause a leaky roof. When shingles become damaged or begin to degrade, they may begin to leak during a prolonged storm. Shingles can also be damaged in a storm and begin to leak at that point.
• Clogged gutters are not just unsightly. Your gutters are designed to direct water away from the home, but if they become clogged with debris, they won’t function well. This can lead to water backing up and leaking into the house.
• The roof vent may be leaking. A vent that comes through the top of the roof can cause the roof to leak in heavy rain. Often, the roof boot, the rubber seal around the base, dries and cracks, allowing water in. It can also happen because of flashing issues around the vent.
• A metal roof can become corroded or cracked. If you have a metal roof that is not properly maintained, it could become compromised and begin to leak.
• The leak may be caused by flashing issues. Just as flashing around the chimney and roof vent can become damaged and allow the roof to leak, flashing in other parts of the roof can become compromised.
• Your roof may have simply reached the end of its lifespan. The average roof lasts between 20 and 50 years, and the wear and tear a roof experiences can lead to leaks. If your roof is getting old, it may need to be replaced.

When to Call a Roofing Contractor

If your roof is leaking, it’s wise to enlist the help of a professional roofing contractor as soon as possible. An experienced roofer can quickly identify the source of the leak and the best way to fix it. Whether you need a simple fix or a complete replacement, having a professional work with you from day one is the best way to make sure your roof stays in good condition.

Contact East Coast Renewable for Roof Repair or Replacement

Whether you need someone to fix a leaking roof or provide a roof replacement, trust a company that does excellent work and has fun in the process.  At East Coast Renewable, we proudly provide comprehensive exterior solutions for residential and commercial customers in Charlotte, NC and the surrounding areas, including Asheville, Columbia, and Greenville. Our specialties include roof repair and replacement, gutter installation and repair, and siding solutions that provide both durability and aesthetic appeal. Whether you need maintenance, upgrades, or a complete overhaul, our team is here to respond quickly, explain your options, and provide quality craftsmanship and high quality service to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Because we believe in treating others as we want to be treated, we offer clear, honest communication, prioritizing accountability, respect, empathy, and integrity. We know that working with contractors can sometimes be a challenge, which is why we prioritize our customers’ trust and strive for complete transparency, providing careful documentation and clear communication, honoring the quote that was given, and making the entire process not only efficient but enjoyable for our customers. To discuss your roofing needs and schedule a service appointment, contact us for your free inspection today!