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Roof leaks of any size can cause significant damage to your home if it’s not discovered and repaired quickly. Depending on the severity and source of the leak, you may have to call a trusted Fort Lauderdale roofing company for a roof repair or roof replacement. As you perform your roof maintenance, refer to this list of the 10 most common causes of roof leaks. Catching a leak early can help save you time and money in the long run.

1. Age

Roofing materials deteriorate with age and become less effective at keeping water out. The hot and humid Fort Lauderdale weather conditions can melt the tar that seals the shingles together or cause the roofing materials to grow brittle and break over time. If your roof is over 10 years old, it’s recommended that you get an inspection.

2. Broken or Missing Shingles

South Florida high winds and heavy rains can damage or rip shingles from your roof. Make sure that your roof shingles are intact and that there are no missing pieces. To identify a broken or missing shingle, check around your yard after a severe storm for any loose shingles littered. Then, check your roof to see if there’s a spot of different colors on the roof. If you do find a broken or missing shingle, be sure to replace them to avoid water damage inside your home.

3. Clogged Gutters

Have you cleaned out the gutters on your home recently? If not, this could be the cause of your roof leaking. The gutters need to be kept clear of leaves, branches and other debris at all times to avoid water overflowing beneath your shingles and seeping into your home. The extra weight can also cause your gutters to pull away from your home and cause costly damage. Check your gutters after a severe storm and clean out periodically to avoid any issues caused by clogged gutters.

4. Debris

The buildup of debris such as leaves, branches, or rocks can trap water against the roof and cause it to seep into your home. It’s important to keep the roof clear to allow water to run off quickly. Trimming trees with branches hanging over your roof will make it easier for you to keep debris off your roof and prevent water leaks. You can also carefully inspect your roof after a big storm to ensure your roof is free of debris.

5. Cracked Flashing

Have you checked your flashing recently for any signs of damage? The flashing is a thin piece of metal that is installed underneath a shingle and on the joint of your roof. Roof flashings are designed to create a water-resistant barrier. If your flashing is cracked or breaks away from the roof completely, it leaves your home vulnerable to water damage. After checking your roof for any missing shingles or loose debris, be sure to inspect your flashing for any damage as well.

6. Roof Slope

The slope of the roof can also cause a leak in your home. If the slope of the roof is not deep enough, the wind can force the shingles to lift up, allowing water and debris to get in underneath them. Once the water gets beneath the shingles, it will easily find its way into your home. That’s why it’s important to work with a roofing company that is knowledgeable and uses the roofing materials that are appropriate for the roof pitch of your home.

7. Excess Moisture

Draining upper roof gutters directly onto a lower roof can lead to the lower section becoming overly saturated, which can cause leaks. Extend the downspout to the next gutter or down to the ground instead.

8. Holes

Holes are a very obvious cause of a roof leak and often happen after the removal of a roofing material or incorrect roofing installation. Severe weather conditions can also strip away parts of your roof and leave a hole. Inspect your roof for holes and seal any that you discover to avoid water leaking into your South Florida home.

9. Valleys aren’t Properly Sealed

Valley seals are the areas where two different levels of roofing meet. If the valleys are not sealed together properly, water can get inside as it runs down the roof. The valley may not have been installed properly or may have cracked from excess rain and sun exposure.

10. Condensation or Water Leak in the Attic

When warm, moist air from outdoors meets the chilly indoor temperature, condensation can form underneath your roof’s deck. A leak is most likely coming from your attic if you notice signs of roof stains or rot. This leads to the growth of mold or mildew. If you smell a strong, musty odor coming from the attic, this is a big indicator of a roof leak in your attic. Not only can it be damaging to your home and the structure, but it can be dangerous to family or pets.

Roof leak? No need to scream, just pick up the phone and call Tiger Team Roofing or fill out the form on this page.