If you find the dreaded brown spot on your ceiling after a heavy spell of rainfall, it is a real possibility that this is because of your leaking roof. Most households in Nottingham face this problem due to the rainy weather conditions throughout the year. Ignoring that small drip can lead to massive roofing damage. You could risk the growth of mould, rotting frames and eventually a destroyed ceiling. It is better to take care of roofing and guttering repairs on time.
Roof repairs in Nottingham might get a bit difficult or overwhelming if you can’t identify the real cause of the leak. There can be countless reasons for a leaking roof, from missing shingles to damaged flashings around chimneys. So, to reduce the chances of extensive damage and expensive repair, we have compiled a list of common causes behind roof leaks that you should look out for.
1. Broken Flashings
Flashings are thin metal pieces fixed under shingles and joints to support the roof structure. They are a vital part of your roof as they create a water-resistant barrier and prevent leakage. But due to bad weather and rainfall, flashings can get rusty and form large cracks.
If your roof starts dripping, check your flashings for any crack or tear. Keep checking it timely and get your flashings replaced as soon as it begins to wear down.
2. Clogged Gutters
A clogged gutter is one of the most common causes of roof leaks. Since the gutters make up the plumbing system of the house, any blockage in it makes it clogged and stops the way for rainwater to flow around. Instead, it pools in one part of the roof and seeps through the cracks, ultimately causing the ceiling to leak.
If you see leaves sticking out from your roof gutter or a blocked drainage system, you should take immediate action to get the roofing and guttering repairs done.
3. Damaged Shingles
Roof tiles, also known as shingles, can easily get cracked or damaged during extreme weather. This exterior layer on your roof prevents the rainwater from leaking into your ceiling.
They have an expiry date like all other furnishings in the house and need timely inspection and maintenance. If you notice any cracked or missing shingles, replace them as soon as possible.
4. Defective Skylight
The flat windows on your roof are known as skylights. They are a great source of natural light and ventilation. Unfortunately, skylights can also cause your roof to leak during the rainy season. But the good news is a leak from a skylight is super easy to identify and repair. If your skylight is not properly installed or sealed, it can break. The seal around the edges can decay over time and get cracked, allowing water to seep in.
You must check out the skylights after bad weather and inspect for cracks or loosely fitted glass. If necessary, you can seal the cracks using clear silicone or get it reinstalled by professional roofers.
5. Leaking Roof Vents
Those small pipes sticking out from the top of your roof are called roof vents. They are used to expel unnecessary heat and moisture from your house. The vents are fixed on the roof by installing flashings around them, which can break or crack in extreme weather. The damage can cause the water to get inside the roof vent and allow mould to build up.
If you see dark spots growing around your roof, it is time for you to get the exhaust system checked by an expert.
6. Condensation in Your Attic
In the uppermost section of your house, attics are trapped between indoor and outdoor temperatures. When condensation occurs and moisture builds up, poorly ventilated attics cause the condensed water to collect on pipes and drip onto the ceiling. Moreover, heavy rainfall makes the situation even worse.
You can identify the leak from your attic by looking out for mould or mildew. In addition, a musty odour originating from your attic is a sign that water has seeped inside. You shouldn’t ignore these signs, isolate your attic, or place a large ventilation fan to reduce condensation.
Hire Professional Roofers for Roof Repairs in Nottingham
Roof leaks are a sign of much larger problems. The danger of structural damage can get much higher if you ignore your leaking roof. The best way to prevent this is to inspect your roof and maintain it regularly.
But there’s not much you can do without professional assistance. You’ll need experienced roofers, like MC Roofing Expert, for any kind of roofing and guttering repairs, whether residential or commercial. You can contact them to get the most affordable prices for roof in Nottingham.