4 Most Common Causes of Roof Leaks in Fairfax

10/5/2015

Any roof can spring a leak, even a well maintained one. Fairfax and Northern Virginia suffers its fair share of rough weather. The question is: what now? Here are some common causes of roof leaks, and signs of potential damage.

1. Clogged gutters: gutters can become too clogged with leaves and debris to channel water away from your roofing and siding. When water can’t exit through your drainage system it will go somewhere else – probably somewhere you don’t want water. When water winds up flowing and pooling on your roofing, siding, or foundation, it can cause leaks in walls and ceilings.
2. Rotting Fascia: the fascia is the boards right under the edge of your roof that cover the eaves. The gutter is usually right below the fascia, which means that when a gutter clogs the fascia is often the first to take damage. If you see any rotting fascia at the edges of your roof, it’s an indication that water isn’t being drained correctly. Once a fascia board is compromised, it can leak water into the eaves of your home.
3. Failing Shingles: damaged shingles are a common cause of roof leaks. If shingles are warped, cracked, or peeling, then it may be time to replace your roof.
4. Damaged Flashing: when roof flashing ages, it can become brittle and cracked and fail to keep out the water. If you’d like to learn more about roof flashing, check out our blog entry about what roof flashing is, and how it works.

Something to keep in mind is that your homeowners insurance may cover roofing damage. Make sure to save all receipts, and to contact your insurance company about filing a claim. Also keep in mind that many roofing contractors will provide free inspections. If you have roofing damage, or questions about your roofing, call a qualified Fairfax roofing contractor at 703-455-9418 or contact us online.