What Are the Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks?

Shingles are your roof's first defense. High winds, hail, or falling branches can crack, lift, or knock them off. Over time, sun exposure makes them brittle, so they break more easily. Even a few missing shingles let rain reach the underlayment and then your attic or walls.

Look for shingles that are curled, cracked, or lying in your yard after a storm. Also check for granules from asphalt shingles collecting in gutters, a sign they are wearing thin. If you spot trouble, a roofer can replace the damaged pieces before water finds a way inside.

Gutters collect rainwater and direct it away from your roof and foundation. When leaves, twigs, or debris clog them, water backs up under your shingles and can soak into the roof deck. Overflowing gutters also dump water against your siding, which can lead to rot and interior leaks.

Clean your gutters at least twice a year, especially after fall leaf drop. Make sure downspouts are clear and extend several feet from your house. Check them before winter storms to reduce the chance of ice buildup.

Roofs wear out. Asphalt shingles typically last 20 to 30 years, while metal or tile can last longer, but every material eventually fails. Nails pop, sealants dry out, and the underlayment degrades. An old roof may leak only during heavy rain, or it may leak steadily as cracks widen.

If your roof is near the end of its expected life, have a roofer inspect it before leaks start. They can tell you whether repairs will hold or if a new roof is the better path. Catching problems early keeps water from reaching your ceilings, walls, and belongings.

• Curled or brittle shingles
• Rust on metal flashings
• Sagging roof deck
• Granules in gutters
• Daylight visible through roof boards
• Damaged or missing vent boots