5 Reasons You May Need Attic or Roof Leak Repair
Published on October 01, 2021
Attic and roof leaks are caused by several different factors, some of which are easy to prevent and others that are beyond our control. With good prevention measures, the need for attic or roof leak repair (and emergency roof repair) can be avoided – and good maintenance is the key to prevention.
Roof leaks are problematic, especially when left unattended until damages are sustained. In worst cases, attic insulation can become waterlogged and compromised. Even more, mold can propagate over time and create an infiltration. A serious leak can do some serious structural damage to your attic, requiring emergency roof repair.
What are the Primary Causes of Attic/Roof Leaks?
While there are some common reasons that attics and roofs leak, every leak is unique depending on the condition of the attic and roof. Having a problem-free attic is mainly about good annual maintenance, but at the same time, a comprehensive inspection is a great way to identify problems early on. In fact, a good attic inspection can pinpoint potential problems before they become bigger, costlier problems.
Condensation
Because the attic is at the highest point of a home, trapped air responds to both indoor and outdoor temperatures. During certain weather conditions, high condensation levels can form, allowing moisture to accumulate. Over time, condensation accumulation can contribute to a leak. Worse still, this moisture accumulation provides the ideal environment for mold to grow and thrive.
Ongoing Neglect
While it's easy to forget about your attic/roof because it's out of sight in most cases, ignoring a roof can be consequential. Water leaks can develop at weak points. Caulking can dry out and allow water to seep in. And deteriorating shingles can quickly expose the roofing structure. The answer is to properly maintain the roof year after year and make necessary repairs as needed. It’s also a good idea to arrange for an annual attic and roof inspection to identify potential problems. If you require attic or roof leak repair, you will catch it early on before the damage becomes significant.
Extreme Weather
Constant exposure to extreme weather can take a toll on a roof. Particularly in winter, with ice and snow build-up (ice damming), melting water has a tendency to collect and even leak. More than that, periods of intense cold and heat can degrade roofing material over the years. While the weather is simply out of our control, it's essential to keep a close eye on the after-effects (especially after storms) and call for emergency roof repair.
Rooftop Equipment
In some homes, heavy equipment might be located on the roof. Equipment like air conditioning units and exhaust fans provide seams and joints where water can leak. Any equipment that is fastened to the roof could have screws, bolts, and gaskets that can rust and rot, thus providing entry points for water. Here again, a regular inspection will identify weak points and recommend a proper fix.
Damaged Shingles
Extreme weather conditions such as high winds and heavy downpour can wreak havoc on roof shingles. Besides, shingles have a lifespan and, over time, will deteriorate. Damaged or broken shingles can easily allow water to infiltrate onto the roof structure. Because shingles are readily visible, even a visual inspection can identify weak points and areas that may need repair. Good maintenance is the key here to avoid costly physical damage.
Professional Attic and Roof Repairs
For homeowners throughout the GTA, EcoComfort Insulation and Contracting provides expert roof leak repair (and emergency roof repair). We offer residential and commercial customers professional repairs and retrofits that are fully guaranteed. At EcoComfort, we do it all – from attic inspections to roof repairs to insulation upgrades. We install only the highest quality products and ensure superior workmanship on every job.
