Roof leakage that is left unresolved can bring disastrous aftereffects to the interior of any building. If that initial drip of water is not immediately addressed, it can eventually transform into a huge catastrophic event. Therefore, it is imperative to treat even the smallest drip from a ceiling as a potential crisis that requires immediate attention. Do not allow any fluid to penetrate the top covering of a building and destroy the inside rooms. For a roof to be impermeable, solid precautionary measures must be taken to prevent any water from entering a building. Indeed, prevention here is greatly better than the cure!

Possible Causes of Leakage

It is not enough to simply recognize the first signs of water seepage through an opening. What is vital is to find the cause of the visible liquid damage and take the necessary action to stop that leak from continuing. There are many possible reasons for water being able to penetrate the roof and enter the interior of a building. Following is a list of some of the more common reasons for this occurrence.

• Weather - From the time a roof is initially constructed, it starts to deteriorate. Exposure to various weather conditions can cause the roofing material to wear out. During the summer, extreme heat can cause the seals to crack which could allow water to trickle in during the snowy or rainy seasons.

• Improper Installation - Another possible reason for leakage could be an inadequate or improper installation of the roof. Unfortunately, some contractors are either not well-trained in the installation process or in a hurry to finish the job in the least possible time. The net result is a roof that is lacking in the necessary quality to properly protect the interior of a building. That’s why it is imperative to hire a trusted contractor who offers excellent quality workmanship.

• Faulty Flashing and Fittings - Faulty flashing and fittings are the most common cause of water leaking through the roofing structure into a building. The purpose of flashings and fittings is to prevent any liquid from entering into the joint structures. Always ensure that flashing is properly installed so that it can extend the service life of the building and not allow water to enter through the roof.

• Other Causes – Some additional reasons for seepage may include old age, accumulation of ice during the snowy season (ice dams), mechanical damage, strong winds and faulty design. Being aware of any of these factors could help prevent water from entering a building.

Maintenance Program

A proactive approach is a great way to prevent water damage from happening. Treat drips, trickles and outright seepage before they happen by at least a semi-annual check of the entire roofing system. Check all possible areas where a problem may originate: chimneys, flashings, air vents and fans. Always check before or during the snowy or rainy seasons. Though leakage can perhaps be better detected during the rainy or snowy seasons, hopefully before-hand knowledge of the possible root causes of leaks will allow action to be taken before such water penetration occurs. A reoccurring maintenance program will greatly help the achievement of an impenetrable structure.

There are many ways to address water leaks. Emergency repairs, inspections, and locating the source of the problem are some of the ways to address this issue. By being proactive, it is possible to totally eradicate and eliminate this from happening. Always follow a good maintenance program and then no leaks will slip through the roofing barrier during the rainy or snowy seasons!