Residential roofing is a vital component of your home, providing protection from the elements and safeguarding your family and belongings. However, when your roof starts to leak, it can be concerning and potentially damaging to your property. NuHome, a residential roofing company, tells you five common reasons why your residential roofing may be leaking.
Seams
Seams can pose a threat to the integrity of your residential roofing system. When it comes to covering large surfaces, multiple sheets of membrane are often used to ensure complete coverage. The membrane sheets are typically attached to the insulation or deck beneath, either through a fully adhered or mechanically fastened method. However, since the sheets are not as wide as the entire roof, they must be overlapped and joined together using either adhesive or hot-air welding. While these seams are generally strong and durable, they can be vulnerable to delamination at the roof’s edges, especially around flashing, pipes, or an older patch.
It Was Left Ignored
Neglecting your roof can have severe consequences. Disregarding regular maintenance on your residential roofing may result in leaks developing in vulnerable areas. Pitch pans and caulking can dry out and crack, enabling water to infiltrate. By regularly monitoring and resealing as required, you can avoid leaks and prevent additional damage from occurring. Failure to carry out routine maintenance may cause minor problems to escalate into more significant issues that may require a complete roof replacement or, in the worst-case scenario, structural work.
Heavy Equipment on Your Roof
Equipment such as HVAC units and exhaust fans can often cause punctures and leaks in their vicinity. Screws may loosen, and washers or gaskets can dry out, causing potential points of entry for water. It is important to note that ventilation is not entirely waterproof, and harsh rain can penetrate HVAC access panels.
Weather Conditions
Another significant factor to consider is the continual exposure to weather elements. Accumulated ice and snow on gutters and drains can cause water to pool. In certain regions, severe hurricanes or tornadoes can cause significant damage to a roof in a single event. However, more commonly, the slow build-up of rain, snow, and hail over time can cause gradual wear and tear on a roof. The sun’s harsh rays beat down on the roof daily, while storms can hurl debris such as tree branches and limbs at high speeds, causing damage.
Foot Traffic
While walking on your roof is okay to do, caution should still be practiced. Roofs can handle light foot traffic, but excessive weight can be problematic, particularly on unprotected membrane roofs, especially near equipment like HVAC systems. The primary concern is the potential for human error or negligence, such as dropped tools or mishandled parts, which can cause damage to the roof.
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NuHome is your go-to choice for residential roofing in VA. If you require roofing services, you can trust us for a smooth process and a professional job. Contact us today for a free quote!
